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.
How to Stop a Meltdown Before It Starts
Using the Distract and Redirect Strategy with Neurodivergent Kids
If you’re parenting a child with ADHD or autism, you probably know the feeling: you're out running errands or playing a board game at home, and suddenly you can sense it. A meltdown is coming.
Your child is overwhelmed, frustrated, overstimulated, or all three. You're scrambling to figure out what to do before things spiral.
One of the tools I turn to again and again in these moments is called Distract and Redirect.
This Positive Discipline strategy is exactly what it sounds like: gently shifting your child’s attention from an escalating situation to something more engaging, calming, or appropriate. It’s not bribing, avoiding the issue, or punishing.
It's skill-building.
Here’s how it works:
When your toddler starts grabbing items off the shelf at the store, instead of saying, “Stop that,” you can try, “Hey, can you help me find the red apples?”
When your child gets frustrated mid-board game, you can suggest a silly dance break or a quick walk before returning to the activity.
The goal is to interrupt the emotional escalation before it tips into a full meltdown.
Why this strategy is especially effective for neurodivergent kids:
It supports emotional regulation in real time
It builds trust and connection instead of shame.
It helps kids practice better decision-making without relying on punishment.
You’re not ignoring behavior, you’re guiding it.
You’re not stopping emotions; you’re creating space to handle them.
Most importantly, you’re reminding your child that they’re not alone in figuring it out. You’re right there with them.
For more information about distraction and redirection, check out episode 105 of the Every Brain is Different podcast.
