Shows
Sensory MattersNeurodivergent Head Cannons with Jamie from SensooliJamie and Loz chat about Neurodivergent Head Cannons.
2021-10-1528 min
Sensory MattersThe Autism Food Podcast Featuring Autistic DelicatessenIn this One-Off Sensory Matters Episode, we talk to Larrnell and Onikage from the podcast Autistic Delicatessen. Autistic Delicatessen is a podcast run by two autistic people, but unlike most, this podcast is not about Autism, it's about food!
Find out all about what inspired Larrnell and Onikage to create this podcast and all of the fun experiences they've had doing it... Including a musician who makes Gumbo on stage at his concerts!
2020-09-0940 minSensory MattersWhy Autistic Voices Are Important In The Media and How To Get Them Involved!In this special episode of the podcast, we talk to Lydia who is an autistic freelance journalist about her career and what it's like being Autistic and working in the media and journalism field.
Lydia and the Chew Crew (Joel, Lorraine and Jenny) also discuss why it's important to have Autistic voices in the media and how we can encourage them to enter the field!
Don't miss out on this fantastic episode!
2020-07-1542 minSensory MattersThe Best Way To Take The Anxiety Out Of Autistic Travel!Travel is stressful for most people, but for Autistic people, it can be even more anxiety-inducing. All the changes in routine, lights, smells and cultures can really have a profound effect on Autistic People.
Luckily Koloko and Stella have a solution!
Find out how they are revolutionising the travel industry to be more accepting of Autism and SPD and how it can change your life today!
2020-06-1632 minSensory MattersMoving Passed Autism Acceptance... What Comes Next?Welcome back to Sensory Matters!
The last couple of episodes have covered Autism Awareness and Autism Acceptance. This week we discuss moving passed Autism Acceptance... what comes next?
Joel has a theory that he calls "Autism Knowledge" where he discusses that the next step after Acceptance is Autism Knowledge. This is a radical theory about the complete integration of Autistic people into society.
Listen to find out how we can achieve that!
2020-04-0828 minSensory MattersThe Difference Between Autism Awareness & Autism Acceptance!What's the difference between Autism Awareness and Autism Acceptance? Why is it important?
This is what the Chew Crew discuss during the podcast this week, we discuss the intricacies around the two. Looking at the timelines of both, where they are placed within the community and whether you can have one without the other! We also end up talking about trucks - which is something you don't want to miss trust me!
2020-04-0130 min
Sensory MattersWhat's The Deal With Autism Awareness?People talk a lot about Autism Awareness, but its definition can often be murky and unclear. That's why in this week's podcast Lorraine and Joel try to answer the question What's the deal with Autism Awareness?
We look at the timeline of where it started, where it is now and where we see it going in the future!
We also talk about the best way to get your Autistic child ready for any transitions such as Christmas or packaging changes.
So join us as we explore Autism Awareness
2020-03-2551 minSensory MattersHow To Deal With Life And Anxiety During The CoronavirusWith all the focus on the Coronavirus, we bring you a special podcast. Anxiety is high and it’s often hard to follow and understand everything we are being told. We are all in this together and it’s amazing to see society pulling together.
Lorraine and Jenny discuss anxiety, mental health and self-isolation and offer some tips to get you through. For more help and support you can join our sensory support group on Facebook.
2020-03-1826 minSensory MattersThe Super Guide To Getting To Sleep And Snoozing Soundly!Sleep is a struggle for many Autistic and SPD people, whether it is getting to sleep or staying asleep. We all know that a good nights sleep is really important to have a productive day and Lorraine and Joel both have experience struggling with sleep.
So they have come together to discuss what helps them sleep and give you a guide to sleep so that you can find a way to help your sleep!!
2020-03-1141 min
Sensory MattersHow To Spot And Help Someone Who Is Self HarmingSelf-harm is a serious issue that can seriously affect people's mental health. Unfortunately in the past few years, it has become more and more common, and it keeps becoming more common.
Luckily some of the Chewigem team have first-hand experience with self-harm and are here to teach you how to spot and help someone who is self-harming.
Find out how to spot and help someone with is self-harming now
2020-03-0441 min
Sensory MattersThe Secret To Getting People With Intellectual Disabilities Into EmploymentOne of the biggest fears for parents who have children with intellectual disabilities is how to get them into employment.
This is an issue that Anthony At Your Service has been able to solve! They employee people with disabilities to make deliveries around their hometown. It is completely customisable to the employee and they can choose what they take and what they don't!
They also discuss what employers need to learn about getting people with intellectual disabilities into employment...
Are you ready to find out the secret too - Listen Now
2020-02-2641 minSensory MattersThe Essential Guide To Mental Health & RelationshipsBeing in a relationship when you struggle with your mental health can be challenging. Your partner might not understand why you do certain things or how to help you, that's why it's important to communicate and tell them about your struggles.
This week on the podcast we give you the essential guide to mental health & relationships so we can help you ease the stress.
Find out how to manoeuvre relationships with the essential guide to mental health & relationships now
2020-02-1231 minSensory MattersAre Mental Health Services Severely Letting Adults Down?This week on the podcast we talk about whether mental health services are severely letting adults down?
We know that good adult mental health is extremely important, but it can be hard to keep your mental health on track if the support isn't there.
Find out how we feel the government's mental health services are severely letting adults down and what we can do about it!
Listen to this podcast to find out where you can get help for your mental health and lots of fantastic tips and tricks to help you keep yo...2020-02-0545 min
Sensory MattersThe Best Ways To Help Your Child With Their Mental HealthWe all know that mental health is really important. However, it can be hard to know how to help your child with their mental health, this is because they might not be able to communicate what their mental health struggles feel like. For example, they might have a tummy ache or feel sick, and this can sometimes be a sign of mental health issues and anxiety.
That is why we have found the best ways to help your child with their mental health!
Don't miss out on this essential podcast on mental health because it c...2020-01-2930 min
Sensory MattersThe Communication Revolution That You Need To Hear About!This week on the podcast, we have found the communication revolution that you need to hear about!
We are talking about Nawmal - we know you probably haven't heard of it, but you're about to...
Find out all about how Nawmal was created and how it adapted to the Autism market!
This is the communication revolution that you need to hear about... SO DON'T MISS OUT!
