Embrace and celebrate your child’s unique traits and strengths. Help them see their neurodivergence as a part of who they are, not a flaw to be fixed.

• Recognize that your child’s neurodivergence is a key part of their identity and embrace it as a strength.
• Focus on what makes your child unique and celebrate their perspective on the world.
• Help them feel valued by highlighting their talents and interests.

Practical Examples:

• Compliment your child’s creativity when they come up with an unconventional solution to a problem.
• Read books or watch shows that feature neurodivergent characters to help them see relatable role models.
• Create a “brag board” at home where they can showcase their achievements, no matter how small.

Teach emotional regulation by modeling calmness and patience. Neurodivergent kids often experience heightened emotions, and a regulated caregiver can help co-regulate during difficult moments.

• Teach your child how to recognize and manage their emotions by modeling these skills yourself.
• Stay calm and supportive when they are overwhelmed, and use calming strategies to help them feel safe.
• Encourage activities that help regulate their emotions, such as movement, music, or sensory play.

Practical Examples:

• Create a “calm corner” with soft lighting, fidget tools, and noise-canceling headphones for them to retreat to.
• When your child has a meltdown, say, “It’s okay to feel upset. Let’s breathe together until it feels better.”
• Practice daily mindfulness activities like deep breathing or yoga together as a family.

Structure and routine are essential for many neurodivergent children. Clearly outline expectations and transitions to help reduce anxiety and build trust.

• Consistency in routines helps reduce anxiety and allows your child to feel secure.
• Clearly communicate transitions between activities to avoid surprises.
• Use visual schedules, timers, or charts to provide structure.

Practical Examples:

• Set a morning routine with visual steps (e.g., pictures of brushing teeth, eating breakfast, and getting dressed).
• Give a 5-minute warning before switching from playtime to dinner.
• Use a weekly calendar with stickers or magnets to show upcoming activities like appointments or school events.

Focus on what your child excels at or enjoys rather than solely addressing deficits. Strengths can become pathways to growth and confidence.

• Focus on what your child is good at and use their interests to motivate them.
• Build confidence by celebrating progress rather than perfection.
• Help them connect their strengths to real-world opportunities.

Practical Examples:

If your child loves animals, involve them in a local pet care program or research animal facts together.

• Turn a child’s love of building into a STEM hobby by introducing them to coding or robotics.
• If they excel at drawing, encourage them to design thank-you cards for family and friends.

Speak in clear, concise, and direct language. Use visual aids or other tools if your child responds better to non-verbal cues.

• Use straightforward, simple language, avoiding metaphors or sarcasm unless you know they understand them.
• Reinforce verbal communication with visual aids or written instructions if needed.
• Repeat and clarify instructions as necessary, ensuring they feel supported.

Practical Examples:

• Instead of saying, “Clean your room,” break it into steps like, “First, put the toys in the box. Then, fold the clothes.”
• Use a whiteboard to write down daily tasks, crossing them off together as they’re completed.
• Pair spoken directions with gestures or images for clarity, like pointing to their coat when saying, “Time to put this on.”

Be your child’s strongest advocate in educational, medical, and social settings. Understand their rights and ensure they receive the accommodations and respect they deserve.

• Learn your child’s rights in school and medical systems, and speak up for their needs.
• Share information about their neurodivergence with others to create understanding.
• Partner with professionals who understand and respect your child’s needs.

Practical Examples:

• Request an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meeting to secure classroom accommodations.
• Explain your child’s sensory sensitivities to extended family before holiday gatherings.
• Find a pediatrician or therapist who specializes in neurodivergent children and values your input.

Teach your child to understand and express their needs in ways that feel comfortable for them. Support them in making choices, even when it means stepping back.

• Encourage your child to express their needs and preferences in ways that work for them.
• Give them opportunities to make decisions and learn from mistakes.
• Teach them to set boundaries and seek help when needed.

Practical Examples:

• Let your child choose between two outfits or meals to practice decision-making.
• Role-play scenarios like asking a teacher for extra time on an assignment.
• Create a script or visual chart to help them express when they feel overwhelmed, like “I need a break.”

Neurodivergent children may require more time to process, learn, or transition. Adapt your approach when necessary, recognizing that growth often comes in their own time and way.

• Recognize that your child’s progress may not follow typical timelines, and that’s okay.
• Adapt your expectations to fit their developmental stage and capabilities.
• Be willing to try different approaches when something doesn’t work.

Practical Examples:

• If your child resists writing by hand, let them type or dictate their thoughts instead.
• If they struggle with bedtime routines, experiment with different calming techniques like reading or aromatherapy.
• Allow extra time for transitions, like getting ready to leave the house, without rushing them.

Build a community of understanding professionals, friends, and family members. Seek out resources, parent groups, or therapy to support both you and your child.

• Build a network of people who understand and can support you and your child.
• Seek professional guidance when needed, such as therapy or parent training.
• Connect with other parents of neurodivergent children to share experiences.

Practical Examples:

• Join a local or online support group for parents of neurodivergent kids.
• Schedule regular check-ins with your child’s teacher or therapist to collaborate on strategies.
• Find a babysitter or respite care provider who has experience with neurodivergent children.

Prioritize your own mental and physical health. A well-rested and supported caregiver is better equipped to provide the patience and love their neurodivergent child needs.

• Recognize that caring for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for you to show up fully for your child.
• Set boundaries and ask for help when you need it.
• Prioritize rest, hobbies, and emotional support.

Practical Examples:

• Schedule a weekly hour for yourself to read, exercise, or catch up with friends.
• Ask a trusted family member to watch your child while you take a break or run errands.
• Consider seeing a therapist or counselor to work through stress and build resilience.