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Raising Autistic Disciples

Hey there! Are you a parent, caregiver, or friend of someone on the autistic spectrum? Do you also desire to steward, raise, and encourage them to love and follow Jesus? If so, you're in the right place!

We believe that the gospel is for everyone, including our neurodiverse children. We know that raising children on the spectrum comes with its unique challenges and that discipleship methods may need to look different. That's why we're here to equip and encourage you on your journey to raising autistic disciples who know, love, and follow Jesus.

We would love to connect with you and hear your story. If you have any questions or just want to say hi, please do not hesitate to email us at raisingautisticdisciples@gmail.com.

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#32
Monday · 35 min
32: Autism & Healing Series: Can God vs. Will God
Can God heal autism? And if God can, does that mean He has promised that He will? In Part 1 of this four-part Autism & Healing series, Larah wrestles with the difference between God’s ability and God’s intention—and why that distinction matters for Christian parents raising autistic children. We’ll look at what Scripture allows us to be certain about, where faithful theology may require us to say “I don’t know,” and why accepting, supporting, and accommodating an autistic child is not evidence of deficient faith. The episode ultimately lands here: I am more theologically certain about the Great Commission than I am about whether God intends to heal my son’s autism this side of eternity. One is explicitly commanded. The other is not explicitly promised. God gets the outcome. I get the assignment. Scriptures referenced: Deuteronomy 29:29; Psalm 115:3; Daniel 3; Daniel 4:35; Isaiah 53:5; Matthew 28:18–20; John 5; John 9; John 11; Acts 12; Romans 8; 2 Corinthians 12; 1 Peter 2:24. Study it for yourself: What does Scripture explicitly say? What has God actually promised? What am I assuming? Where am I confusing what God can do with what God has promised to do? Next in the series: What I DO Pray For. ______ 📚 Letters to Lindsey: Seeing Your Child's Autism Diagnosis Through a Gospel Lens 📚 How to Advocate & Stay Christian 📺 Minno — Get a free 7-day trial with code RAD 🛍️ Larah’s Amazon Picks 👕 RAD Merch ✍️ Read RAD on Substack
#31
September 14 · 35 min
31: The Worst Meltdown Ever & the Road That Led There
Big idea: The meltdown gives us information, but so does the road behind it. If we only study the point of collision, we may miss what our autistic kids were communicating long before they had the words to tell us. Sometimes the meltdown is the first thing everyone notices—but it may not be where the story started. In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, Larah shares one of Graham’s most memorable meltdowns from the early years after his diagnosis: a simple change in the Sunday morning plan that became far more than a quick walk back to the car. What looked like a sudden explosion was actually an autistic child in deep distress, unable to communicate what his body and nervous system were experiencing. That experience became an important lesson: don’t only study the collision. Learn the road that led there. For parents, church leaders, grandparents, and anyone discipling an autistic child, this episode explores how curiosity, observation, and biblical discernment can help us distinguish between rebellion, overwhelm, weakness, distress, and genuine behavior that needs correction. Understanding behavior is not the same thing as excusing behavior. Faithful discipleship requires knowing the child well enough to respond with the right kind of care. Larah also walks through 1 Thessalonians 5:14—“admonish the idle, comfort the discouraged, help the weak, be patient with everyone”—as a framework for recognizing that different conditions require different responses. Sometimes an autistic child needs correction. Sometimes they need comfort. Sometimes they need help. And in every case, they need patient, discerning love. You’ll hear practical questions like: What does my child look like before they become overwhelmed? What happens when plans unexpectedly change? What environments require more effort from them? What happens to communication as stress increases? When does more language stop helping and become additional input? And what patterns can I learn now that may eventually help my child recognize and communicate their own needs? The goal isn’t to predict every meltdown or become omniscient. Only God is. The goal is to become observant—to learn the child God has entrusted to you so that you can shepherd them faithfully toward Christlikeness. Scriptures discussed: 1 Thessalonians 5:14, James 1:19, Proverbs 18:13, Proverbs 20:5, and John 10. Resources Mentioned: Find the Letters to Lindsey: Seeing Your Child's Autism Diagnosis through a Gospel Lens on Amazon by clicking here: amazon.com/dp/B0FS87WY24.
#30
August 31 · 46 min
30: BIG Behaviors… Where Did That Come From?
