What I Wish I Knew When My Daughter Was First Diagnosed
TIMELINE & LINKS/RESOURCES
00:00 Welcome to Neuro Positive Podcast
00:24 Understanding Neurodivergence
01:54 Taking Time to Process
04:35 Your Child is Still the Same
08:09 Development is Not Linear
12:14 It's Okay to Cry
14:54 Making Informed Decisions
17:22 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Today's episode is especially for parents and caregivers of newly identified neurodivergent children. Even if you're a friend or family member, continue reading, as there is a lot to learn about how to better support your loved ones.
Neurodivergence refers to brains that are wired differently from what is considered neurotypical. It encompasses a variety of conditions beyond autism and ADHD, including OCD, dyslexia, anxiety, and depression. If your child has been recently identified as neurodivergent, take comfort in knowing that you're not alone, and there are steps you can take to support them effectively. Here are things I wish someone told me when my daughter was first diagnosed:
It’s Okay to Pause and Process First
One of the first things I wish someone had told me is the importance of taking a pause. When my daughter was identified as autistic, the urge to dive into every piece of information was overwhelming. Remember, it's okay to slow down and process this new information. Allow yourself the time to sort through your feelings and understand how you need to move forward.
2. Your Child Hasn't Changed
It's essential to remind yourself that your child is the same as they were before their diagnosis. What you have now is more information to better meet their needs. Embrace your child as they are, enjoy your time with them, and be present. This understanding will help deepen your relationship and provide a more supportive environment for your child.
3. Don't Compare, Celebrate Uniqueness
Children develop at their own pace, and neurodivergent children are no different. Avoid comparisons to others and instead focus on the unique strengths and journey of your child. Celebrate their milestones, no matter how they measure up to societal norms.
4. It’s Okay to Cry
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and to cry. The world might not always understand your child's needs, which can be heartbreaking. Allow yourself to express these emotions as they are a normal part of the journey. Crying can be a cathartic release that helps you process and move through big emotions.
5. Go Slow and Ask Questions
In the early days after a diagnosis, there is a temptation to try all therapies available. Be discerning, ask questions, and trust your instincts about what feels right for your child. It’s perfectly okay to say no or not right now. You can always reassess as circumstances change.
Conclusion
Remember to take your time and be there for your neurodivergent child. They will navigate a world not always tailored to their needs, making your presence and understanding crucial. Enjoy your child, rest, and provide a loving environment that allows for them to thrive.
Thank you for joining me on this journey, and remember, you are not alone. Together, we can create a more inclusive world that celebrates neurodiversity.