Moments of Joy

Special Needs Families Are Leaving Churches — Here’s Why

Families raising children with disabilities often don’t leave church because they’ve lost faith. Many leave because they feel unseen, unsupported, isolated, or overwhelmed trying to navigate spaces that were never designed with their children in mind. In this powerful episode, I sit down with

Pastor Craig Johnson, founder of Champions Club, a worldwide special needs ministry that has helped launch over 135 disability ministries across the globe. Together, we have an honest conversation about disability inclusion in churches, autism acceptance in faith spaces, supporting families with special needs, and what true belonging really looks like. We discuss: • Why many special needs families quietly stop attending church • The emotional weight caregivers carry in public spaces • How churches can better support autistic children and people with disabilities • Practical ways to create sensory-friendly and inclusive ministries • Pastor Craig’s personal journey and heart behind Champions Club •

 

What pastors, volunteers, and ministry leaders often misunderstand • How the Church can become a place of refuge instead of isolation Whether you are a parent raising a child with autism, a pastor, ministry leader, volunteer, educator, or someone passionate about disability awareness and inclusion, this conversation is deeply important. No family should feel invisible in the house of God. ✨ If you’re a special needs parent, what’s one thing you wish churches understood better about your family? Share below. Your story may help someone feel less alone.

 

#Autism #SpecialNeeds #DisabilityInclusion #AutismAcceptance #ChurchInclusion #SpecialNeedsMinistry #ChampionsClub #AutismParenting #DisabilityAwareness #SpecialNeedsParenting #FaithAndDisability #CaregiverSupport #AutisticChildren #InclusiveChurch #MomentsOfJoyPodcast #PastorCraigJohnson #AutismFamily #ChristianPodcast #SpecialNeedsFamilies

The truth about dental care for special needs children with Dr. Hareeti Gill

What happens when a dentist truly understands children with disabilities? 💙 In this conversation, we’re talking about the importance of compassionate dental care for children with special needs, how parents often have to advocate in medical offices, sensory challenges during appointments, and why finding the right provider matters so much. We also discuss practical ways dental offices can better support autistic children and families, plus resources that may help parents searching for understanding providers in their area. If you’re a parent raising a child with special needs, this episode is a reminder that you are not “doing too much” by speaking up for your child. Advocacy matters. ✨ Parents, have you ever had an amazing — or difficult — experience at the dentist with your child? Share below so other families can learn and feel less alone. #Autism #SpecialNeedsParenting #AutismParenting #SpecialNeeds #ParentAdvocacy #DisabilityAwareness #SensoryFriendly #AutismAcceptance #MomentsOfJoyPodcast #SpecialNeedsMom #MedicalAdvocacy #AutisticChildren

The Unexpected Truth About Profound Autism That Changes How We See the Spectrum

Here's the truth: living with profound autism means lifelong caregiving—it's overwhelming but also filled with moments of hope. 👉 Tag a parent who needs to hear this today. Have you ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes of severe autism? Gunner's journey from early milestones to challenging years—and now breakthrough moments—show us that progress, no matter how small, is strength in disguise. It's not always pretty, and advocacy is tough, especially when boundaries are tested. But sharing our stories can give others hope and understanding. What message do you wish more people understood about profound autism? Let's keep the conversation real and compassionate. Full episode linked in bio — you don’t want to miss this inspiring talk! #AutismAwareness #ProfoundAutism #AutismJourney #MomLife #AdvocacyMatters

Autism Awareness & Parenting: A Candid Conversation with Holly Robinson Peetee

She changed the conversation around autism—and tomorrow, she’s sitting down with us.

💙 In honor of the first day of Autism Awareness Month, I had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Holly Robinson Peete—actress, advocate, author, and co-founder of the HollyRod Foundation.

But more than anything… she’s a mom. A mom who has walked this journey of raising a child with autism, using her voice to bring awareness, resources, and real change to our community. In this episode of the Moments of Joy Podcast, we talk about:

✨ Her personal journey as an autism mom

✨ The reality behind advocacy and what it really takes ✨ Building support systems that actually sustain you ✨ The importance of representation in the autism community ✨ Encouragement for parents who feel overwhelmed, unseen, or alone This conversation is honest, powerful, and full of heart—because when moms come together, healing happens and strength multiplies. Whether you’re raising a child with autism, supporting someone who is, or simply want to understand more… this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in now and share this with a parent who needs encouragement today. This episode of The Moments of Joy Podcast is brought to you by @aeroflow_urology, the experts in helping the autism community access high-quality incontinence supplies through insurance. Aeroflow simplifies the process by handling all of the paperwork, saving you hundreds of dollars each month on diapers, pull-ups, and wipes. Plus, they're delivered discreetly to your door every single month so you never run out. Tap the link below to check your child’s eligibility and start saving today! https://aeroflowurology.com/moj 

What Special Needs Families Really Need from Friends & Family with Taylor J

In this episode of the Moments of Joy podcast, Camille sits down with her friend Taylor J for a heartfelt and honest conversation about how friends and extended family members can better support families raising children with special needs.

