What happens after an autism diagnosis?

In this deeply moving episode of Just Your Normal Missfit, host Ann Thomas speaks with Divya Singh, mother, educator and autism advocate, about raising her son Ayushman, whose journey began with rare infantile spasms before he was later diagnosed with autism.

Divya shares how her family moved beyond searching for answers and instead focused on understanding Ayushman’s strengths, building routines, embracing communication in different forms, and creating an environment where he could thrive.

Together, they discuss:
•⁠ ⁠Early autism signs parents should notice
•⁠ ⁠Infantile spasms and developmental regression
•⁠ ⁠Why autism isn’t something to “fix”
•⁠ ⁠Sensory needs, stimming and meltdowns
•⁠ ⁠Communication beyond spoken language
•⁠ ⁠Supporting older autistic children and teenagers
•⁠ ⁠The importance of family support
•⁠ ⁠Dealing with judgment, guilt and burnout
•⁠ ⁠Building independence instead of chasing perfection
•⁠ ⁠Why society needs empathy—not sympathy

This conversation is filled with practical insights, honest reflections and hope for parents, caregivers, educators and anyone who wants to better understand autism.