Epi #115. 4 Ways to Best Support Your Neurodivergent Child.
Jun 04, 2024
4 Ways to Best Support Your Neurodivergent Child.
Today, I’m diving deep into a topic that’s super close to my heart.
Imagine this: You’re sailing the unpredictable seas of parenting, where sometimes the waters are calm, but often, they're stormy, especially when you're navigating the world of neurodiverse children.
It’s a journey I know all too well.
I invited Laura Petix, Clinical Occupational Therapist and owner of The OTButterfly to come in to The Parenting With Understanding Podcast and help me create systems to best support my son’s neurodivergent needs.
If you have a neurodiverse family, this blog article is exactly what you need.
- Unraveling the Complexity of Family Dynamics with Neurodiversity
Navigating family life with neurodiverse children adds layers of complexity that can test even the most patient parent.
But guess what? It’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving, and I’m here to show you how.
Real Talk:
Let me share a story about the Johnsons, whose middle child, Liam, has Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Every simple family outing required what felt like a military strategy to avoid sensory overload.
Laura says that as parents of neurodivergent children, our job is not to try to avoid their triggers or the meltdown, but to prepare with tools so we help our children cope with their triggers and meltdowns.
- Decoding Sensory Needs: The Heartbeat of Support
At the core of thriving in this journey is understanding the sensory needs of neurodiverse children.
These needs can swing from one extreme to another, but they are your roadmap to providing the right support.
Here’s What Works:
Imagine creating a tailored 'sensory diet' that includes activities specifically designed for your child's sensory profile.
This was a game-changer for Emily, a bright 8-year-old who struggled in noisy classrooms.
With noise-canceling headphones and scheduled quiet times, her school days transformed from a battleground to a sanctuary.
- Everyday Strategies for Extraordinary Outcomes
Implementing practical, day-to-day strategies can profoundly improve how your child interacts with the world and manages transitions.
Try This:
The Greens introduced a sensory kit for their son, Alex, making family outings a joy instead of a stress fest.
This kit, filled with tactile toys and a weighted vest, became their magic wand for enjoyable family time.
- Celebrating Neurodiversity Within the Family
Normalizing diverse needs within your family isn’t just nice—it’s crucial. It fosters an environment where every family member feels valued and understood.
Make It Routine:
The Clarks have a monthly "Family Understanding Night," where everyone, including Claire, who communicates through a device, shares personal challenges and victories.
This has brought them closer, nurturing mutual respect and empathy.
- Place support systems around you:
Imagine having the right support with a private community and ongoing guidance from professional parenting coaches.
Picture a world where you're equipped with effective tools and strategies, making it easier to raise your neurodivergent children.
This isn’t just a dream—it can be your reality!
The Secure Parent Collective is our private community where passionate parents like you are dedicated to becoming secure parents and raising emotionally healthy children.
With the support of our HIC Parenting coaching team, members gain access to essential tools that bring peace to their homes and foster emotional health in their children.
Our doors are open until June 7th, 2024.
CLICK HERE to learn more about our membership and gain access to the tools, direct guidance, and community support you need.
Wrapping It Up
After a decade of mastering tools to transform my relationship with my child, I know firsthand the power of commitment and the right strategies.
By diving deep into understanding sensory needs, implementing practical strategies, normalizing diversity, and committing to ongoing education, you too can transform your family dynamics.
