LPH51: Becoming an Autism Bonus Mom With Dr. Rita Renee

What does it really look like to become a “bonus mom” to a child with autism and learn a whole new way to parent?

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, Wendy Ernzen talks with Dr. Rita Renee about autism parenting, blended family life, and caregiver support. They share an honest conversation about stepping into a parenting role later in life and learning how to support a child with different needs.

Rita opens up about meeting her husband, being introduced to his two sons, and learning about autism when her stepson was just seven years old. She shares the tools that made the biggest difference, including routine, patience, advocacy, and creating emotional safety at home. Now, with her son is sixteen and thriving in school, Rita explains how this journey shaped her leadership, deepened her empathy, and reminds families that they are not alone.

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