Whether you’re a sibling, grandparent, cousin, or close friend, you may often wonder: How can I help? This episode dives into the kind of help that actually makes a difference—from emotional support to practical ways to show up for the everyday challenges.

🎙️ Topics We Cover:

• What not to say to special needs parents

• Practical ways to show up and support

• How to include the child with special needs

• Why empathy matters more than understanding

• Personal stories from Camille and Taylor’s journey

💬 If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to be there for a family you love, this episode will give you the insight and encouragement you need.

🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode to support special needs families everywhere.

#SpecialNeedsParenting #FamilySupport #AutismAwareness #MomentsOfJoyPodcast #TaylorJ #ParentingPodcast #Neurodiversity #DisabilityInclusion #HowToHelp

The Mental Load of Special Needs Parenting: Tools for Caregiver Wellness with Dr. Tiyahri Wilson 183

We’re diving into a powerful conversation that every caregiver needs to hear. I’m joined by my friend, Dr. Tiyahri Wilson, Counseling Psychologist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC), as we talk about the mental health of parents raising children with special needs. Dr. Wilson brings both professional insight and heartfelt compassion—offering practical tools, encouragement, and reminders that our wellness matters too. As caregivers, we often pour from an empty cup. This episode is your invitation to pause, breathe, and feel seen.

You can connect with Dr Wilson here : www.instagram.com/tiyahri

You’re Not Alone: Parenting, Isolation, and the Power of Support #182

Summary: In this episode of the Moments of Joy Podcast, Camille Joy discusses the challenges faced by parents of children with special needs, emphasizing the importance of community, understanding, and self-care. She shares personal experiences of feeling misunderstood and offers encouragement to parents navigating similar struggles. The episode highlights the need for mental health prioritization and the value of finding supportive communities to combat feelings of isolation.

 

Takeaways:

• Community is essential for parents of special needs children.
• Feeling misunderstood is common, but you are not alone.
• It's important to seek support from others who understand your journey.
• Caregiver burnout is a real issue that needs addressing.
• Prioritizing mental health is crucial for effective caregiving.
• You can advocate for your child without sacrificing your well-being.
• Self-affirmation and positive self-talk can help combat negativity.
• Finding local and online support groups can provide valuable resources.
• It's okay to let go of relationships that don't support your journey.
• Choosing joy is a powerful mindset, even in difficult times.

Lets Talk About IEPS #181

In this episode of the Moments of Joy podcast, Camille Joy discusses the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process for children with special needs. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the special education system, advocating for children's rights, and the necessity of evaluations to identify needs. Camille shares personal stories and insights on navigating IEP meetings, the significance of documentation, and the power of affirmation in supporting children with disabilities. The episode serves as a guide for parents to empower themselves and their children in the educational journey. 

Equity and Empowerment in the Autism Community with Areva Martin #180

In this conversation, Areva Martin shares her journey as an advocate for autism awareness and support, stemming from her personal experiences as a mother of a child with autism. She discusses the disparities in services available to families based on socioeconomic status and race, the importance of early diagnosis and intervention, and the need for community support. Areva emphasizes that communication can take many forms and that autism should be viewed as a unique way of being rather than a deficit. She encourages parents to embrace their child's diagnosis and highlights the resources available through her nonprofit organization, the Special Needs Network.

A Conversation on Challenges, Growth, and Community with Irisa Leverette #179

In this episode of the Moments of Joy podcast, Camille Joy interviews Irisa Leverette, who shares her journey of raising her son Darius, who is on the autism spectrum. They discuss the importance of autism awareness and acceptance, the challenges of navigating the education system, and the need for advocacy. The conversation also touches on planning for the future, employment opportunities for individuals with autism, and the impact of social media on their lives. The episode emphasizes the uniqueness of each child on the spectrum and the importance of community support. In this conversation, Irisa shares her experiences and insights on raising an autistic child, discussing the challenges, the importance of advocacy, and the need for awareness and acceptance in society. She emphasizes the significance of mental health for caregivers and offers practical advice for new parents navigating the autism journey. The discussion highlights the importance of kindness and understanding towards individuals with autism and their families, encouraging a supportive community.