2020-01-2237 minSensory MattersJoin The New Year's Mental Health RevolutionNew Year New Me! But sometimes that can be harder than it sounds... This can lead to struggles in mental health. So this year Chewigem is going to help with the new year's mental health revolution!
The 2nd Season of the Sensory Matters podcast is focusing on mental health and this first episode will give you lots of tips on how to maintain your mental health through January and the dreaded "Blue Monday".
Listen to find out our tips on how to make New Year Resolutions work for you and how to avoid all the...2020-01-1523 min
Sensory MattersThe Ultimate Christmas Survival Tips!With little over a week until Christmas day, we know that many people find it hard, that's why we've created the ultimate Christmas survival tips!
While many people enjoy Christmas, they can often find themselves getting into trouble or being stressed. Some people, like Joel, don't enjoy it at all and pretend it doesn't exist. Find out how Joel deals with the season's parties and expectations when he can't stand Christmas!
Also find out all about how to manage Dress Codes, food, expectations and most importantly money!
2019-12-1824 min
Sensory MattersFantastic Tips For Surviving The Festive SeasonChristmas is a difficult time for most people. In particular, those people on the spectrum or with SPD challenges. The lights all change and the sounds and smells are different, worst of all... there is no warning, it just happens. That's why the chew crew have created some fantastic tips for surviving the festive season this year!
Get your fantastic tips for surviving the festive season now
2019-12-1133 min
Sensory MattersHow To Be A Neurodiverse Superhero!Chris Bonnello is a novelist, writer & ex-teacher. If you listen to this podcast you have probably read or heard of his fantastic book Underdogs. You might also know him from his fantastic Facebook page: Autistic Not Weird!
It’s a story about neurodiverse superhero’s who are the only people left to save Britain. Find the synopsis below:
One million cloned soldiers. A nation imprisoned. A group of neurodiverse rebels fighting back.
Britain as we know it lies destroyed. In the aftermath of the most daring military coup in history, the surviving population is cr...2019-12-0440 min
Sensory MattersDoes TV Do a Good Job At Autism Representation?This week on the sensory matters show we discuss the question "Does Tv do a good job at autism representation?"
Atypical is Joel & Lorraine's favourite show! A Netflix show about an autistic teenager navigating a neurotypical world. We started chatting exclusively about the show but the podcast became more about representation as a whole.
Join us as we discuss a whole range of television shows about Autism and discuss which shows we love and which we hate. As we try to answer the question "Does TV do a good job at autism representation".
...2019-11-2737 min
Sensory MattersBreaking Down The 8 Senses With Lorraine & JennyHAPPY SPD MONTH! This week on the podcast, Lorraine and Jenny are breaking down the 8 senses.
This is part of our SPD knowledge pack which will give you lots of tips and tricks on dealing with SPD in your everyday life. In this podcast, we go through each sense and tell you what it feels like being hyper and hypo sensitive to each. As well as what you can do to make living with SPD easier!
Come join us breaking down the 8 senses now
2019-11-1927 min
Sensory MattersJust Being Jamie - A World Of Their OwnMeet Jamie Young, well most of you probably already know them as Lorraine's awesome child. It's been a while since we've heard from them, so it's time for a catch-up!
Since our last podcast, Jamie has come out as non-binary and has changed school. Their new academy has something different about it, listen to the podcast to find out.
Check out this Episode of the sensory matters to find out what it's like just being Jamie in a world of their own!
2019-11-1324 min
Sensory MattersAn Autistic's Guide To Being FunnyThis week on the podcast Jenny talks to Aspiecomic - Michael McCreary who gives us an Autistic's Guide To Being Funny!
Michael McCreary is a successful Canadian comedian, author and runs a fantastic Facebook page - Aspiecomic. In this podcast, Michael tells us all about his life and how he learned to be funny, as well as giving you tips on how you can be funny too!
Michael is a great example of an Autistic person following his dreams and passions and turning them into a reality!
2019-10-2137 min
Sensory MattersEverything You NEED To Know About DyspraxiaThis week is Dyspraxia Awareness week and in this podcast, you will find out everything you NEED to know about Dyspraxia!
Dyspraxia is a misunderstood and overlooked condition. Despite 1 in 6 people having it, a lot of people don't know much about it. That's why Joel & Lorraine are talking to Jenny about everything you need to know about Dyspraxia!
This is a fantastic episode full of knowledge and tips. It will help you understand Dyspraxic people and what we really go through!
Don't forget to check out our Dyspraxia Awareness Pack being released on 15/11/19...2019-10-1441 min
Sensory MattersTop Secrets You HAVE To Know About DyslexiaConfused about Dyslexia?
Dyslexia can be an often confusing and misunderstood condition with lots of conflicting information and harmful stereotypes surrounding it. Joel is here to help with the top secrets you HAVE to know about Dyslexia.
The clouds will disappear and Dyslexia will be clear as day after listening to this podcast!
2019-10-0732 min
Sensory MattersThe Fake Service Dog Epidemic You Need To Know About!We all know how helpful service dogs can be to people with disabilities, but due to lax laws and murky guidelines, people are getting away with using FAKE SERVICE DOGS!
Find out all about this epidemic and how to avoid all the scams looking to get the money out of your pocket in this week's podcast!
2019-09-3045 min
Sensory MattersAutism Passports - The Life Changing Document That You Probably Haven't Heard Of!This week on the podcast, Lorraine talks about Autism Passports. Autism Passports are the life-changing you probably haven't heard of.
This is an essential document for any Autistic Person or anyone with SPD, it will allow your life to become so much easier and remove a lot of the stress you'll find in daily life!
Listen to this podcast to find out all about these life-changing documents and how you can benefit from them!
As well as this we talk about Joel's podcast on Autism knowledge and the rise of Autism activists. Stress-Busting...2019-09-2334 min
Sensory MattersHow The Lack Of Autism Knowledge Is Harming The Autism Community!This week Jenny and Joel discuss how the lack of autism knowledge is harming the autism community.
Autism knowledge is an extension of the struggle to get autism awareness. Bitesize knowledge that is easy for people who are not connected to autism to understand is the key!
It also looks at how we can bridge the gap between adapting to live in a neurotypical world and focusing on how to help neurotypicals understand the Autism Community and it's intricacies!
