Transforming Our Journey of Autism Through Presence and Play with Jennifer Briggs

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What happens when you step away from “fixing” and begin meeting your autistic child exactly where they are?

In this heartfelt episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, Brigitte talks with Jennifer Briggs, a mom who created a home-based Son-Rise program—called Sarah-Rise—for her daughter who has a rare genetic anomaly and autism.

Jennifer opens up about the stressful early years, the emotional weight of trying so many therapies, and the turning point that led her to a completely different approach—one rooted in presence, joining, and deep connection.

She shares how the Son-Rise philosophy (now known as Do Autism Differently) helped Sarah make meaningful developmental gains—and how embracing her child’s world instead of resisting it transformed their relationship.

This conversation is filled with gentleness, honesty, and hope for any parent who’s ever felt overwhelmed, doubtful, or unsure of the next step.

💛 In this episode, Jennifer shares:

- How she shifted from stress and fear to connection and trust
- What “joining” looks like and why it matters
- How the Sarah-Rise program helped her daughter engage more deeply
- The emotional challenges of guilt, grief, and self-pressure

If you’re navigating your own autism journey, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to rush, force, or push. There is another way—one rooted in presence and acceptance.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
03:16 Jennifer's Journey: From Teacher to Mom 
04:46 Sarah's Early Years and Diagnosis 
08:28 The Turning Point: Discovering the Sunrise Program 
11:01 Implementing the Sunrise Program at Home 
18:32 Understanding Genetic Anomalies and Autism 
31:10 The Power of Community and Asking for Help 
33:52 Jennifer's Book: Watching Sarah Rise 
38:45 Final Thoughts and Where to Connect 

🔗 Resources & Links

Jennifer's Website:
https://www.watchingsarahrise.com/

Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership:
https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat

Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism:
https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book

Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com

Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin
tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com

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