Harmony in
Neurodiversity
THE BLOG
Welcome to Harmony in Neurodiversity, a blog dedicated to exploring the profound impact of music and positive parenting strategies on the lives of neurodivergent individuals. Join Samantha, a board-certified Neurologic Music Therapy fellow and a passionate Positive Discipline Parent Educator, as she shares her expertise in leveraging the power of music and effective parenting approaches to support and empower neurodiverse communities.
In her blog posts, Samantha delves into the intricate connections between music and the brain. She explores how specific musical elements and interventions can enhance cognitive functions, regulate emotions, improve communication, and promote social interaction among neurodivergent individuals. Through insightful articles and case studies, she demonstrates how rhythm, melody, and lyrics can serve as powerful tools for therapeutic interventions, fostering growth and self-expression.
Positive Discipline Parenting Strategies:
Drawing from her expertise as a Positive Discipline Parent Educator, Samantha sheds light on nurturing positive relationships between parents and neurodivergent children. Her blog offers practical advice, evidence-based strategies, and real-life anecdotes that empower parents and caregivers to cultivate respectful, encouraging, and effective parenting techniques. From setting clear boundaries to fostering a supportive environment, Samantha guides readers in navigating the challenges and joys of parenting neurodiverse children.
Exploring Intersectionality:
Samantha doesn't limit her discussions to singular approaches. Instead, she delves into the intersectionality of Neurologic Music Therapy and Positive Discipline Parenting, illustrating how these methodologies complement each other. Through her insightful content, she showcases how the harmonious integration of music-based interventions and positive parenting strategies can create holistic support systems for neurodivergent individuals, promoting their well-being and personal growth.
Community Engagement and Resources:
Additionally, Samantha fosters a vibrant online community where readers can engage, share experiences, and seek advice. She curates a wealth of resources, including recommended readings, workshops, and practical tools, empowering her audience to implement valuable insights into their lives effectively.
Why Your Neurodivergent Child Melts Down After School—and What It Really Means
The other day my son came home from school and had a meltdown. All I did was ask him a question. Was I doing something wrong at home? Why was he having great days at school and then coming home and having meltdowns?
If you've ever had these questions, you aren't alone.
This is something I hear from parents all the time:
“He holds it together all day, but the second he sees me, it’s like a switch flips.”
Bryson Tarbet, a former elementary music teacher and guest on episode 94 of the Every Brain is Different podcast, described this experience from the perspective of a neurodivergent child:
“I did everything I could to behave during school, but the moment the car door shut, I’d fall apart. I was just done masking. I had nothing left to give.”
Meltdowns at home aren’t a sign that your parenting is broken. They’re often a sign that your child has spent all day meeting expectations that didn’t take their sensory or emotional needs into account. You are their safe place. Because of that they feel safe enough to let their mask go.
So what can you do?
Start by shifting your lens from “How do I stop this?” to “How can I help them feel safe and seen right now?”
That might look like:
Offering quiet time and a snack before talking
Skipping after-school questions and letting them decompress
Using co-regulation tools like calming music or a weighted blanket
And if you’re still feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what to do in the moment, I’d love to invite you to my next Parenting Power Hour. It’s a free online gathering where we talk about what’s going on in your home and walk through strategies that actually work for your neurodivergent child.
We meet the second Thursday of every month from 12:45–1:45 p.m. MT.
Reserve your spot at everybrainisdifferent.com.
