Tag: signs of autism
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Finding Acceptance: My Social Journey with AuDHD
The author reflects on their challenging experiences with socialization as an AuDHD individual. They recount feeling tolerated rather than included, facing bullying, and navigating workplace social dynamics that led to mental health struggles. Ultimately, through connecting with accepting peers, they rediscover their identity, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and self-acceptance.
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Tips for Meltdowns at the Dinner Table: What Works for Us
Mealtimes in our house are where meltdowns are most likely to erupt. And since meals happen three times a day, you can imagine the deep sighing that goes on around here. Both of my boys ate everything as babies. During weaning, nothing was off-limits—they happily devoured small, slightly mushy versions of our meals. I thought…
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When Transitions Get in the Way of Life: The Autistic Petrol Station Drama
If you’re anything like me, you’ll know this scene all too well. You’re driving home, and the fuel light has been flashing for the past two days. You’ve passed several petrol stations, mentally prepping yourself each time to pull in and fill up. But as the station looms closer, you just… drive past. Again. By…
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Helping Neurodivergent Kids Get Ready for School—My Personal Approach
If you have neurodivergent kids, you’ll likely know the joy of navigating the seemingly insurmountable task of getting them ready for the day. Simple things like getting dressed, brushing teeth, and putting on shoes can feel like scaling Everest while juggling flaming torches. In our house, mornings used to be a battleground. Large Child (5…
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Understanding Autistic Overwhelm: A Personal Journey
For the last few years, I’ve been on a mission to figure out how my brain works. I like answers—clear, concrete, and definitive answers to any challenge I face. Unfortunately, this journey doesn’t come with many of those. Since my teenage years, I’ve been a tightly wound ball of anxiety and stress. It’s as though…
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Handling School When Your Child Is Facing Autistic Burnout
Between Christmas and Easter during Large Child’s first year at school, things started to settle. Or so I thought. But one persistent issue kept cropping up: exhaustion. Large Child cried every day before school, saying it was “too much.” But sometimes, the cries were different—deep, guttural sobs. His face was pale, his eyes glazed. As…
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Autistic Masking: What to Do When School Can’t See Your Kid Isn’t Coping
During Large Child’s first term at school, I started hearing reports that he was “coping much better.” The tears had lessened, he was staying calm, and while he was still virtually mute, the feedback was sparkling. The reality at home told a very different story. Every day after school was a battle. The moment we…
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Starting School with Autism: Our Struggle and What Helped My Child Cope
When my autistic son started school, we expected excitement—but instead, we faced daily meltdowns, fear, and exhaustion. Here’s how we navigated the chaos, fought for the right support, and began turning survival into progress.
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Trusting My Gut: How I Knew My Quiet Child Was Autistic Before Anyone Else Did
Suspect your child might be autistic but getting no feedback from professionals? Here’s how I trusted my gut, found an ally in my child’s reception teacher, and pushed for early support.
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Seeing Myself in My Son: Recognising Autism as a Neurodivergent Parent
When I realised my son was showing signs of autism, I was already halfway through my own diagnostic journey. What followed was an emotional rollercoaster of recognition, pride, and a deep connection I never expected.
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