There’s a moment many neurodivergent people experience that hits like a wave, often in childhood but reinforced across years: “You’re too much.” Too loud. Too sensitive. Too emotional. Too intense. Too difficult. Too different. The echoes of these messages can live in...
Parenting
When Self-Regulation Feels Impossible
“I know what I’m supposed to do, but in the moment, I just can’t” If you’ve ever said this, you’re not alone. As a neurodivergent parent, you’ve probably read about self-regulation strategies, maybe even tried them; breathing exercises, mindfulness apps, grounding...
Why “One Size Fits All” Parenting Doesn’t Work: And What to Do Instead
When you become a parent, the advice comes fast and furious. Sleep training, screen time, mealtime routines, reward charts – it’s as though there’s a formula, and if you just follow it, you’ll raise a successful child. But what happens when your child doesn’t respond...
What Temple Grandin Taught Me About Supporting Autistic Kids
When my son was first diagnosed with autism, I did what many of us do, I started reading everything I could. One of the first voices that truly resonated with me was Temple Grandin She wasn’t just another expert, she was someone who had lived the experience and...
Parenting While Neurodivergent: Balancing Self-Care and Childcare
Parenting is hard. Parenting while neurodivergent, especially when raising neurodivergent children, adds an entirely new level of complexity. Many autistic or ADHD parents feel constant pressure to “keep up,” even when their own executive functioning, sensory...
Parenting Through Trauma: Supporting Your Child While Healing Yourself
Parenting can be a deeply rewarding experience, but it can also bring up unresolved issues from our past, especially when we’re healing from trauma. As a parent, it’s challenging enough to support your child through their own struggles without also carrying the weight...
A Winter Holiday Guide: Thoughtful Support for Neurodivergent Families
Created by Stacy @ stacyfinch.com & Adrianne @ discoverautism.ca The holidays are full of potential for connection, joy, and, let’s face it, some chaos. For families with neurodivergent children, the season can bring extra challenges. Bright lights, noisy...
Winter Holiday Survival Guide: Tips for Parents of Neurodivergent Children
Created by Stacy @ stacyfinch.com & Adrianne @ discoverautism.ca The winter holidays are a time of warmth, wonder—and, let’s be honest, a little chaos. For parents of neurodivergent children, the season often comes with unique challenges. The bright lights,...
Understanding Executive Functioning: A Guide to Building Essential Life Skills
Executive functioning refers to the set of mental skills that help individuals manage time, focus attention, plan and organize, and regulate behavior. These cognitive processes are essential for navigating daily life, academic success, and personal relationships....
Managing Child Custody with Autism and PDA: Navigating Challenges
Child custody for an autistic child with a Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) profile can present unique challenges, especially around routines, masking, and emotional regulation. The Impact of PDA on Routines and Transitions Children with PDA can appear to thrive on...