Navigating Sibling Dynamics: A Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach
Sibling relationships are some of the most meaningful and complex connections in a child’s life. They can be full of joy, shared interests, and deep companionship, as well as moments of misunderstanding, overwhelm, or tension. For caregivers, supporting these relationships in ways that honor each child’s unique neurodivergent ways of thinking, feeling, and interacting helps […]
Navigating a Neurodivergent Diagnosis: A Guide for Parents Just Starting Out
Receiving a neurodivergent diagnosis for your child—whether it’s autism, ADHD, or another condition—can feel overwhelming. You might have many questions, concerns, and even worries about what this means for your child’s future. If you’re in those early stages, know this: you are not alone. And this diagnosis isn’t an endpoint—it’s the beginning of understanding, support, […]
Looking Below the Surface: Understanding Behavior as Communication in Neurodivergent Children
When we see a child act out, shut down, or behave in ways that seem “unexpected,” it’s easy to focus on what’s happening right in front of us. But what if we paused for a moment, looked deeper, and asked: What is this child trying to tell me? Especially for neurodivergent children — children who […]
What is tactile defensiveness?
(From Sensory Integration and the Child, 25th Anniversary Edition, Ayres, 2005) Tactile defensiveness is one type of sensory modulation disorder. It is the tendency to react negatively and emotionally to touch sensations. The reaction only occurs under certain conditions. Tactile sensations are constantly entering everyone’s nervous system; however, most individuals are able to inhibit their […]
What is sensory modulation disorder?
(From Sensational Kids, Miller, 2006) Sensory Modulation Disorder is a chronic and severe problem involving the ability to turn sensory information into behaviors that match the nature and intensity of the sensation. Children with difficulties modulating sensory input may under-respond to sensation, over-respond to sensation, seek intense sensation, or display a mixture of the three. […]
What is Occupational Therapy?
From the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA): In its simplest terms, occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants help people across the lifespan participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities (occupations). Common occupational therapy interventions include helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school and […]