Parenting a Neurodivergent Child? Why "Traditional" Parenting Advice Might Not Work (And What to Do Instead)
- Sarah Hardy
- Feb 21
- 2 min read
If parenting your neurodivergent child feels harder than it “should,” you’re not alone. Many parents feel lost when typical parenting strategies don’t work for their child with ADHD or Autism.
Traditional parenting advice is based on neurotypical children. It often doesn’t take into account sensory sensitivities, executive functioning struggles, demand avoidance, or emotional regulation challenges that come with neurodivergent brains.
That doesn’t mean you’re failing as a parent. It means you need a different approach—one that meets your child where they are instead of where society says they "should" be.
👉 That’s why I created the Neurodiversity Parenting Activity Guide—a simple, interactive resource for parents and young children (ages 6+) to learn about neurodiversity together.
What If Parenting Looked Different—And That Was Okay?
Many neurodivergent children experience demand avoidance—where even simple requests (like getting dressed or brushing their teeth) can cause big emotions and resistance. This isn’t defiance—it’s often their nervous system protecting them from feeling overwhelmed or out of control.
📌 This is where Low-Demand Parenting comes in. Instead of pushing harder and battling meltdowns, low-demand parenting removes unnecessary pressure and allows the child to feel safe and build autonomy. It’s not about giving up—it’s about choosing which battles really matter.
✔ If sitting at the dinner table is too much, let them eat while moving.
✔ If bedtime routines are a battle, adjust your expectations.
✔ If schoolwork causes shutdowns, explore alternative ways to learn.
Neurodiversity is not an excuse. It’s an explanation and an invitation to support your child in ways that actually work for them.
What’s Inside This Free Parenting & Neurodiversity Resource?
Education for Parents & Kids – Learn about ADHD, Autism, and neurodivergence together in simple, child-friendly language.🎨
Engaging Activities – Interactive exercises that help kids understand their brains & emotions.
Practical Parenting Strategies – Low-demand parenting tips that reduce stress, meltdowns, and frustration
Evidence-Based Research
This guide will help you:
✅ Shift your parenting mindset from "should" to "what works for my child."
✅ Discover strategies that reduce stress for both parent and child.
✅ Build connection and self-acceptance within your family.
I know how hard it is to parent when the world constantly tells you that you’re "too soft" or "doing it wrong."
As a qualified ADHD Coach, Psychology graduate, and parent with lived experience, I created this resource because I wish I had something like this when I was navigating neurodivergence in my own family.
📌 My Background:
✔ First-Class Degree in Psychology, Psychotherapy & Counselling
✔ Counselling Skills Level 2 & 3 Trained
✔ Currently Studying a Master’s in Positive Psychology & Coaching
✔ Certified ADHD Coach (& In-House Coach at ADHD Works)
✔ Enhanced DBS Checked
I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all parenting—I believe in meeting your child where they are, supporting their needs, and letting go of the pressure to parent how society says you "should."
Download the Free Parenting & Neurodiversity Activity Guide
📌 This resource is designed to make neurodivergent parenting easier, not harder.
#Neurodiversity #ADHDParenting #AutismParenting #LowDemandParenting #ParentingDifferently #ADHDKids #AutismSupport
