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The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert Insights & Proven Resources
The Polaris Connection is the ultimate autism parenting podcast for families, caregivers, and professionals navigating the world of autism and special needs. Each episode shares real stories, expert insights, and practical strategies to support children with autism, strengthen family life, and connect with the broader autism community. From special education resources and behavioral tips to advocacy guidance and emotional support, The Polaris Connection provides actionable tools for parents, teachers, and therapists alike. Join us to discover inspiring journeys, learn about autism support networks, and explore ways to celebrate your child’s strengths while overcoming challenges. Whether you’re seeking advice on autism therapies, school programs, social skills development, or community connection, The Polaris Connection offers trusted guidance to help you thrive. Tune in each week for episodes that empower families, build understanding, and create meaningful connections in the world of autism and special needs parenting.
Join Brad Broyles and Nathan Palmer on The Polaris Connection where they help parents of autistic and neurodivergent children find power, perspective, and possibility. Through expert insights and real-life stories, we spark hope, share resources, and inspire families to navigate the journey with confidence. It’s not just a podcast, it’s a movement for connection, strength, and unapologetic advocacy.
Your voice matters. Do you have a topic, challenge, or question we can bring to the next episode? Reach out and follow us on social media at @PolarisAcademySocial
Email us at info@polarisacademy.org
To schedule a tour at Polaris Academy, go to PolarisAcademy.org
The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert Insights & Proven Resources
How Pawsitive Pets Build Stronger Autism Connections Through Play and Games by Tosha Tharp-Gaitanis
Discover how animals unlock unexpected breakthroughs for autistic children in this inspiring episode of The Polaris Connection. Founder Tosha Tharp-Gaitanis shares the remarkable journey behind Pawsitive Friendship, an innovative program using therapy animals to support communication, sensory regulation, emotional connection, and confidence building for neurodivergent kids.
Learn how playful, structured interactions with certified dogs and other therapy animals help children develop social skills, reduce anxiety, and engage in meaningful relationships—often achieving progress where traditional methods fall short. Tosha explains the science behind animal-assisted therapy, why kids on the spectrum naturally connect with animals, and how Pawsitive Friendship partners with families, schools, and therapy centers to create real-world change.
Plus, don’t miss our special highlight of the 10th Annual REV’D UP FOR AUTISM Car Show & Resource Fair—a must-attend community event bringing families, resources, support organizations, and cool cars together for a day of celebration and autism awareness. Join us in supporting this milestone year and the mission to empower every child to thrive.
If you're a parent, educator, therapist, or advocate, this episode delivers powerful insights into the healing and connection that animals bring to autistic children—proving once again that sometimes the smallest paws make the biggest impact.
Guest: Tosha Tharp-Gaitanis
Event: REV’D UP FOR AUTISM Car Show & Resource Fair : https://pawsitivefriendships.org/10th-annual-revd-up-for-autism/
Pawstive Friendship: https://pawsitivefriendships.org
Follow us on Instagram at PolarisAcademySocial and reach us at Info@PolarisAcademy.com
