In this episode, Joshua is joined by Isabelle from PDA Perspective to explore what PDA (Persistent Drive for Autonomy) is and how it shapes everyday family life. Through her lived experience raising a daughter with a PDA profile of autism, Isabelle shares the diagnosis journey, the realities of low-demand parenting, navigating education, and the importance of trusting parental instincts. This is an honest conversation for parents, educators and anyone wanting to better understand PDA.

What We Discussed

- What PDA is and why many people now use the term Persistent Drive for Autonomy.

- Early signs that led Isabelle to seek an autism assessment.

- The diagnosis journey and the emotions that followed.

- How PDA has influenced family life and sibling relationships.

- Common misconceptions about PDA.

- Why low-demand parenting can be more effective than traditional approaches.

- Finding a school that understands and supports PDA.

- Considering homeschooling and flexible education pathways.

- The impact of PDA on work, routines and daily family life.

- Why Isabelle created PDA Perspective to support other families.

Resources & Links

PDA Society

https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/

PDA Perspective (Instagram)

https://www.instagram.com/pdaperspective/

Parent Teacher Interview Podcast (Instagram)

https://www.instagram.com/parent_teacher_interview_pod/

Music Credits

'Ember' by The Lakes via Uppbeat

'Green Leaf' by The Lakes via Uppbeat

Thanks for listening to the Parent Teacher Interview Podcast.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider following the show, leaving a rating or review, and sharing it with someone who may find it helpful.

Every child communicates differently. In this episode, we explore how creativity can become another pathway for children to express themselves, process emotions and build connection.

In this episode of the Parent Teacher Interview Podcast, Joshua sits down with registered Creative Arts Therapist Rebecca Iona to unpack what art therapy really is—and perhaps more importantly, what it isn't.

Together they explore how creativity can become a powerful tool for communication, emotional regulation and healing, particularly for children who struggle to express themselves verbally. Rebecca also shares practical insights into neuroaffirming practice, trauma-informed care and how parents and educators can create environments where children feel safe to be themselves.

Whether you're a parent, teacher or someone who works with children, this conversation offers practical ideas and a fresh perspective on supporting young people.

In this episode we discuss:

• What art therapy actually is (and what it isn't)
• Why creativity can help children communicate when words are difficult
• The difference between therapeutic art and art therapy
• How art therapy supports emotional regulation
• Neuroaffirming practice and supporting neurodivergent children
• Trauma-informed approaches in therapeutic settings
• Sensory needs and creating safe environments
• The importance of qualified Creative Arts Therapists
• Practical regulation tools for home, school and therapy
• The Māori concept of Takiwātanga ("in their own space and time")

Connect with Rebecca

🌿 Website
https://www.thearttherapist.co.nz/

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/thearttherapistnz/

Resources mentioned

ANZACATA (Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association)
https://www.anzacata.org/

Whitecliffe College (Creative Arts Therapy programme)
https://www.whitecliffe.ac.nz/

Connect with Parent Teacher Interview

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/parent_teacher_interview_pod/

🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

🎵 Music Credits

Intro Music
Ember – The Lakes (via Uppbeat)

Outro Music
Green Leaf – The Lakes (via Uppbeat)

What makes a teacher unforgettable?

In this episode of Parent Teacher Interview, Josh sits down with Deputy Principal Ethan Ford from Melbourne to explore the moments that truly shape a child's experience at school.

Drawing on years of classroom teaching and school leadership, Ethan shares why genuine relationships are at the heart of great education. From greeting students at the classroom door to understanding the story behind challenging behaviour, this conversation is a powerful reminder that the little things teachers do every day often leave the biggest impression.

Together, Josh and Ethan discuss the importance of consistency, creating a sense of belonging, supporting student wellbeing, and why being fully present for the children in front of us is one of the greatest gifts an educator can give.

Whether you're a teacher, school leader, pre-service teacher or parent, this episode offers practical insights and heartfelt reminders about the lasting impact we can have on the lives of young people.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Ethan's journey into primary school teaching and school leadership.
• Why relationships are the foundation of effective teaching.
• The importance of being present and creating positive daily interactions with students.
• Understanding behaviour through curiosity rather than judgement.
• Supporting children from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
• Why consistency helps children feel safe and ready to learn.
• The role of male teachers in primary education.
• Balancing student wellbeing with academic learning.
• Lessons from parenthood that have shaped Ethan's leadership and teaching.
• Advice for graduate teachers entering the profession.
• Why the smallest moments can have the biggest impact on a child's life.

If this episode resonated with you, please consider following Parent Teacher Interview, leaving a rating or review, and sharing the episode with a colleague, friend or fellow parent.

Follow the podcast on Instagram:
📱 @parent_teacher_interview_pod

Music Credits:
Ember – The Lakes (via Uppbeat)

Green Leaf – The Lakes (via Uppbeat)