A must-listen for anyone in the Autism community!
2019-09-1629 min
Sensory MattersHow To Help Autistic People Being Let Down By Mental Health Services!This week Lorraine and Jenny talk about how to help autistic people being let down by mental health services.
This is a serious issue within our community where a lot of autistic people are being let down by mental health services and not getting the help they need. This is leading to a mental health crisis (as Tom said in last weeks episode).
Lorraine and Jenny talk about how to deal with this crisis and the whole stigma surrounding mental health!
2019-09-0932 min
Sensory MattersIs There A Mental Health Crisis In The Autism Community?Is there a mental health crisis in the autism community?
Tom Henely thinks there is. He tells us all about what he thinks is causing it and how we can fix it!
Find Out More In This Week's Podcast!
2019-09-0237 min
Sensory MattersHow To Respond To Ignorant Comments About Autism!This week on the podcast, Jenny and Lorraine are discussing how to respond to ignorant comments about Autism. We know that it can be really hard not to get your back up when you hear comments like "Well you don't look autistic" or "You MUST be high functioning".
We decided to have a conversation around this topic to see just what the best way to respond would be. Usually, people say this kind of stuff with the best of intentions so it is really important to take a step back before responding.
2019-08-2631 min
Sensory MattersOn The Spectrum and Off To UniversityThis week Katy talks to us about being on the spectrum and off to university. If you haven't heard, our very own Katy has decided to go to university.
Jenny talks to her all about her worries and fears in terms of accommodation, scheduling and workload.
Find out all about Katy's hopes and worries when moving into accommodation, joining clubs, and having to settle into different routines while being on the spectrum and off to university.
We wish Katy all the best on her university journey. But she won't be gone from Chewigem c...2019-08-1943 min
Sensory MattersHow To Get Schools To Accept Sensory Aids!This week Jenny, Lorraine and Katy talk about how to get schools to accept sensory aids. In our community this is a common problem, there tend to be two types of schools. Either school think that sensory aids are a fantastic idea. They are completely on board with the idea of them. Or they are completely against and just say no.
If your school is in the latter category, you're probably thinking "how do I get the school to accept sensory aids?" You know your child needs them and will benefit but the school just can't see...2019-08-1238 min
Sensory MattersLiving In a Multigenerational Autistic FamilyThis week on the Podcast, Lorraine talks about what it's like living in a multigenerational autistic family.
Lorraine got her autism diagnosis recently. She talks to us about how her life has changed since then and how she knew. Having a child with Autism and working for Chewigem, she tells us how it helped her realise she was Autistic.
At the same time Lorraine got her autism diagnosis, her son Joe also got his. Which means that only her husband Dean is Neurotypical. Lorraine talks about how it is for him living in a multigenerational a...2019-08-0535 minSensory MattersEverything You Need To Know About Chewing & Oral Stims!This week on the podcast, The Chew Crew go in-depth into everything you need to know about chewing & oral stims.
Whether you're curious about what chew is right for you, how to get teachers on board, or how to make sure your child chews the right thing... This podcast is the podcast you need!
They also talk about the best way to deal with the summer heat that is still plaguing the UK and how to cope with sunscreen when you have sensory issues!
If you would like to know more about chewing i...2019-07-2939 minSensory MattersHow To Deal With The Change In School RoutineThis week Jenny and Lorraine talk about how to deal with the change in the school routine. The end of term can be hard for any child but for people on the spectrum, it's even harder once timetable changes come in. The changes can cause extreme anxiety. Lorraine knows this more than most and gives some great tips to help!
Lorraine and Jenny also talk about The Kiss Quotient and the Autism themes that run throughout the book. They also talk about whether listening to songs over and over is an Autism trait.
2019-07-2232 min
Sensory MattersIs Autism Awareness Actually Harming The Community?This week on the podcast, we ask is autism awareness actually harming the community?
This came up after an argument Joel made, which said that what we actually need is Autism Knowledge rather than awareness.
We also talk about Joseph Redford’s podcast, Lorraine’s big news story and of course, the heat!
2019-07-1534 minSensory MattersAre Autistic Organisations Accessible to all Autistics?This week on the Podcast we ask Joseph Redford "are Autistic Organisations accessible to all autistics?". This leads to a conversation about how to make Autistic organisations accessible to everyone instead of just part of the spectrum.
Joseph was diagnosed at 11, before that the doctors thought that he was deaf. But after his diagnosis, he learned to be able to thrive, rather than just survive thanks to the Autism community.
Hear all about how Joseph is trying to make an Autistic state and is working on the neurodivergent worker's manifesto. As well as all the...2019-07-0837 minSensory MattersIs The Autism Community Too Focused On Language?This week on the podcast The Chew Crew ask the question "is the autism community too focused on language?" This comes after a discussion during the SWAN Podcast last week saying how it's ok to admit that you didn't know any better at one point in time. As long as you learn from it.
This leads to the discussion of whether it's time to stop worrying so much about the language used around the Autistic Community and focus more on teaching the general public about the nuances of the specific surrounding Autism.
As well as...2019-07-0141 minSensory MattersAre Autistic Girls Being Set Up To Become Self Fulfilling Prophecies?
This week Jenny talks to Catriona from Swan and asks the question, are girls being set up to become self-fulfilling prophecies.
SWAN stands for Scottish Women's Autism Network, and as the name suggests, they are a network for Autistic Women based in Scotland but have connections all over the UK and beyond.
Catriona talks about how her life was affected by her autism in terms of feeling like her self-esteem was affected when she didn't fit in. One of the areas discussed is the importance placed on making friends in childhood. Catriona says that these efforts could be better placed in honing in...2019-06-2451 min
Sensory MattersIs Special Education Heading Towards a Cliff Edge?With cuts to funds. We ask is special education heading towards a cliff edge without a parachute?
SEND protests have been happening all over the country over the last few weeks and the chew crew discuss this news story as well as asking is mainstream education really the best option for children?
This comes after The Sun published an article about a child being "too autistic for mainstream and not autistic enough for a special school." This is a position Lorraine has found herself in before and gives some great insight too.
