As a parent, you want the very best for your child, especially if they have support needs for learning. You may have come across the term "Specially Designed Instruction" (SDI) in the context of your child's IEP. But what exactly does it mean, and how can it benefit your child? Let’s break down the concept of Specially Designed Instruction in simple terms, helping you understand its importance and how it can make a positive impact on your child's education. It’s one of the most important parts of your child’s IEP! Specially Designed Instruction, often referred to as SDI is a personalized and tailored approach to teaching and supporting students with disabilities. SDI takes into account the unique needs of each child, ensuring that their educational experience is as effective and meaningful as possible. Key Components of Specially Designed Instruction Individualization: The core of SDI is individualization. It means that the instruction is designed specifically for your child, taking into consideration their strengths, weaknesses, and learning style. No two children are the same, and SDI recognizes this fact. Goals and Objectives: In collaboration with educators and specialists, specific goals and objectives are set for your child. These objectives are customized to address the areas in which your child may be struggling or need extra support. They provide a roadmap for their progress. Accommodations and Modifications: Teachers make accommodations and modifications to the curriculum and instructional methods to meet your child's unique needs. This may include using alternative teaching materials, technologies, or teaching methods to make learning more accessible. Progress Monitoring/Assessment: To track your child's progress and adjust instruction as needed, progress monitoring or frequent assessment is a vital component of SDI. Educators continuously evaluate how well the goals and objectives are being met and make necessary adjustments. Overwhelmed with SDI and other elements of your kid's IEP? Know that there is support out there to help you navigate the world of special education and learning and help you advocate for the best learning for YOUR kid! Your first coaching session is free to get you started: CLICK HERE TO SCHEDULE Why is Specially Designed Instruction Important? Maximizing Potential: SDI allows your child to reach their full potential. By tailoring instruction to their unique needs, they can progress academically and develop essential life skills. Building Confidence: When children receive instruction that meets their abilities, it boosts their self-confidence. They feel capable of tackling challenges and achieving success. Fostering Independence: By addressing specific challenges and providing appropriate support, SDI empowers children to become more independent in their learning. Inclusion and Equity: Specially Designed Instruction promotes inclusive education . It ensures that all students, regardless of their disabilities, have an equitable opportunity to learn and thrive. Meeting Legal Requirements: In the United States, there are legal requirements for providing children with disabilities appropriate education through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Specially Designed Instruction helps schools meet these legal obligations. Specially Designed Instruction is a personalized and invaluable approach to educating children with disabilities. It recognizes that every child is unique and deserves an education that caters to their specific needs. By working closely with your child's school, teachers, and special education team, you can ensure that Specially Designed Instruction is in place to help your child succeed academically and in life. Remember, you are your child's biggest advocate, and with the right support, they can achieve, learn, and grow to the maximum extent possible! If a child can't learn the way we teach, maybe we should teach the way they learn. ~Ignacio Edwards Have questions? Need some specific support or guidance? Schedule a time for us to chat HERE ! Inclusiveology offers your first coaching session free to get you started on how to support your neurodivergent kid in the best learning possible. We want to help you!

