Non Linear Learning - Rethinking Education for Neurodivergent Learners

Author: Dr. Vaish Sarathy

Where we raise the bar on Education for children with a disability. Educating a child with a disability isn't for the faint of heart, and if you're a parent or educator who refuses to give up on your child's potential, you're in the right place. Hosted by TEDx speaker and Ph.D. Chemist Dr. Vaish Sarathy [mom to a non-speaking Autistic teen with Down syndrome], this podcast offers a bold new way to support your child's learning, regulation, and independence without burnout or arbitrary busy work. Together we explore how to: - Break learning barriers so your child with Autism / Down Syndrome / ADHD can learn complex Math and Science - Make teaching and learning at home a flow state - Support brain body health with practical, science-backed tools - Use Non Linear Education strategies to unlock growth in ways traditional systems never could Hear from top educators, researchers, and self-advocates. And most importantly, believe again: in your child, and in yourself.
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Language: en

Genres: Education for Kids, Kids & Family, Parenting

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198 How Understanding Apraxia changes your child's Education - with Dana Johnson
Episode 198
Thursday, 27 November, 2025

I first spoke with Dana Johnson nearly 4 years ago, and that conversation completely changed how I saw vision and learning. I call it my "ocular motor awakening" when I truly understood that vision has three components, and only one of them is corrected by glasses. Dana is the co-creator of the Spellers Method and the founder of multiple centers dedicated to helping non-speaking individuals communicate and learn with purpose. As both an occupational therapist (OT) and a Spellers Method practitioner, she brings a unique approach to supporting individuals with autism, apraxia, dyspraxia, and sensory-motor differences. In this episode, we talk about the power of purposeful motor skills, breaking down barriers for non-speakers, and what real communication means. Key Takeaways: Vision isn't just about eyesight it's about how the brain processes what we see. Apraxia is a motor planning challenge, not a cognitive one. Communication is possible when we focus on purposeful motor skills. What does right support look like? Get in Touch: 👉 Learn more about Dana Johnson's work at Spellers Method Tampa 👉 Connect with Dr. Vaish Sarathy on Instagram: @drvaishsarathy