Try Minno Free for 7 Days Want to make a change in what your kids are consuming? Get a free 7-day trial of Minno using my promo code >>> RAD. CLICK HERE ______ When your autistic child suddenly starts using extreme language, explosive phrases, or emotional scripts that seem to come out of nowhere, there’s a question worth asking before assuming the behavior itself is the whole problem: Where did they learn it? In our house, we discovered Graham wasn’t just watching characters—he was learning from them. He was borrowing their words, tone, and emotional responses and applying those scripts to real-life situations. That realization eventually led us to make significant changes to what he was consuming. But something surprising happened: Graham didn’t stop scripting when we changed his media. His scripts changed. In this episode, we’re talking about why Christian parents raising autistic disciples need to pay attention not only to how much screen time our kids have, but to what is filling that time. We’ll talk about scripting and echolalia, how media can provide language for emotions, what happened when we changed Graham’s content, and why his tendency to retain and repeat language has actually become an incredible avenue for discipleship. You’ll also walk away with a practical way to evaluate your child’s media this week: Listen → Trace → Evaluate → Replace → Observe Listen for repeated phrases or emotional responses. Trace where they may have learned them. Evaluate the content—not simply for whether it’s “appropriate,” but for what it teaches about anger, fear, conflict, authority, and relationships. Replace unhelpful inputs with better ones rather than simply removing screens. Then observe what begins showing up in everyday life. Because Romans 12:2’s call to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind” applies to our families too. What repeatedly occupies our attention matters. The goal isn’t to eliminate an autistic way of learning. If our kids are going to script, we have an opportunity to give them truth worth scripting. Scripture referenced: Romans 12:2; Proverbs 4:23; Luke 6:45; Philippians 4:8; Deuteronomy 6:6–7; Psalm 1 One question to take with you: If my child is going to carry scripts into the world, what scripts am I helping put there?
#25
August 24 · 31 min
29: The Abundant Life
In John 10:10, Jesus says, “I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance.” But what exactly does abundant life mean—especially for families whose lives include disability, dependence, limitation, or suffering? In this episode, Larah looks at John 10 in its larger biblical context and challenges the assumption that abundance means health, independence, success, comfort, or a life untouched by hardship. With help from Puritan theologian William Gurnall's reflections on redemption, she explores how God’s plan in Christ is not merely to repair what sin ruined, but to bring His people into a redemption that sin can never ultimately destroy. You’ll hear why the presence of suffering does not mean the absence of abundant life, why disability does not put someone at a theological disadvantage, and why the greatest thing we can pursue for our autistic children is not normalization or independence—but life in Christ. In this episode: What John 10:10 actually means in context Why John 9 helps us understand Jesus as the Good Shepherd The difference between good gifts and gospel promises Why abundant life cannot be defined by ability, health, or independence Why suffering and abundant life can exist at the same time What this means for discipling autistic children Why our ultimate assignment is still the Great Commission Key Scriptures: John 9–10, John 1:4, John 6:35, John 11:25, John 14:6, Romans 5, Romans 8, 1 Corinthians 15, Ephesians 1, Revelation 21 Main takeaway: The abundant life Jesus promises is not a life untouched by the effects of the fall. It is life with God, secured by Christ, that the effects of the fall cannot ultimately take away. The gospel message doesn’t change, but the method in which it’s delivered might have to for learning’s sake. Our assignment is not normalization. Our assignment is to make disciples. Willian Gurnalls, Daily Readings from The Christian in Complete Armour: https://www.moodypublishers.com/daily-readings-from-the-christian-in-complete-armour?srsltid=AfmBOooNZ4x7-xXmX67OZs_XDTjNngyY37dCaC6ku4DWk_rgLc-R_5s5
S2 · E28
June 4 · 49 min
28: Communication through a Gospel Lens - Webinar
You can find the webinar on YouTube here. How do we communicate the gospel in a way that serves the listener? In this webinar episode, Larah explores a biblical theology of communication and introduces the LEARN framework, a practical approach for discipling autistic individuals and others impacted by disability. Drawing from the ministry methods of Jesus, Larah explains why communication is not primarily about the speaker, but about helping the listener understand and engage with truth. Throughout the episode, you'll learn how to listen before speaking, enter another person's world, assume competence, respond with curiosity and patience, and nurture relationships over time. Larah also shares practical examples for parents, church leaders, and volunteers, including case studies involving a nonverbal child, a teen with social challenges, and an adult seeking belonging within the church. Whether you're discipling your own child, serving in disability ministry, or simply seeking to communicate more effectively, this episode offers a gospel-centered framework that can transform the way you connect with others. In This Episode Why communication is a ministry to the listener Examples of how Jesus adapted His teaching methods The LEARN framework for disability discipleship Why flexibility is a ministry tool, not a compromise The importance of assuming competence Coaching volunteers to respond with curiosity instead of correction