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In this episode, DJ chats with Jennifer Celeste Briggs, author of Watching Sarah Rise, about her heartfelt journey raising her daughter Sarah, diagnosed with autism at four and a half. Jennifer, a Pittsburgh mom with a BA from Swarthmore College, shares how she turned challenges into triumphs using the Son-Rise Program—a loving, child-centered approach she dubbed "Sarah-Rise." Trained at the Autism Treatment Center of America, she built a volunteer network to spark Sarah’s social skills, speech, and eye contact through therapeutic play. Jennifer dives into the power of embracing your child’s interests, training volunteers like a pro, and leaning on community support. Her tips? Stay present and open-minded! Check out her book and resources on her website or at bookstores for inspiration. Perfect for parents of young kids navigating autism or other neurodiversities,, this episode is packed with hope, practical advice, and a reminder you’re not alone on this journey!

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Time Stamps
3:36 – Jennifer shares why she trained at the Autism Treatment Center for a Son-Rise Program—hope for autism parents!
5:32 – Jennifer talks tapping community volunteers—a must for your kiddo’s village!
8:53 – Jennifer explains training volunteers to join Sarah’s play, boosting her interests—pure gold for connection!
25:53 – DJ says journal your kid’s triggers and wins—key for understanding your little one!

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Find DJ’s Books “Roman is Bigger,” “Roman is a Bigger Brother,” and “Oscar’s True Friends” on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes&Noble, Bookshop.org, and Walmart.

Contact Jennifer Celeste Briggs

Website: https://www.watchingsarahrise.com/bio/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifercelestebriggsauthor/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenniferbriggsauthor

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Building Your Village: How Volunteers Transform Autism Parenting with Jennifer Celeste Briggs

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