2019-06-1731 min
Sensory MattersAre You a Proud Autistic?This week on the podcast we are talking Autism Pride and what it means to be a proud autistic person. It's an event held across the country during June. This week we talk to Joseph, Kabie and Rachel. They talk about how to be an Autistic Advocate and all about the events.
These events are all about inclusion by Autistic people for Autistic people, you are free to do what you like (whether that is to participate or sit further away) and include yourself as much as you want.
To find out more about Autistic...2019-06-1034 min
Sensory Matters18 Weeks Parental Leave You're Missing Out On!This week, the chew crew talk about the 18 weeks parental leave you didn't know you had!
Also on the podcast, we discuss the interesting points that came up during last weeks podcast with Sheep Dog Says. Especially how it felt good to hear a dad's perspective on Autism.
Find last week's podcast here:
https://blog.chewigem.com/autistic-children-and-dealing-with-change/
Our sensory Matter this week surrounds service dogs and whether there is enough being done to regulate service dogs. They also discuss the advantages of having a service dog for people with disabilities.2019-06-0332 min
Sensory MattersAutistic Children and Dealing With Change!This week Sheep Dog Says talks about autistic children and dealing with change. Sheep Dog Says is a youtube channel where a family blogs about their journey with their autistic son Ollie.
This episode is full of some great anecdotes about literal thinking and all of the other aspects of raising an autistic child.
Find out all about Ollie's obsession with Minecraft and Pokemon, as well as autistic children dealing with change in school and how the family have dealt with that.
This is a brilliant podcast and you'll really fall in love...2019-05-2752 min
Sensory MattersAre Open Plan Schools The Future Of Education or Just a Hopeful Dream?This week on the podcast, The Chew Crew talk about whether open plan schools are the future of education. Listen to find out about this revolutionary concept and if it could really become a reality. Or is it really just a dream that could never work. Tell us if you think open plan schools are the future of education on facebook!
They also talk about last weeks podcast, discussing the great tips that it gave them and why they really enjoyed it.
Find The Podcast Here:
https://blog.chewigem.com/culture-competition-harming-your-children/
T...2019-05-2039 min
Sensory MattersIs a Culture Of Competition Harming Your Children? (Sensory Matters #61)This week on the podcast, Shelley Francis talks about if a culture of competition is harming your children.
Shelley Francis is an audiologist turned author. During her time as an audiologist. Shelley found that people with Auditory Processing Difficulties also had other Sensory Processing Difficulties as well.
She also found that there was an increase in sensitive children being sent to her practice. This led Shelley to write a book called "No Child Left Unwrapped: Understanding and Honoring The Gifts Every Child Is Born With."
Find Out More About Shelley Here:
...2019-05-1353 min
Sensory MattersHow To Help Autistic People Deal With Grief (Sensory Matters #60)This week the chew crew talk about how to help autistic people deal with grief. Grief is something that affects everyone in different ways. However, some Autistic people might find it difficult to identify or process grief. During this podcast, we give you effective ways to deal with grief and get through it.
The chew crew also discuss some interesting and exciting things going on in our community, including Richie from Awesometistic who has set a parent-led support group for autistic adults and FIGS who have started a petition about making the road to diagnosis easier for...2019-05-0643 min
Sensory MattersTop Tips To Help Your Special Needs Child Succeed At School!This week we have Steph Reed who gives us some top tips to help your special needs child succeed at school. Steph works as a Special Needs Co-ordinator as well as providing outreach for Special Needs children and schools.
Steph started her career teaching in mainstream education, while there she set up nurture groups before moving onto teaching in Autism specific schools. One of the main roles in her current job consists of looking at the specific needs of the child and the needs of the school and finding a middle ground. She does this by using...2019-04-2954 min
Sensory MattersAutism Left Undiagnosed As School Employs Nappy Changer (Episode 58)This week on the Podcast, Jenny and Lorraine discuss the introduction of nappy changers in schools and whether this will leave Autism undiagnosed for longer. As more children enter school not being able to grip a pencil, use cutlery and use the toilet. Will children on the spectrum be undiagnosed for longer?
2019-04-2228 min
Sensory MattersShould Autism Parents Listen to Autistic People's Experiences More? (Sensory Matters #57)Should Autism parents listen to Autistic people's experiences more, since they have been through it first hand?
This week we have Kelly on the Podcast. Kelly used to work as a speech therapist. She found that when she told people she was Autistic, they tended not to want to listen to her advice.
We also find out how she didn't realise that she was Autistic until her son was born. She then recognised traits from her childhood in him. When she was diagnosed she says she felt a sense of fulfilment and acceptance.
K...2019-04-1546 min
Sensory MattersHow To Deal With Illness When You're Autistic (Sensory Matters #56)This week on the podcast we talk about how to deal with illness when you're Autistic and out of routine. This came up because Lorraine has been ill for the last two weeks. She was having a hard time resting and kept having to be reminded.
It was also World Autism Awareness week and we talk about the "My Boy Blue" Instagram takeover that Lorraine and Jamie are a part of. We featured My Boy Blue on one of our very first podcasts which you can find here:
https://blog.chewigem.com/snapchat-activism-my-boy-blue/
...2019-04-0837 min
Sensory MattersIs Masking A Survival Instinct? (Sensory Matters #55)This week Jenny is talking to Andy about masking and whether it's a survival instinct. Andy runs his own youtube channel called Indieandy, which is amazing we highly suggest you check it out!
Andy continues discussing his childhood and how he was diagnosed with Autism quite early, therefore, making his life easier. They also discuss why he chose not to disclose his autism to his current employer and how youtube is a great place for Autism Advocacy.
2019-04-0141 min
Sensory MattersWhat Symbol Represents Autism Awareness Best? (Sensory Matters #54)This week on the podcast, The Chew Crew discuss what symbol represents autism awareness best. As many people know the puzzle piece has some negative connotations surrounding it. Over the years, many other symbols have popped up, but does this damage our cause and public recognition of it?
In your opinion, what symbol represents Autism Awareness best?
As well as this, The Chew Crew talk about last week's podcast on Independent Living and the Special Housing Facility Revolution.
To listen to last weeks podcast please go here:
https://blog.ch...2019-03-2534 min
Sensory MattersSpecial Facility Housing Revolution! (Sensory Matters #53)This week on the Podcast, Jenny is talking to Denise who runs First Place, a special facility housing complex to help autistic people have independent successful lives.