Building trust through long-term relationships Practical case studies for children, teens, and adults Using visuals, routines, and sensory supports in discipleship Strengthening the partnership between parents and churches Resources available to support gospel conversations at home and church Key Takeaways Communication serves the listener, not the speaker. Effective discipleship begins with understanding before instruction. LEARN: Listen First, Enter Their World, Assume Less, Respond with Curiosity & Patience, Nurture Relationships. Behavior should not automatically be interpreted as lack of understanding. Small accommodations often create significant opportunities for gospel engagement. Trust is often the bridge that allows truth to be received. Parents and churches accomplish more when they work together. You don't have to do everything at once. Start small somewhere. Notable Quotes "You can't disciple someone you refuse to understand." "Flexibility is a ministry tool, not a compromise." "Assume competence until proven otherwise." "Seek understanding before solutions. Respond with curiosity and patience." "The truth travels best through trust." "Start small somewhere." Resources Mentioned Letters to Lindsey: Seeing Your Child's Autism Diagnosis Through a Gospel Lens
S2 · E27
May 22 · 47 min
The Gift of Friendship on the Hard Road
In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, Larah sits down with her friend Kari Baker for a conversation that didn’t go as planned in the best way. What started as a simple podcast recording turned into an honest, heartfelt conversation about friendship, waiting on God, the struggle of wanting answers now, and the temptation to reach for control when life feels uncertain. Together, Larah and Kari talk about autism parenting, faith, social media, idols, patient endurance, and the gift of having people in your life who can help hold your arms up when the road feels heavy. Kari also shares about her ministry, KIND Families, her journey as an autism mom, and the heart behind her book Finding KIND. More than anything, this episode is a reminder that when the path feels lonely and hard, God often shows His kindness by sending faithful friends to walk with us. If you are raising an autistic child and feel tired, overwhelmed, or alone, this conversation will remind you to look to the Lord, receive the gift of friendship, and keep trusting that He is sustaining you on the journey. In this episode: Why waiting on God feels so hard The temptation to grab control when life feels uncertain Friendship as one of God’s kind gifts in hard seasons Honest conversation about faith, parenting, and endurance Encouragement for autism moms who feel alone You can find Kari on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kariabaker/ or at kindfamilies.com. Kari's book "Finding Kind" was influential in Larah's life, grab your copy here.
S2 · E24
April 16 · 1 hr 11 min
Understanding PDA Through a Gospel Lens
In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, Larah sits down with her friend Angie for an honest, VERY vulnerable, practical, and gospel-centered conversation about PDA, or Pathological Demand Avoidance. Larah comes into this conversation the same way many parents do, with questions. What is PDA really? How does it show up in everyday life? How do you parent a child who experiences demands, correction, and ordinary expectations in a very different way? And how do you hold on to a gospel lens while learning new ways to understand your child? Angie helps walk through the core traits often connected to a PDA profile, while also giving parents language, examples, and encouragement for the moments that can feel confusing, exhausting, or misunderstood. Together, they talk about nervous system survival, regulation, masking, parenting misconceptions, and why understanding how our kids are wired can help us better disciple them. This episode is especially for the parent who has felt overwhelmed, behind, or unsure where to even begin. You are not failing by learning as you go. And learning your child more deeply is not moving away from discipleship. It is part of faithful stewardship. In this episode: What PDA is and why many parents are still learning about it How PDA can affect everyday parenting moments Why demands, chores, and correction can feel so intense for some kids The difference between behavior that looks defiant and a nervous system in survival mode How to think about PDA through a gospel-centered lens Links Mentioned: How to know if your child is PDA @ At Peace Parents: https://www.atpeaceparents.com/clarity Extreme Demand Avoidance Questionaire: https://share.google/d7zSPbSOdN8vfBpze New ESA-8 questionnaire: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/resources/extreme-demand-avoidance-8-item-measure-eda-8/ PDA North America: https://pdanorthamerica.org/
S2 · E23
April 2 · 57 min
When Parenting Feels Overwhelming = Slow Down
In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, Larah sits down with her friend Tiffany Long for a real and encouraging conversation about parenting, autism, and learning to slow down when life feels overwhelming. Tiffany shares her family’s journey after her sons autism diagnosis and the lessons God has been teaching her in this season of parenting. Together they talk about the importance of creating margin, resisting the pressure to “figure everything out” immediately, and learning to trust that God is still working even when we can’t see the full picture. They also discuss the early days after diagnosis, the fear and uncertainty parents often feel, and why slowing down can actually help us better understand and support our children. If you’re an autism parent who feels like you’re constantly trying to keep up, this conversation will encourage you to breathe, take the next step faithfully, and trust that God is at work in both you and your child.
