Supporting a neurodivergent child can be both frustrating and extremely rewarding. Often ‘go to’ parenting strategies that work for neurotypical kids do not work with our wonderful neurodivergent kids. It involves a blend of understanding, patience, and advocacy. Here are 10 tips for families to create a nurturing and supportive environment:
1. Educate Yourself About Neurodiversity:
Learn about your child’s specific neurodivergent profile, strengths and challenges. Understanding how they perceive and interact with the world will help you tailor your support to their needs (‘walk a day in their shoes’).
2. Focus on Strengths and Interests:
Celebrate and encourage your child’s strengths and passions. This can boost their self-esteem and may lead to unique opportunities for growth and learning.
3. Celebrate Small Achievements:
Recognize and celebrate your child’s achievements, no matter how small. This reinforces their sense of accomplishment and self-worth.
4. Create a Structured and Predictable Environment:
Many neurodivergent children experience difficulties with executive functions and therefore require and thrive in environments where routines are predictable. This structure can reduce demands, help them feel secure and help them be better set up for their day-to-day activities.
5. Seek Professional Support When Needed:
Don’t hesitate to seek support from professionals like speech and occupational therapists, counsellors, psychologists, and educators specialised in neurodiversity. They can offer valuable guidance and intervention strategies. Early support is key to future success.
6. Practice Patience and Compassion (both with yourself and your child):
Remember that your child may experience the world differently. Patience and compassion are key in understanding their perspective and responding to their needs, remember it is often ‘can’t’ not ‘won’t’. If they are struggling with something, what skill may they need help with. During times of high stress or meltdowns, remember to regulate first (even if you need to step away for a moment and take a deep breath) which can help you see the situation clearly rather than react.
7. Engage in Self Care:
A dysregulated adult cannot support a dysregulated child. Have time away from parenting, do things that regulate your nervous system so you have capacity to be the parent you want to be.
8. Communicate:
Listen to their concerns and feelings, and assure them that it’s okay to express themselves. As neurodivergent children and young people know themselves best and get help us understand how to help them.
9. Join Support Groups:
Connect with other families of neurodivergent children. Support groups can provide emotional support so you don’t feel isolated; they also share resources, and offer practical advice.
10. Normalise Neurodiversity and Advocate for Your Child:
Help your child and others understand that neurodiversity is a natural part of human variation. Emphasise that being neurodivergent doesn’t make them less, just different in some ways. Be your child’s advocate in educational settings and other areas of life. Ensure they have the accommodations they need to succeed and that their rights are respected.
Remember, every child is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. The key is to be attentive to your child’s individual needs and to approach challenges with empathy and creativity. Don’t be afraid to seek support, whether it is from family, friends or professionals.
- Written by Dr Jennifer Greene
To meet with a professional psychologist or counsellor, call The Other Clinic at 8809 0659 or email us hello@theotherclinic.sg.