Denise tells us all about how she was told that her son should be institutionalised in a special facility housing institution. but when she went to look at the places she didn’t feel they were right for her son.
Soon after this, she started developing First Place, a special facility housing complex. It allows them to live independent and successful lives. It considers itself a new type of...2019-03-1844 min
Sensory MattersWas The DVLA Discriminatory Towards Autistic People? (SM #52)This week on the podcast, The Chew Crew are chatting about whether the DVLA was discriminatory towards autistic people or if they had a point. Find out who on the panel has declared their Autism to the DVLA and why they did it!
They also talk about the idea that some periods of the schooling journey are harder for autistics than others. Katy and Lorraine have different experiences with this and its a very interesting discussion!
The Chew Crew them talk about the great podcast last week featuring Saffron. They talk about their hot takes o...2019-03-1134 min
Sensory MattersKey Tips For Successful Diagnosis With Saffron (Sensory Matters #51)This week on the Sensory Matters Show, Jenny is talking to Saffron about her key tips for successful diagnosis.
During the show, we find out about Saffron's life and how she knew she had Aspergers. Even though the doctor's told her she didn't. We find out how some valuable advice helped her develop an essential skill when getting diagnosed.
If you are on the road to diagnosis or know someone who is this weeks podcast is full of key tips for a successful diagnosis!
2019-03-0447 min
Sensory MattersIs Everyone a Little Autistic Or Do They Have SPD? (Sensory Matters #50)This week on The Sensory Matters Show, the chew crew discuss everyone is a little bit autistic or do they all suffer from SPD. Is SPD more common than we think?
Jenny, Lorraine & Katy also talk about the latest news in the Sensory World.
Also, you get to find out the view our panel had about Autism before they were part of the community! There are a few misconceptions in there!
As well as all of this, they discuss whether technology is a positive tool for our kids, or is it leaving them...2019-02-2536 min
Sensory MattersSensory Tips & Tricks With Rachael Gartland (Sensory Matters #49)This week on Sensory Matters, Jenny talks to Rachael Gartland whos an Occupational Therapist full of interesting sensory tips & tricks. Rachael tells us how she always had a passion for helping children who were struggling, even as a child herself.
Rachael has a unique approach to her practice. She looks at what skills the child lacks rather than the condition as a whole. This allows her to really focus on making the child's life easier.
Find out lots of really good sensory tips & tricks to help your child with putting on socks, dealing with noisy...2019-02-1840 min
Sensory MattersBad Sensory Days & Work with The Chew Crew (Sensory Matters #48)This week on The Sensory Matters, The Chew Crew talk about how to get through a work day when it is also a bad sensory day. Jenny, Lorraine and Katy also talk about the latest news and controversies in the sensory world.
If you struggle to get through work when it's a bad sensory day, this has lots of tips and tricks!
2019-02-1132 min
Sensory MattersProud To Be An Aspie with Aspiecat (Sensory Matters #47)This week on Sensory Matters, Jenny is chatting to Tracey from Aspiecat who tells about all about being a proud aspie. Tacey was diagnosed with autism later in life when a social worker suggested that she might be. Before then it hadn't even crossed her mind!
Find out how it took her a long time to figure out what parts of her personality were the autism. However, once she figured this out she started to thrive and become a proud aspie activist.
Her message is a positive one all about working hard to understand yourself an...2019-02-0440 min
Sensory MattersEarly Intervention With Christian Hooker (Sensory Matters #46)This week on the Sensory Matters Podcast Jenny is chatting to Christian Hooker from Hale Autism who talks about early intervention. Christian was diagnosed with autism early on which enabled him to access mainstream school.
This helped him have no major issues in his early years. It just shows how important early intervention is. We find out all about Lego therapy and learning through play and possibly one of the cutest stories we have ever heard about a little boy and The Beatles.
Find out more about Christian here:
Hale Autism Facebook
2019-01-2842 min
Sensory MattersGeekClub Books with Jodi (Sensory Matters #45)This week on the Sensory Matters podcast Jenny is chatting to Jodi from Geekclub Books. Find out how her son Jonathan became a public speaker. And how by being in the right environment, he could blossom.
We also find out how Geekclub books give Autistic authors a platform to create and highlight their work to the general public.
Find out more about Jodi here:
GeekClub Books Facebook
GeekClub Books Website
2019-01-2137 min
Sensory MattersCelebrating Disability with Esi (Sensory Matters #44)This week on the Sensory Matters Show, Jenny chats to Esi from Celebrating Disability. Esi started out as an actor, she then went onto being a director and now works as a consultant. It's is a consultant firm for companies to help them understand disabilities. In this episode, she explains why inclusivity is so important. We also find out the 5 most patronising things people say about disabilities!
Find out more about Esi here:
Celebrating Disability Facebook
Celebrating Disability Website
For more tips about inclusivity read this article:
11 Tips For Teaching...2019-01-1449 min
Sensory MattersBody Builder Life with Jocelyn (Sensory Matters #43)This week on the Sensory Matters Podcast Jenny is chatting to Jocelyn the Autistic Body Builder. Diagnosed later in life, Jocelyn started to question if she herself was autistic while she was working with special needs children.
She tells us all about her early years moving from South Africa to the UK. Jocelyn also tells us about her tools for dealing with life in general. She gives us some great tips from her job as a TA in a Year 5 class and tells us how without her job she wouldn't be the person she is today.
We find o...2019-01-0735 min
Sensory MattersNavigating Autism with Margaux (Sensory Matters #42)This week Jenny talks to Margaux from Navigating Autism.
Margaux is an autism activist and artist. She loves cats and spending time with her mum. Margaux gives us her tips for travelling and sound sensitivity.
We find out why she doesn't like Autism Speaks. And she talks about her YouTube video on Jenny McCarthy! She is essentially a 30-year-old version of Jamie!!
Find Margaux Here:
Navigating Autism Website
Original Retrophiliac Youtube
2018-12-3140 min
Sensory MattersLorraine And Jamie's Christmas Tips Takeover (Sensory Matters #41)This week Lorraine and Jamie are taking over the Sensory Matters Show with a Christmas Special. What is know as "the most wonderful time of the year" certainly isn't for Jamie (incidentally Halloween is the most wonderful time of the year for her). They chat about how Christmas has been for them over the years. They also share some hints and tips of things that have worked well for them too.
