Beyond the Diagnosis: Autism Parenting, Inchstones, and the Journey to Adulthood with Gena Mann

Parenting autistic kids isn’t a straight line—it’s a zigzag through school meetings, medication trials, sleepless nights, and unexpected joy. In this episode of Inchstones, host Sarah Kernion joins Gena Mann for a no-holds-barred conversation about what it truly feels like to raise neurodivergent kids in a world built around milestones.

They cover everything from early intervention to IEPs, puberty panic to post-high school plans—with brutal honesty, well-earned wisdom, and a few laughs along the way.

This isn’t just about autism. It’s about parenting in the unknown—and learning to celebrate the inchstones that quietly change everything.

Key Takeaways for Parents of Autistic Children:

• Early intervention helps—but the journey doesn't end with a diagnosis.
  Adulthood transitions in autism parenting can be emotional and unpredictable.
  Anticipatory anxiety is common—especially when imagining the future.
  Curiosity about your child's needs often leads to deeper connection.
  Community support is not optional—it's essential.
  Celebrating inchstones can sustain parents through burnout and uncertainty.
  Communication breakthroughs—verbal or nonverbal—are major emotional wins.
  There is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting in the world of neurodiversity.
  You deserve to feel peace and joy, even in the hard seasons.
  Autism parenting is a marathon—find joy in the pace that fits your child.

Chapters

• (00:00:00) - Back to the Inch Stones With Jenna Mann
• (00:00:54) - Autism Mom's Reflections on the Years After Diagnosis
• (00:07:47) - Stay Curious: The Process of Autism School Choices
• (00:15:19) - Jenna on Emotionally Processing Her Son's Transition
• (00:19:39) - Mac and Millie's First Period
• (00:22:45) - How To Get Out Of the House
• (00:27:41) - In the Elevation: Victorious Wins for Your Family