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How can I raise a neurodivergent child well? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

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  SPEAKER_00: Raising a neurodivergent child is something lots of parents and carers ask about.
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  SPEAKER_00: Neurodivergent describes children whose brains work differently, for example with ADHD, autism, or learning differences.
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  SPEAKER_00: Everyday things like listening, switching activities, or handling big feelings can need extra support, and asking how to do this well shows how much you care.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now, a useful question to ask is what does my child need from you right now?
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  SPEAKER_00: Often the answers to feel understood first, so try reflecting back what you see, such as I can see you're upset because we have to leave the park and that feels unfair.
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  SPEAKER_00: And you can hold off on fixing it or chewing them up until they feel heard.
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  SPEAKER_00: Then you might look for what's going well and name it straight away, and praising the behaviours you want to see more of.
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  SPEAKER_00: You could also set aside 5 to 15 minutes a day of one-to-one time where your child chooses the activity and you simply join in with no correcting or directing.
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  SPEAKER_00: And practical way to support yourself with this might be to start building simple routines for mornings, after schools, and bedtime and using visual checklists and timers to support them.
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  SPEAKER_00: You may also give countdown warnings at 10, 5, and 1 minute before a change of activity, provide one clear direction at a time and say what to do.
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  SPEAKER_00: You might offer small choices where you where you can, like do you want to start with maths or writing?
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  SPEAKER_00: Let your child see you're using your own calming skills and share what works with other adults in their life so everyone responds in a similar way.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now if daily life feels hard most days, if your child is struggling at school or if you're feeling exhausted or low, then you can reach out.
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  SPEAKER_00: You can speak to your GP or family doctor, your child school or nursery support team or a therapist who works with neurodivergent children.
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  SPEAKER_00: And many families get help putting these strategies in place and shaping them around their own child.
• 1:51
  SPEAKER_00: And support for you counts as support for your child as well.
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  SPEAKER_00: Now you can also go about to raising a neurodivergent child resources in the app for further support around this.
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  SPEAKER_00: And if you are thinking about harming yourself or feeling safe, then please seek urgent help by contacting your local emergency number or a crisis helpline.