2018-12-2442 min
Sensory MattersSensory Design With Alice Tennant (Sensory Matters #40)This week Jenny is chatting to Alice Tennant who tells us all about sensory design. Alice is mum to 4 children 2 of whom are on the spectrum. When her son was excluded from school and she ended up home educating him. She had to leave her job and decided to go back to university to study fine art.
Alice is very interested in sensory integration. She hopes to help use her design skills to help with sensory issues in public places like supermarkets.
To find more products to make a space more sensory inclusive follow this...2018-12-1742 min
Sensory MattersSensory Smart with Lindsey Biel (Sensory Matters #39)This week on the show Jenny is talking to Lindsey Biel who is the author of Raising a Sensory Smart Child. Listen to this podcast to find out lots of tips and tricks about creating a sensory diet. As well lots of interesting facts about Sensory Processing Disorder.
You really want to listen to this week's podcast, it really is helpful!
For more sensory tips go here:
Chewing – How Do I Stop My Child Doing It?
To find out more about Lindsey go here:
Sensory Smarts
2018-12-1040 min
Sensory MattersNeurodivergent Rebel with Christa Holmans (Sensory Matters #38)This week on the show we are chatting to Christa from Neurodivergent Rebel. Christa was diagnosed autistic aged 29 and tells her story and why she started Neurodivergent Rebel. Find out all about her RV, her partner, 4 dogs and used to be an ariel acrobat!
Find out more about Christa here:
NDR Facebook
2018-12-0346 min
Sensory MattersAutistic Not Weird with Chris Bonnello (Sensory Matters #37)This week on the podcast we are chatting to Chris Bonnello from Autistic Not Weird.
Chris was diagnosed with Aspergers as an adult. He is a former primary school teacher and now works as an author and speaker for Autistic Not Weird.
Chris was told he had a slightly odd personality as a child. He was diagnosed at age 25 and now delivers talks all around the world, he has even spoken at the Royal Sydney Opera House.
To find out more about Chris, go here:
Autistic Not Weird
2018-11-2653 min
Sensory MattersAddiction Theory, An Explanation with Lorraine Scott Young (Sensory Matters #36)Lorraine chats about addiction theory this week on the podcast. Lorraine talks about how self-harm is linked to addiction and OCD. She is finding help with some of these things through CBT.
Find out all about Lorraine's past with addictions and self-harm and how is she overcoming these difficulties.
If you're worried about any of the issues raised in this episode, please click the following links for support:
Samaritans
CALM
To find out more about Lorraine's Journey, listen to these podcasts:
Teenage Girls With Autism - Lorraine's Tips...2018-11-1946 min
Sensory MattersTourettes, OCD and Autism, How to Cope With Sophia (Sensory Matters 35)Sophia chats to Jenny this week on the Sensory Matters Podcast about Autism, Tourettes and OCD.
She tells us about her journey with Tourettes which started later in childhood. Sophia shares her useful coping strategies. Sophia is studying her Masters and in addition to all the above is telling us about her research.
She describes her research explaining how it includes a study on hypersensitivity to difference within the Autistic people!
2018-11-1240 min
Sensory Matters#doilookautisticyet, A Hashtag to Change The World With Hannah (Sensory Matters 34)In this podcast, we are chatting to Hannah who started #doilookautisticyet. Hannah has a story similar to many. Firstly, She was fobbed off as a child and unable to get an autism diagnosis.
We get to hear the reasons she was told she couldn't be autistic. These include "because she is a girl" and "because she booked her own doctors appointment!"
I think this podcast will resonate with lots of you. She is now diagnosed and as a result, has started to get involved in the online community. Most interestingly, find out how her campaign #do...2018-11-0547 min
Sensory MattersAutism Activist With Joely Colmer [My Fairy Jam Jar] (Sensory Matters #33)This week on The Sensory Matters Show Jenny is chatting to award-winning activist, Joley Colmer.
Joley is also an ambassador and author of the book My Fairy Jam Jar. She was diagnosed with autism age 2 but didn't find out she was autistic until she was 13. People regularly told Joely she can't be autistic and therefore went on to become an autism activist.
Thank you so much for doing this podcast Joely as it obviously became exhausting. But because autism is a special interest you were happy to give us your time. This shows exactly how...2018-10-2945 min
Sensory MattersFIGS - Who They Are and What They Do With Vicki MayThis week on the podcast, Jenny is chatting to Vicki May about FIGS (Fighting Inequality For Girls on the Spectrum Campaign Group). Vicki is Rory’s mum (I’m sure you all know Rory from our page) and is part of FIGS, their aim to achieve recognition and rally support and awareness of female Autism. Listen to find out how they might be able to help you, or how you can get involved in the movement too.
This is a must listen for anyone who is (or has) a female on the spectrum!
2018-10-2243 min
Sensory MattersSPD And Adulthood With 21 And Sensory (Sensory Matters #31)This week on the Sensory Matters Podcast Jenny is chatting to Emily, who is diagnosed with SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder) and has a blog "21 and Sensory".
You can find her over on Twitter and she is also a Chewigem Affiliate. She set her blog up to help other adults with Sensory Processing Disorder in the UK. She wanted to help them find information and other adults with the disorder. We find out about her diagnosis and how she feels she is probably autistic but not yet diagnosed.
Emily works a full-time job as a graphic...2018-10-1550 min
Sensory MattersAdult Diagnosis With Laura James (Sensory Matters #30)This week on the Sensory Matters Podcast Jenny is chatting to Laura James about her adult diagnosis. If you don't know who Laura James is then you've got to listen to this podcast! If you do know who Laura James is then you want to listen to this podcast!
Laura is an Author, columnist & journalist diagnosed with EDS, POTS & Autism. We find out how she got her adult diagnosis, her special interests and how lucky she is to sleep in her own room!
If you haven't read her book Odd Girl Out, then we would...2018-10-081h 04
Sensory MattersAdaptable Clothing, What Are They? How Can They Help? - Special Kids.Company (#29)Special Kids.Company is an amazing business that offers affordable, age-appropriate, adaptable clothing.
