Mandy and Kate talk to Jacqui and Nick, pea parents of gorgeous 16-year-old James – Mandy’s daughter Molly’s best friend from school. James has been diagnosed with autism and an intellectual disability, and is a social, vivacious and a popular kid who is a much-loved friend to Molly and his other classmates.

Jacqui and Nick reflect on James’ birth, early development delays and the journey towards diagnosis, where no matter what, their goal was to always make sure James was feeling as happy as possible. They also reflect on James’ school experience, including the great moments, the rectum moments and the particular challenge of ‘fitting in’ the specialist school system –  which currently needs evolution and innovation to better meet the needs of 21st century young people with disabilities and neurodiversity.

Jacqui and Nick also share more about James’ passion for fashion and make up and his job as a barista at social enterprise Tasty Az!

Also, Mandy and Kate announce an exciting new event coming up for our Melbourne Peas – the Pea Lunch at the Ferntree Gully Hotel! Jacqui is the venue manager at the hotel and has helped arrange a special event buffet lunch where everyone can come, enjoy time as a family, feel welcome and enjoy meeting other Peas and Peashoots – with plenty of nuggets guaranteed!

Date and time: Saturday 10 September 11.30am-2pm

Cost: $15 per head

Bookings: Contact the Ferntree Gully Hotel to book in now!

Plus:

·      Buy our book The Invisible Life Of Us 

·      Get a signed copy and deck yourself out in some excellent Too Peas merch here

·      Listen to our Spotify playlist – Too Peas: Songs Our Guest Peas Love

·      Melbourne forecast for Thursday August 4– Showers or two, 18 degrees

·      Join our Facebook Hangout

·      Find us on YouTube

Thank you for supporting Too Peas In A Podcast! Don’t forget to rate and review

Contact us here:

Website: www.toopeasinapodcast.com.au

Email: toopeaspodcast@gmail.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.