149 | the EF toolkit: supporting autistic children with navigating life in a neuroaffirming way with Iris Wong

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay welcomes Iris Wong, a speech-language pathologist, executive functioning coach, and late diagnosed AuDHD mother with ND children to discuss the importance of executive functions. The conversation covers the definition of executive functions, how they manifest in daily life, and particularly how they impact autistic and ADHD children. They explore practical examples and strategies to support executive functioning skills, focusing on using special interests and leveraging AI tools. This episode emphasizes the importance of understanding individual brain patterns and provides resources for continued learning.00:00 Introduction to Executive Functions00:27 Meet Iris Wong: A Journey Through Neurodivergence01:11 Understanding Executive Functions in Daily Life01:29 Welcome to A Parenting Space Designed for You02:48 Iris Wong's Personal and Professional Background04:31 The Role of Executive Functions in Family Dynamics06:53 Challenges and Strategies for Parents08:45 Defining Executive Functions15:45 Executive Functions and PDA Profile18:33 Navigating Burnout and Executive Functions21:46 Real-Life Examples and Practical Advice23:25 Flexible Schooling and Self-Care Tasks25:26 Understanding Body Doubling in Schools25:51 Navigating Self-Care with EF Challenges26:43 Innovative Self-Care Strategies27:54 Supporting Neurodivergent Adults28:44 Accommodations for Executive Functioning29:43 Demand Avoidance and Overwhelm30:04 Personal Stories and EF Challenges31:55 Special Interests and EF Skills42:28 The Role of AI in Supporting EF45:14 Resources and Final ThoughtsRESOURCES⚡️ Follow Iris on Instagram⚡️ Learn about her resources >> www.eftoolkit.com⚡️ Check out her book all things EF >> https://akidsco.com/products/a-kids-book-about-executive-functioning⚡️ want to learn more about Dr. Tay's Whole Family Approach and current services offered? visit drtaylorday.com⚡️ join the Evolve Facebook community to participate in the episode Q+As >> facebook.com/groups/evolveautism⚡️ learn from me and submit your questions [could be featured on a future episode] >>Instagram @the.dr.tayTikTok @the.dr.tayLinkedIn @the-dr-tay*please note: PDA is referenced in this episode. it is a theorized profile of autism and not a clinical diagnosis. however, it has been a helpful conceptualization for many parents to learn about how their child's brain is wired. our knowledge of PDA is currently unfolding and I do my best to share up-to-date, balanced information. to learn more about PDA, please listen to episode 110