I had the pleasure of interviewing author Jim Schneider about his book Fencebat:A Big Kid’s Guide to Parenting, Personal Growth, and Play and the amazing work we did together!

The Story Behind ‘Fencebat’

Let me take you on a journey through the heartwarming tale of ‘Fencebat,’ a book that holds within its pages the essence of resilience, growth, and the beauty of parenting during challenging times. Jim Schneider and I delve into the origins of the title, the backdrop of writing during a pandemic, and the profound discoveries of growth and resilience, you’ll uncover the depth of emotions and experiences that shaped this remarkable literary creation.

Origins of the Book Title

The title ‘Fencebat‘ may seem whimsical at first glance, but its roots run deep into the soil of family bonding and creative exploration. Inspired by a game invented by Jim’s children during the confines of the pandemic, ‘Fencebat’ symbolizes the ability to find joy and playfulness even in the midst of adversity. Just like the ever-evolving rules of the children’s game, life too can present us with unpredictable challenges that require adaptability and a sense of humor.

Writing During the Pandemic

Amidst the uncertainties and restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jim embarked on a daily writing journey that chronicled his experiences as a parent navigating the uncharted waters of quarantine. Balancing the roles of caregiver, teacher, and advocate, he found solace in sharing his reflections and insights with a community facing similar struggles. The act of writing not only served as a cathartic outlet but also paved the way for a deeper understanding of his own growth and resilience.

Discovering Growth and Resilience

As the days turned into weeks and the weeks into months, Jim’s family underwent profound transformations, both individually and collectively. The diagnosis of autism in his son brought forth a wave of emotions, from fear and uncertainty to acceptance and empowerment. Through this journey, he learned the invaluable lesson that change, though daunting, can lead to unexpected blessings and personal growth.

The essence of ‘Fencebat’ lies in its ability to capture the essence of finding light in the darkness, laughter in the tears, and growth in the challenges. It serves as a beacon of hope for parents navigating similar paths, reminding them that resilience is not the absence of struggles but the courage to face them head-on with love and determination.

Finding Inspiration in Adversity

During challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, finding inspiration can be a beacon of light amidst the darkness. As a parent navigating through the uncertainties and complexities of parenting during a global crisis, Jim discovered profound moments of joy, valuable lessons, and a newfound resilience that reshaped his perspective on life.

Creating Joyful Moments in Challenging Times

One of the most remarkable aspects of adversity is the opportunity it presents to create joyful moments out of seemingly bleak circumstances. Just like the game ‘Fencebat’ that Jim’s kids invented during the lockdown, where they found laughter and fun in the confines of their backyard, we too can find ways to infuse happiness into our daily lives.

Whether it’s engaging in silly activities, exploring new hobbies, or simply cherishing the small, precious moments with loved ones, creating joy amidst adversity is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength that lies within us.

Lessons Learned from Parenting During COVID-19

Parenting during a pandemic brought forth a myriad of challenges and unexpected revelations. From juggling remote learning schedules to adapting to the emotional needs of his children, every day was a learning experience filled with highs and lows.

Through this journey, he learned the importance of patience, flexibility, and the significance of being present in my children’s lives. The pandemic not only tested his parenting skills but also taught him the value of embracing change and finding positivity in the midst of chaos.

Embracing Change and Finding Positivity

Change is inevitable, especially during times of adversity. Embracing change with an open heart and a positive mindset can lead to transformative growth and newfound opportunities. As he navigated through the challenges of parenting a neurodiverse child during a global crisis, he discovered the beauty of resilience, adaptability, and the power of unconditional love.

Every obstacle became a stepping stone towards personal growth, every setback a lesson in perseverance, and every moment of darkness a reminder to seek the light within. Finding positivity in the face of adversity is not just a choice; it’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unwavering power of hope.

Parenting a Neurodiverse Child: A Journey of Understanding

Parenting a neurodiverse child is a unique and rewarding journey that comes with its own set of challenges and triumphs. As a parent, he has learned valuable lessons through the diagnosis and support for autism, personal growth as a present parent, and the importance of acceptance and embracing differences.

Diagnosis and Support for Autism

When his son was diagnosed with autism about a month into the pandemic, it was a moment of uncertainty and fear. However, through seeking the right support and understanding, he was able to navigate this new chapter with resilience and determination. Finding the right resources, therapists, and educators played a crucial role in helping his son thrive and reach his full potential.

Personal Growth as a Present Parent

During the challenging times of the pandemic, he discovered the importance of being a present parent. Balancing work, homeschooling, and caring for a neurodiverse child required patience, empathy, and a deep sense of understanding. He learned to appreciate the small moments, celebrate progress, and adapt to the ever-changing needs of his child.

Acceptance and Embracing Differences

One of the most profound lessons he learned was the power of acceptance and embracing differences. Instead of viewing neurodiversity as a limitation, he began to see it as a unique and beautiful aspect of his child. Celebrating his strengths, interests, and quirks helped him create a nurturing environment where he could flourish.

Through the journey of parenting a neurodiverse child, he has discovered the resilience in parenting, the joy in finding silver linings during challenges, and the beauty of unconditional love. Every day brings new opportunities for growth, understanding, and connection, shaping him into a better parent and a more compassionate individual.

Promoting ‘Fencebat’ and Future Endeavors

The process of getting this book into bookstores has been both challenging and rewarding. Engaging with readers through promotional events has allowed him to connect with individuals who resonate with the message of resilience in parenting and finding joy in challenges.

Looking ahead, his future plans and writing endeavors are driven by a desire to continue spreading positivity and inspiration. The experience of navigating parenting during a pandemic and discovering the beauty of neurodiversity has shaped his perspective in profound ways. He believes that sharing these stories is not only a personal journey but also a way to uplift and empower others facing similar struggles.

With ‘Fencebat’, he aimed to capture the essence of turning obstacles into opportunities, of finding humor in the midst of chaos, and of cherishing the moments that define our parenthood. The book serves as a reminder that even in the most challenging times, there is always room for growth, laughter, and love.