Unraveling PDA: A Conversation with Steph Curtis

Parents who find themselves on the path of raising a child with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), the journey can often feel like navigating uncharted territory. PDA, a profile within the autism spectrum, involves a child’s intense need to avoid everyday demands and expectations due to anxiety, not willfulness. This episode sheds light on the complexities of PDA, offering a beacon of understanding and support.

Joining us in this enlightening conversation is Steph Curtis, author and parent who has navigated the world of PDA with her daughter, Sasha. Steph brings us into her world, sharing the initial struggles, the pivotal moments of realization, and the strategies that have made a difference in her family's life. 

This episode is a deep dive into what PDA is, how it differs from other autism spectrum behaviors, and the importance of recognizing and understanding these differences.

Key Takeaways: 

• Understanding PDA [00:00:00]: Introduction to Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and its differentiation from other autism spectrum behaviors.
• Steph Curtis's Personal Journey [00:05:00]: Steph shares her initial challenges and the journey to understanding her daughter's PDA.
• Adaptive Strategies and Mindset Shifts [00:15:00]: Insights into the importance of flexibility and creativity in supporting a child with PDA.
• Navigating External Pressures and Advocacy [00:25:00]: Managing societal pressures and advocating for PDA awareness and support.
• Empowering Resources and Community Support [00:35:00]: Highlighting essential resources and community support for families navigating PDA.
• The Transformative Power of Understanding [00:45:00]: The importance of understanding and accepting your child's unique needs.
• A Hopeful Outlook for Families [00:55:00]: Offering hope and emphasizing the potential for children with PDA to thrive.

Additional Resources:

To further your understanding and find support on your journey with PDA, we recommend the following resources:

• Steph's Two Girls Blog - Steph Curtis shares her personal journey, strategies, and insights into parenting a child with PDA . 
• PDA in the Family- Steph’s new book about life after the lightbulb moment and parenting her PDA daughter 
• PDA Society - Offers comprehensive guides, resources, and community support for families and professionals (Website).
• Educators Experience of Pathological Demand Avoidance- It gives a really clear picture of what it is like to have PDA and some excellent ideas of how to help in school and college . 
• "Can I Tell You About Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome?" - A resource book told from the viewpoint of an 11-year-old girl, making it accessible for younger audiences.
• Calm the Chaos: A Fail-proof Roadmap for Parenting Even the Most Challenging Kids: While this book is not specifically about PDA or the experience, it is a guide to help parents navigate challenges from an empathetic and understanding point of view. 

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For those navigating the parenting journey with a child showing signs of PDA, this episode offers valuable insights, shared experiences, and hope. Remember, understanding, connection, and adaptation are key to fostering a nurturing environment for your child.

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