Let's get creative when considering how to support kids that struggle with executive functioning, skills that help kids focus, make decisions, and plan. Let’s take a look and discover some fun ways to accommodate and boost these crucial skills in our little thinkers. Check these out... Time for Transitions Ah, the art of transitioning from one activity to another – a challenge for both the youngest and the wisest... Sometimes, it's even challenging for us! To make these shifts smoother, create a learning space or classroom schedule with visual cues. Bright and engaging images representing different activities will guide your kids from one task to the next. Wave goodbye to chaos and embrace the charm of structured transitions! Bonus: Visual cues and supports increase independence, too! Where are My Crayons? Picture this: you hand out a bunch of crayons to your tiny creators, only to see them become enchanted by the mere existence of these rainbow-hued tools. Now, imagine taking it up a notch by organizing supplies in labeled containers. Not only does this promote tidiness (kudos, organization skills!), but it also saves valuable learning time, letting kids focus on the art of creation. Thoughts and Doodles Sometimes, kids can get lost in the maze of their ideas. To help them navigate, introduce mind mapping – a creative, visual way to organize thoughts. Encourage kids to draw doodles and jot down keywords related to a topic. This not only sparks imaginative thinking but also nurtures skills like planning, categorization, and memory recall. Graphic organizers are a great tool to help with organizing thoughts. Choices for the Win Empower your kids by letting them have a say in their learning journey. Offer them choices within boundaries, like selecting between reading a story or watching an educational video. This teaches decision-making and boosts their self-regulation skills. And hey, if a mini debate about the merits of story vs. video erupts, you've just facilitated a lesson on communication and negotiation! Gimme a Break! Learning is a marathon, not a sprint, and our kids need regular pit stops. Introduce short brain breaks that involve playful activities like stretching, dancing, or even some controlled breathing exercises. These breaks refuel their attention spans and give their executive functioning a delightful workout! Ready, Aim, Fire Make goals achievable. Collaborate with your kids to set realistic targets for the day. Whether it's completing a certain number of math problems or finishing a creative writing activity, these mini steps nurture their ability to plan, prioritize, and experience the joy of accomplishment. Make goals achievable on their IEP, too! Goals should be SMART: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timed. Executive function strategies help students to go beyond the content that is being taught, so that learning is process-based rather than only out-come based. ~Dr. Lynn Meltzer Let's make learning fun and creative to accommodate and supercharge executive functioning in our kids. Remember, every high-five for a completed task, every burst of laughter during a brain break, and every "aha!" moment in their eyes is a testament to your incredible role in shaping their future. What more information, fun ideas, and ways to reflect your kiddo's needs in an IEP or 504 Plan? Schedule a free consultation with Inclusiveology right HERE ! Let's get you started...

Imagine going on a treasure hunt where every clue, every challenge, is uniquely tailored to your strengths and abilities. Cool, right? Now, envision navigating the educational journey as a kid who learns differently, facing obstacles that make this hunt feel insurmountable. Learning accommodations step in as the compass, guiding kids toward success, growth, and a sense of accomplishment. And remove barriers to learning! Celebrating Individuality Every kid possesses a distinct set of skills, passions, and challenges. Learning accommodations are like personalized pathways that honor this individuality, recognizing that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to education. This is key! From adjusted assignments that align with a kid's learning pace to assistive technologies that enhance communication and support with engagement and accessibility, accommodations celebrate the diverse ways in which kids with disabilities and learning differences engage with the world around them. It's so important to have the right accommodations for your kid! Choosing accommodations is never a "one size fits all"... Opportunities with Equity An equitable education is a door that can open so many opportunities. However, for kids with disabilities, some doors may seem impenetrable without the right key. Learning accommodations act as these keys, unlocking doors that lead to knowledge, personal growth, and the realization of potential. For example, when a kid with dyscalculia (challenges with numbers) is provided with extra time during exams or a kid that is not reading on grade level yet receives materials in more accessible formats, the playing field is leveled. Accommodations ensure that every kid can participate, contribute, and excel without the barriers that classrooms and learning might otherwise impose. Boosting Confidence Think back to a time when you learned a new skill or accomplished a challenging task. The surge of confidence that followed is a feeling we can relate to! For kids with disabilities, this feeling is doubly empowering. Learning accommodations offer opportunities for success, enabling them to build a strong sense of self-confidence. When a kid with attention difficulties utilizes a fidget tool that helps them focus, or a student with dyslexia benefits from audiobooks to access literature, they're not just learning; they're rising above challenges. Each small victory contributes to their growing self-esteem, helping them recognize their unique strengths. Supporting Inclusion Every kid is nurtured and celebrated in an inclusive community. Learning accommodations serve as tools to make that happen! By implementing accommodations, we foster an inclusive environment where all kids can learn side by side, regardless of their abilities. This not only benefits kids with disabilities but also creates a rich and diverse learning atmosphere where empathy, understanding, and mutual respect can continue to grow. Accommodations aren't just learning tools; they are bridges that connect kids with disabilities to the world of education, understanding, and growth. These bridges ensure that every kid, regardless of their challenges, can journey confidently through their learning. As educators and parents, it's our responsibility to advocate for and implement these accommodations, fostering an environment where kids with disabilities are empowered to learn and grow. Let’s open up a world of possibilities! Need more information or support? Know We're Here to Help! If you encounter challenges in obtaining the RIGHT support for your kid, consider reaching out to us  for coaching and support. We want to help you help your kid get the best education possible. Grab a spot on our calendar to get started for free. Remember, you  are your kid's greatest advocate. By proactively engaging with the educational system, staying informed, and building collaborative relationships, you can navigate the challenges and ensure your kid receives the support they need to thrive in their educational journey.

