Advocating for your neurodivergent child

---

Posted on May 2, 2024

---

The best way to advocate for your neurodivergent child is to understand what makes them unique. Children who think differently, like those with autism, ADHD, or other special ways of thinking, offer a world of different experiences and viewpoints.

Neurodiversity is a term for different ways of thinking, like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, or Tourette's syndrome. It helps us talk about differences in a positive way, focusing on what makes neurodivergent people special.

Neurotypical means people who don't think differently. Their brains work like what society considers “normal”. Because of this, places like schools and workplaces often fit their needs. And neurodiversity encourages us to widen how we see "normal" and for it to include everyone.

Raising a neurodivergent child teaches you a lot. You learn about their needs, how they learn, and how they like to communicate. This helps you become more patient and understanding. Challenges can become an opportunity for personal growth, as a parent.

How can parents help their neurodivergent child?

Every child is different, so what helps one might not help another. You should talk to your family GP, healthcare providers, ask questions, and learn about your child's diagnosis and treatments.

Advocating for your neurodivergent child

It’s crucial that that you advocate for child to ensure they're getting the support they need, both in healthcare and educational settings.

Advocating for your neurodivergent child is important because it ensures they get the support they need, like extra help in school or therapy. It also helps them get things that can support them, such as resources or services. Advocacy makes your child feel stronger and promotes equality, teaching them self-advocacy skills can foster an inclusive environment.

Supporting your child at home and school

At home, create a safe space for your child to be themselves. Let them explore what they like and plan activities that suit them. For example, if they need to move around a lot, make sure they have space to play safely. If they are sensitive to light or noise, adjust things at home to make them comfortable. In school or social settings, you might pack their lunch and bring their favourite foods. You can also work with the teachers to find ways to help them focus or deal with noise in class.

What treatments and therapies are available?

This depends on your child's needs. For conditions like ADHD, a mix of medicine and therapy might help. Some kids might need extra educational needs or speech therapy. For autism, treatments like speech and language therapy might help. Your doctor might also suggest medication for certain behaviours.

Support for children with autism

Autistic children might need treatments tailored to them. This could include therapy or medication. They might also have other medical or mental health concerns, like epilepsy, stomach problems, sleep issues, ADHD, or anxiety.

You might feel alone when you or your child are first diagnosed. But there are places you can get support.

You can get help from:

• your GP or the autism assessment team that diagnosed you
• your child’s school
• local support groups
• national charities
• your local council

Talking to your child and celebrating neurodiversity

When you talk to your child about their diagnosis, stay positive. Point out their strengths and that everyone faces challenges. Knowing more about themselves can help them get what they need.

When a child feels good about who they are, it helps them feel confident and happy, which is good for their mental health.

And adopting a neurodivergent child is a journey of love and growth. It's a chance to celebrate differences and make the world more inclusive.

Whether you are ready to begin your adoption journey or are just looking for more information.

You can either contact us for a chat over the phone or why not join us at one of our information events? They are the perfect place to find out more about adoption and the support we offer you every step of the way.

Or get in touch with us by calling 01902 55 3818 or email info@adoptionatheart.org.uk

---