S2 · E20
March 26 · 19 min
Tell the Story - How to Talk To Your Autistic Kid About Easter
Find the guide here: https://mailchi.mp/57d52c1801c7/tellthestory A lot of Christian parents want to talk about Easter with their kids… but when the moment comes, they freeze. What do I say? How do I explain the gospel simply? Am I doing this right? On this podcast, Larah walks through a simple, biblical way to share the Easter story with your kids using the “Tell the Story” method, one sentence at a time. This approach is rooted in God’s design for discipleship in Deuteronomy 6, the power of storytelling, and a method used in missionary training around the world. It’s especially helpful for parents raising autistic kids because it leans into clear language, repetition, predictable structure, and concrete, visual moments. But most importantly, it takes the pressure off. You don’t have to give a perfect explanation. You don’t have to cover everything at once. You just tell the story. One sentence. One moment. One day at a time. And trust God to do what only He can do. In this video, we talk about why storytelling is one of the most powerful ways kids learn, how God designed faith to be passed down through everyday life, why this method works so well for autistic kids, how missionaries use story to share the gospel, and a simple way to walk through the Easter story step by step. Here’s a simple reminder for you as a parent. You are not responsible for the outcome. Your role is gospel proclamation and gospel saturation. God is responsible for the transformation. If you’re raising an autistic child and trying to disciple them in the gospel, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to make this complicated. Just tell the story.
S2 · E19
February 27 · 1 hr 14 min
The School Board Wasn't Expecting This Kind of Advocacy
Sometimes autism parenting feels like you’re making high-stakes decisions with incomplete information. School. Therapies. Doctors. The constant “what if.” The pressure to pick the perfect path and never regret it. In this episode, Larah sits down with her friend Nicole (mom of six boys) to talk about what it looks like to advocate for your autistic child without losing your peace or your witness. Nicole shares what led her to speak at a school board meeting, how she prepared, and what anchored her in the room: identity in Christ. They talk about decision-making through a gospel lens, why boldness doesn’t have to be loud, and how to walk forward in freedom when you can only see one step at a time. Inside the episode: How to advocate without yelling, spiraling, or burning bridges Why behavior change can’t come first (it has to start at the root) Making school/therapy decisions with prayer, wisdom, and margin “Lamp, not flashlight” faith for moms who want clarity now The freedom to pivot when something stops working If you’re tired of carrying the weight of every decision like it’s forever… this one will exhale for you. Find Nicole on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicole_cattelona/ How to Advocate & Stay Christian - https://amzn.to/40yaEme
S2 · E18
February 20 · 52 min
Sourdough & Raising Autistic Disciples
What does sourdough have to do with an autism diagnosis? More than you think. In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, I sit down with Courtney Moody of Acts of Sourdough to talk about motherhood, marriage, discipline, safe foods, Domino’s pizza… and what happens when the sky “isn’t blue anymore” after receiving a diagnosis. Courtney shares candidly about: The guilt that creeps in with every questionnaire The “tango” between “It’s my fault” and “It was always going to be this way” Navigating the controversial conversations around obedience and autism Loving your child without clipping their wings Protecting your marriage when the weight of parenting feels overwhelming And why a diagnosis is an open door — not the driver’s seat We talk about tough love, safe foods, spiritual surrender, and the beauty of raising autistic children for God’s glory — even when it feels exhausting. This conversation is honest, layered, and full of grace for the mom who just walked out of an evaluation appointment cross-eyed and overwhelmed. If you are in the early days of diagnosis… If you’re wrestling with guilt… If you’re learning how to love your spouse while loving your child fiercely… This one is for you.
S2 · E17
February 13 · 56 min
I'm Not Trying to Convince You (A Better Way to Have Hard Conversations) with Barb Stanley
Larah kicks off the 2026 season with a conversation that sets the tone for every interview to come. Her guest is Barb Stanley, founder of Wonderful Works Ministry—and also a mentor who helped Larah put words to something so many special needs parents feel but can’t always articulate: You don’t have to convince people. You can share your story and invite them to consider your lived experience. This episode is for the parent who is tired of defending. For the church member who wants to advocate without blowing up. For the leader who wants to listen well in a world that feels allergic to disagreement. Barb offers a practical, gospel-minded framework for staying calm, staying curious, and staying relational—even when the topic is emotional, personal, and high-stakes. About Barb Stanley Barb is the founder of Wonderful Works Ministry, an online disability ministry resource center equipping churches with practical tools for inclusive discipleship. Growing up with a brother with autism and intellectual disability, Barb combines lived experience with creative skills in design, writing, and illustration to make resources churches can actually use. https://www.wonderfulworksministry.org/
S3 · E16
February 7 · 41 min
Do I Tell People My Kid Is Autistic?
