This episode of A Dose of Optimism explores how technology and compassion are reshaping the autism journey, from early diagnosis to innovative therapy.Host Omkar Kulkarni talks with Dr. Colleen Kraft, past president of the American Academy of Pediatrics, about how pediatricians are identifying developmental differences earlier than ever. She explains how AI tools like Canvas Dx, developed by Cognoa, are helping families get answers faster and start life-changing interventions while children’s brains are still rapidly developing. Dr. Sharief Taraman, a pediatric neurologist and CEO of Cognoa, shares how technology is expanding access to care by reducing wait times and empowering more clinicians to diagnose and support children with autism.The conversation continues with Vijay Ravindran, founder and CEO of Floreo, who describes how virtual reality is being used to teach social and life skills in a safe, immersive environment. His platform is helping children practice everything from crossing the street to making friends, turning therapy into a truly interactive learning experience.From AI to VR, these breakthroughs are giving families hope, access, and the support they need, proving that innovation in children’s health is both possible and powerful.Connect with Colleen Kraft:Colleen Kraft LinkedInConnect with Sharief Taraman:Cognoa WebsiteCognoa InstagramSharief Taraman LinkedInSharief Taraman InstagramConnect with Vijay Ravindran:Floreo WebsiteFloreo InstagramVijay Ravindran LinkedInRead:NYC autism school embraces VR to teach social skills and boost learningSchools turn to VR to develop a ‘future-ready’ neurodivergent workforceFor people with disabilities, stressful situations may be traumatic. VR can help | OpinionConnect with us:KidsX WebsiteKidsX LinkedInChildren's Hospital L.A. WebsiteChildren's Hospital L.A. InstagramChildren's Hospital L.A. LinkedInLearn more about our sponsor:Nabla WebsiteNabla LinkedIn“The content, views, opinions, and information presented on this podcast do not reflect the views of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles or of the sponsors of the podcast. CHLA does not endorse the views, opinions and information presented on this podcast and CHLA specifically disclaims any legal liability or responsibility for the podcast’s content.”

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