Sasha started the business after working out in the Middle East. When she lived there she lived next to a compound for kids with special needs. What shocked Sasha above all is how these children were integrated. All of this was too much for Sasha so she left her job. She took a year off to decide what to do and eventually opened Special Kids.Company.
Special Kids.Company works on what children need and parents want, they regularly take suggestions and...2018-10-0132 min
Sensory MattersSocial Stories With Dani The App Lady (Sensory Matters #28)This week on the Sensory Matters Podcast Jenny is chatting to Dani from Send App, which makes social stories.
Dani has a son who is autistic and found that she has been really well supported during diagnosis and afterward.
One of the things Dani used with her son was social stories. These worked really well but having 2 files (one for school and one for home) carrying this big heavy files weren’t practical. There had to be an easier way!
Having searched the internet for apps anything she did find was very expensive an...2018-09-2438 min
Sensory MattersRadio Star With Alex Manners (Sensory Matters #27)
This week on the Sensory Matters Podcast, Jenny is chatting to Alex Manners about his radio station.
We met Alex at the Autism Show in June where he was wearing a bright orange suit which matched Chewigem perfectly. Alex is an incredible young man who actually got the nickname Rainbow Man because of the bright and colourful suits he wears.
This inspired him to write stories about Rainbow Man for his children’s radio station. Alex collects football shirts and is working to make football grounds more accessible for Autistic people.
I really hope they do make this into a...2018-09-1742 min
Sensory MattersHome Education With Lorraine Scott Young (Sensory Matters #26)This week Jenny is chatting to our very own Lorraine about home education.
Lorraine has experienced lots of things over the years so it seemed obvious to chat to her about the time she home educated Jamie.
Jamie is now in full-time education but this has not been the case for most of her life. Lorraine chats about how she made the decision to home educate, how she went about it and some top tips for if you are going to be home educating!
For More About Home Education, Why Not C...2018-09-1037 min
Sensory MattersBest Tips Review – A Look Back (Sensory Matters #25)This week we are celebrating our 25th Episode of the Sensory Matters Podcast with a look back at our best tips!
We’ve had so many guests including, Anna Kennedy, Casper Dawn, Riko and Jayden Worthington!
We’d love to know your favourites. Also, if you have any suggestions for who we should get on the show?
We hope you’ve enjoyed the last 25 Episodes as we have some amazing guests coming up in the next 25.
For Even More Tips And Resources, Become A VIC. Find Out More Here:
B...2018-09-0351 min
Sensory MattersGuerilla Aspie With Paul Wady (Sensory Matters #24)This week on Sensory Matters Jenny chats to the Guerilla Aspie, Paul Wady. We met Paul at the Autism Show back in June. He has recently had his show on at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.
Paul was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 41. Before his diagnosis, he had a skill set that he never ever used. Since diagnosis, he has started to use his creative side which has led him to write the Guerilla Aspie Handbook which he has also taken to the stage and start a Theatre Company called Stealth Aspie Theatre Company.
Th...2018-08-2654 min
Sensory MattersAutism Myths With Jamie Young (Sensory Matters #23)20-08-2018
This week on Sensory Matters Jenny chats to our very own Jamie about Autism myths.
“she’s perfect don’t forget that” (listen and you’ll get it)
Jamie tells us a little about her journey and how she feels about being diagnosed as autistic. She doesn’t care if she’s autistic or not as she is just her.
Chatting about some autism myths she tells us something that she hears people say that gets her really angry and how she’d rather have Autism than be dead!
She talks about...2018-08-2039 min
Sensory MattersPTSD Tips With Angel Louise (Sensory Matters #22)This week on The Sensory Matters Show Jenny is chatting to Angel one of our VIC’s who has PTSD. Angel spotted a post in our sensory support group where a child had been told that Chewigem’s were for babies. She felt so strongly about this that she went live in the support group to reach out and show this child that Chewigem’s are for everyone. It was such a moving and heartwarming video that really touched us all and we felt she would be great to have on the show.
In this episode, we find o...2018-08-131h 01
Sensory MattersPregnant And Autistic – Lana Grant (Sensory Matters #21)This week on The Sensory Matters Podcast Jenny chats to Lana Grant about being pregnant when you have ASD.
Lana is an Autistic mum to 6 kids, 3 with autism. She also runs her own Autism Consultancy.
Lana knew she was different from a young age and felt she was always 3 steps behind everyone else socially. Lana wasn’t asked if she was on the spectrum until her son was diagnosed with Aspergers, and then she realised.
Specialising in female autism Lana gives some great tips especially about pregnancy, birth, and motherhood. She has written a b...2018-08-0649 min
Sensory MattersGymnastics and ASD With Claire Larkins (Sensory Matters #19)This week on Sensory Matters Jenny chats to Claire Larkins whos son Tom is autistic and also completes in the National Gymnastics Team. This all came from him hanging from a door frame and a doctors suggestion.
Claire is an autism mum just like most of us and you’ll really relate to her story. Like everyone, they have good and bad days. Tom has always wanted sensory input and his sensory issues were very bad in school. As with lots of us, he has issues with food and that’s where his SPD was picked up at a...2018-07-2343 min
Sensory MattersCooperative Learning, How It Works! With Karen Dammer (Sensory Matters #18)This week on Sensory Matters Jenny chats to Karen Dammer who is an Independent Education Consultant. Karen teaches cooperative learning across the UK, this is a way of engaging lots of kids and getting the best out of them. We find out how she makes sure every child is engaged and how they are all different.
You’ll get some tips as parents about how you can have a conversation with your teachers and tips on how to approach teachers and get the best out of them. This really is an amazing podcast. Karen tells us the mo...2018-07-191h 01
Sensory MattersPositivity When You Have A Disability With “Bee” Crisp (Sensory Matters #17)This week Jenny talks to Bee about positivity when you have a disability.
Bee runs two Facebook pages as well as doing many different things!
Very strange as when this was filmed when Bee was non-verbal. She has worked so hard and currently has her speech back which is amazing.