Welcome back to Raising Autistic Disciples! After a full year away from the mic, Larah and Colin Roberts are back with a “year in review” catch-up, a few honest laughs (yes… including the legendary Pooper Bowl anniversary), and a question Larah gets from other Christian parents all the time: “I struggle to tell people my son has autism. I want him treated like every other child. How did you handle this?” In this episode, Larah and Colin talk through the tension so many parents feel: wanting to protect your child from being defined by a diagnosis, while also realizing that hiding it can create more exhaustion, confusion, and isolation. They share practical ways they’ve learned to talk about autism in trusted circles, what to do when people respond with ignorant or hurtful comments, and why the gospel gives us freedom to be honest without shame. They also preview what’s coming this season, including conversations with autism moms, church leaders, and friends with different perspectives—because we can disagree and still be kind… and still worship together. In this episode, we talk about: The one-year anniversary of potty training success (and why you should absolutely celebrate the wins) Graham’s first airplane ride… and the “Great job, everybody. We did it!” moment A scary summer eye injury, and how it revealed something important about strong connections to people, places, and experiences Why not talking about autism can build emotional walls and make relationships harder The difference between identity in Christ and the reality of a diagnosis as a helpful “map” How to tell your trusted people before you feel like you have it all figured out What to do when family or church folks say the wrong thing (“He’s not autistic… he just needs more discipline…”) Why hiding a diagnosis can actually be unkind long-term The role of the church and community: we need running partners, reminders, and perspective Key takeaway: Your autistic child is not something to be hidden. They are an image bearer. And the goal isn’t to make autism their identity—it’s to live in the freedom of truth, so others can understand, support, and walk with you.
S2 · E15
Jan 17, 2025 · 25 min
Why is Life so Hard?
Join Collin and Larah as they discuss the question "why does life have to be so hard?" Why is the journey of raising an autistic kid have its challenges? What verse in the Bible explains "why is this life so hard?" Join the conversation!
S1 · E14
Jan 10, 2025 · 28 min
Hives, Goldfish & Snot: the Christmas Recap
Join Collin and Larah as they describe the Christmas adventures their family went on and what they learned from it that includes breaking out in hives, goldfish, snot, and blessing the Lord at all times.
S1 · E13
Dec 23, 2024 · 46 min
Prepping Your Family For Your Family
In this special episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, we’re joined by author JJ Levan, a passionate advocate and parent of an autistic son. Together, we explore the unique challenges and blessings of preparing your family—siblings, grandparents, and even close friends—to embrace and celebrate your autistic child’s God-given design. JJ shares heartfelt stories from her own journey, practical wisdom, and biblical encouragement for fostering understanding and unity within your family. From navigating tricky conversations to creating a home where every member feels seen and loved, this episode is packed with insights to equip your family to reflect Christ’s love. Join us for a conversation full of grace, hope, and actionable steps to prepare your family to thrive together! JJ's book: He Meant You to Be You http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHPT7YN6
S1 · E12
Dec 12, 2024 · 10 min
Emmanuel is Enough
In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, we explore the powerful truth that "Emmanuel"—God with us—is enough for every season of parenting. Whether you're navigating meltdowns, advocating for your child, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the weight of it all, this episode offers biblical encouragement and practical insights to remind you that God's presence is sufficient. Join Larah as she unpacks how trusting in Emmanuel equips us to embrace both the challenges and joys of raising autistic disciples, leaning on His strength instead of our own. Tune in and be encouraged—you’re not in this alone!
S1 · E11
Nov 15, 2024 · 34 min
Holiday Anxiety
In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, we will share practical insights for navigating holiday anxiety that often affects autistic children and their families. The holiday season can bring a whirlwind of sensory overload, unexpected changes, and social pressures. We’ll discuss effective strategies for preparing your child (and yourself!) for these challenges, with tips on maintaining peace, setting gentle boundaries, and keeping Christ at the center of your celebrations. Together, let’s create a holiday season that honors both your child’s unique needs and the joyful meaning of this time of year.
S1 · E10
Nov 10, 2024 · 22 min
Season 1 Recap
Join Collin and Larah as they look back over season one and offer a few regrets, wishes, and even more excitement for what is to come! DM Larah on Instagram @RaisingAutisticDisciples to give us some ideas on what topics you'd like to hear going forward!
S1 · E9
Nov 10, 2024 · 52 min
Education & Advocacy
Join Collin & Larah as they discuss the final stage of the autism diagnosis for the Christ-following parent: Education & Advocacy. You can find their book, "How to Advocate & Stay Christian," on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3SpITcb

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