This episode explores the Autism Spectrum in early childhood, with a focus on early identification, social attention and communication differences, and sensory processing.

Learn practical strategies to support regulation and connection at home, plus tips for neurodivergent parenting, language variation, and getting referrals.

A note: PDA is discussed as one context among others, but the core focus remains on understanding differences and supporting your child.

Key Takeaways:

• Autism Spectrum in early childhood presents with diverse social attention and communication patterns, including variations in eye contact, joint attention, and language development (spoken, non-speaking, echolalia, hyperlexia).
• Sensory differences drive behavior: textures, sounds, movement, water, and feeding sensitivities—understanding sensory processing leads to practical regulation strategies.
• Autism Meltdowns are signals of overwhelm; focus on co-regulation and predictable routines to reduce escalation and support regulation.
• Early identification and advocacy matter: use strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming language, document signs, and pursue referrals to access appropriate services.

🔗 RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Early Autism Identification Guide/Workbook

Explore these topics on your favorite player:

• ⚡ Regulation & Safety: Understand why PDA is a Nervous System Response here.
• 🗣️ PDA Foundations: Master the shift to Declarative Language & Safety here.
• 🏫 Education & Advocacy: Navigating masking and School Refusal here.
• 🧭 New to the Spectrum? Check out our latest episodes on the Autism Spectrum to find your path forward.

Text me and tell me- What do you want to hear for future episodes?

Support the show

✨ Raising PDA Community: Join the Waitlist for wraparound support and an exclusive discount to get your started! (We open again in March 2026!)

✨ Join Our Supportive Community PDA Motherhood (for mothers)
If you're a neurodivergent mother, this space is for you. You don’t have to walk this path alone. Come join us in the PDA Motherhood community—a safe, supportive space where you can unmask, reconnect, and rediscover who you truly are, separate from the demands of parenting.
Join us here

✨ Free PDA Language Guide: FREE GUIDE

You are not failing, and your child is not broken. If you're ready to establish deeper foundations around burnout and sustainability, visit chantalhewitt.com for more resources and 1:1 support.

About the Show: Chantal Hewitt provides neuroaffirming strategies for Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Autism. We help families navigate autistic burnout, family wellbeing and sibling dynamics, challenging behaviour, school refusal and autism meltdowns using low-demand parenting.

Watch on Youtube! 📺 @chantal.hewitt