Her mum was her voice for this so bare with some of the silences … but you can learn a lot from this young lady about being positive x
To Find Out More About Bee Follow Her On Youtube Below:
...2018-07-1953 min
Sensory MattersWheelchair Football With Luke Murphy (Sensory Matters #16)This week on Sensory Matters we hear from Luke Murphy, Luke plays wheelchair football, is diagnosed with ADHD and EDS.
We find out how transitioning and the change in hormones triggered the condition when he was just 18 and means he needs to use a wheelchair.
Find out how he dislocated his shoulder deboning a chicken at college when he planned on being a chef.
Unfortunately, this meant he was asked to leave college due to his health. Luke talks about how the online community helped him through this especially Instagram.
If...2018-07-1942 min
Sensory MattersAutistic Family – Kate Gasser (Sensory Matters #15)This week Jenny chats to Kate from Girls Autistic Journey, who talks about her autistic family.
Kate tells us all about her autistic family. How her daughter Ivy was first diagnosed, subsequently her son Leon and lastly how her husband came to the realisation that he had ASD too.
Kate’s journey is pretty similar to my own and we became friends whilst chatting about residential schools and our girls.
She also has some great tips!
Find Out More About Kate On Her Facebook Page “Girls Autistic Journey”:
Girls...2018-07-191h 14
Sensory MattersSensory Diet, What Is It? With Katy (Sensory Matters #14)This week Jenny talks to the amazing Katy from invisible i, discusses sensory diet, what is it and how it helps. She also shares her amazing tips with us. She is such a shining example of how different does not mean less and that all things are possible.
Since this recording Katy is has become an official member of Chewigem and we are thrilled to have her.
Find Out More About Healthy Sensory Habits Here:
Chewing In School
How To Choose The Right Sensory Accessory Or Device For Your C...2018-06-2100 min
Sensory MattersLGBT Tips With Casper (Sensory Matters #13)This week Jenny talks to Casper all things sensory as well as his tips for LGBT issues and ‘coming out’. He has some practical solutions for various challenges people with sensory challenges come across and shares those with Jenny. Casper also gives us tips for dealing with anxiety and ways that help him calm down.
Enjoy!
Find Out More About LGBT Issues In This Article:
The Overlap Between Autism And The Trans Community
Find Casper On His Youtube Channel “Flappy Hands And Stims” and on Chewigem TV:
Flap...2018-06-1400 min
Sensory MattersBeing Non-Binary And Being Autistic, Is There A Link? With Luke Armatige (Sensory Matters #12)
This week Jenny talks to Luke who is doing his Masters on the link between being non binary and autistic. We hear all about the life of an autistic trans person as well as his research into the possible link between autistic people being more likely to be non-binary.
Find out all about living as a young trans autistic person, from someone who lives it!
This is an extremely interesting episode for everyone to watch (especially if you are non binary or autistic)!
Find Out More About This Topic In The Fol...2018-06-0700 min
Sensory MattersPDA, What Is It And What Are Helpful Strategies? With Riko (Sensory Matters #11)This week Jenny chats to Riko an advocate for PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) and ASD.
First of all, Riko tells us about the fight between the two and how Pathological Demand Avoidance usually wins. Interestingly she talks about manages to override her thought process do everyday things like the dishes.
Similarly, Riko tells us about some tips on dealing with both ASD and Pathological Demand Avoidance. Lastly, Riko tells us the difference between Pathological Demand Avoidance & Autism and how autism craves routine yet PDA is triggered by this and how you can deal with it.2018-05-3100 min
Sensory MattersAnxiety Tips With Jayden Worthington (Sensory Matters #10)**This Weeks Episode contains talk of self-harm, depression and anxiety**
This week Jenny chats to Jayden Worthington about tips with dealing with anxiety, among other issues.
Jayden chats openly about his childhood and how he struggled in middle school. We hear about how he initially came out to his parents after a tough time dealing with self-harm, depression and anxiety and hoped that everything would change. Unfortunately, nothing did until he realised that actually, he was trans. We get to hear about how important it is to have someone to trust that is o...2018-05-2400 min
Sensory MattersSleep Tips & Fidgetbum With Mel Woods (Sensory Matters #9)
In this episode of Sensory Matters, Jenny talks to Mel Wood, the creator of Fidgetbum, a product that helps with sleep. We hear the story about how the product came about and how it helps with Sensory Sleep Issues
Most noteworthy, Mel gives us tricks for a better, more effective bedtime routine.
Do Not Miss This Episode!
For more tips, tricks and stories about bedtime routines, why not check out the links below:
Relieving The Pressure: How Weighted Blankets Can Solve Nighttime Problems
Night Time Chewing
Check out Fidgetbum on their Faceb...2018-05-1700 min
Sensory MattersChewing Through An OT’s Eyes With Saskia Grassie (Sensory Matters #8)This week Jenny chats to Saskia, a children’s Occupational Therapist who specialises in chewing, she is a fountain of knowledge.
It’s really worth listening to this one. Saskia explains how she finds out if an oral input is productive or counterproductive for a child. Another thing she tells us is all about the strategies she uses for children, including secret strategies. Finally, She also gives great advice and tips on how to approach school about chewing in school and using Chewigem’s in school.
For more tips, tricks and stories about strategie...2018-05-1000 min
Sensory MattersAutism Hero Awards and Autism’s Got Talent with Anna Kennedy (Sensory Matters #7)This week Jenny was chatting to Anna Kennedy the founder of the Autism Hero Awards. Anna is such an amazing lady who has even got an OBE from the Queen herself!
She has 2 boys on the spectrum and she set up a school because there was nowhere for her to go. Find out all about the challenges of opening up and building a school from scratch.
Anna then set up a charity which develops and delivers training, legal advice, helpline, social media, roadshows and talks around the UK. The charity raises awareness of the challenges...2018-05-0300 min
Sensory MattersPuberty And Autism With Lorraine Scott Young (Sensory Matters #6)This week on the Sensory Matters Show Jenny interviews Lorraine about periods. Having gone through it all with Jamie, Lorraine shares her experience and also her tips for an autistic girl going through puberty. So if you have a girl who you think maybe getting ready to start her periods this is one to watch.
As Lorraine says Preparation is so important!
For more tips, tricks and stories on this topic, why not check out the links below:
3 Top Tips And More For Helping Boys With Additional Needs Through Puberty
2018-04-2600 min