Books, Affirmations, and Autism: A Conversation for Moms Like Us with Chelsea Bray

05/13/25 • 29 min

This episode is for every mom who’s ever cried in the Target parking lot after an IEP meeting. Chelsea Bray, a fellow NJ Mom who has her perfect son, Archie, gets real about her journey as an autism mom...from processing the diagnosis, finding her people, and realizing that parenting a neurodivergent kid isn’t about fixing them, it’s about seeing them. She shares the story behind her new children’s book that helps kids with autism feel celebrated, not sidelined. We talk about affirmations, grief, joy, and why inclusivity in kids’ books is everything. If you’re raising a beautifully unique kid and need a little hope and a whole lot of real talk—you’re in the right place.

Follow Chelsea on Instagram @adventuresdownautismavenue & @chelseabray_

To purchase Adventures Down Autism Avenue: CLICK HERE

Follow Chelsea on Instagram @adventuresdownautismavenue & @chelseabray_

To purchase Adventures Down Autism Avenue: CLICK HERE

Previous Episode

Beyond the Behavior Plan: Dr. Suzanne Goh on Holistic Autism Care

In this episode of the Inchstones podcast, host Sarah Kernion welcomes Dr. Suzanne Goh - neurologist, author, and founder of Cortica Care—for a compelling discussion on holistic and integrative approaches to autism care. Designed with behavior analysts and BCBAs in mind, this conversation delves into the role of genetic insights in case conceptualization, the value of strength-based and developmentally attuned programming, and the necessity of fostering family systems that support regulated, individualized growth. Dr. Goh underscores the importance of community scaffolding and clinician-parent collaboration in recognizing and nurturing the unique developmental trajectories of neurodivergent children. A must-listen for clinicians seeking to expand their lens beyond protocols and toward truly compassionate, whole-child care.

To find a Cortica Care ABA Center, visit: https://www.corticacare.com/locations

Link to my favorite book of Dr. Goh's: Magnificent Minds, The New Whole-Child Approach to Autism : Amazon

Next Episode

The Healing Power of Nature for Neurodivergent Kids: Empathy, Confidence, and Outdoor Learning with Amy Giannotti

Is your child melting down inside but magically calm near a puddle? You're not alone...and you're definitely going to want to listen to this episode.

Host Sarah Kernion teams up with outdoor education favorite human - Amy Giannotti - to dive deep into the magic of nature for neurodivergent kids. From sensory-soothing streams to water therapy disguised as puddle jumping, this episode explores how the great outdoors can calm chaos, spark curiosity, and teach empathy better than any classroom can.

Expect real talk, laughs, and a refreshing reminder that letting your kid roll in dirt might actually be a genius parenting move.