In schools across the country, there are kids with unique needs, each requiring tailored support to be their most successful. Among them are kids on the autism spectrum, who often face challenges in navigating the social world around them. But what if there was an easy-to-use tool that could bridge this gap, making the school environment more accessible and less daunting? Enter social stories. What are Social Stories? Social stories are simple narratives that break down social situations or concepts into smaller, more understandable parts.  Like “digestible bites”!  They're designed to help kids with autism understand social cues, expectations, and appropriate behaviors in various situations. Whether it's navigating the lunchroom, participating in group activities, or following classroom routines, social stories provide a roadmap for understanding and navigating the social world. The Importance of Social Stories in School For autistic kids, school can sometimes be overwhelming. The constant sensory stimuli, unpredictable social interactions, and complex routines can lead to anxiety and confusion. This is where social stories shine. By presenting information in a clear, structured way, social stories empower autistic kids to anticipate and prepare for what's to come, reducing anxiety and increasing their confidence in social situations. Peri's Story: A Morning Routine Made Easier! Last year, I worked with Peri’s family on creating supports that would make school more accessible and enjoyable for him.  Peri was 6 years old, autistic, super smart, but struggled with transitions, especially his morning routine when he arrived at school. Mornings were rough.  Hallways could be loud and crowded and sometimes, it was hard for Peri to read the number on the door of the classroom, leaving him feeling lost and anxious. It was a game-changer when Peri was introduced to a social story that supported his morning routine.  The social story depicted each step of Peri's morning routine in simple language and was accompanied by colorful illustrations. From getting out of the car in the car circle, walking to his classroom, and unpacking his backpack, every aspect of Peri's morning arrival at school was laid out clearly in easy-to-understand language. The story also included positive affirmations and reminders to stay calm if things didn't go exactly as planned. With his social story, Peri felt more confident and less stressed each morning. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of his morning routine, he knew exactly what to expect and how to navigate each step of his routine. With practice and repetition, Peri's morning routine became smoother and more manageable for him.  He also had the support of a friend in his class (we love peer supports!) and his very kind teacher. The Impact of Social Stories Peri's story is just one example of how social stories are making a difference in the lives of autistic kids in school. By providing structure, predictability, and guidance, social stories empower autistic kids to navigate social situations with confidence and independence. They promote understanding, reduce anxiety, and foster inclusion in the school community.  Social stories are a definite WIN! In the journey of supporting autistic kids in school, social stories are invaluable tools that can make a huge difference. By breaking down complex social situations into manageable steps, social stories empower autistic kids like Peri to navigate the school environment with confidence. As educators, parents, and caregivers, let's continue to harness the power of social stories to create more inclusive and supportive learning environments for all children. Need help with social stories for your autistic kiddo? CLICK HERE  to schedule a free consultation, and let's chat about what you might need. I would love to help.

Hands-on learning can be so engaging, especially for our neurodivergent kids! Learning can look different for neurodivergent kids. Traditional methods might not always click, but that's okay. We'll think outside the box! Hands-on learning is a fantastic way to engage their minds and make learning fun. Let's explore some creative ways to use common materials like Legos, Unifix cubes, pom-poms, and magnetic letters to enhance reading, writing, and math skills. Sometimes having hands-on materials, helps learning make sense! Legos & Unifix Cubes! Math:  Create number towers by stacking Legos to represent different numbers. Create ones, tens, and hundreds to understand place value. Use them for patterning. And... both of these "learning tools" are great for building fine motor skills! Reading:  Build words and sentences using Legos with letter stickers. Pom-Poms! Math:  Count pom-poms and sort them by color, size, or texture. Use them to begin adding single digit addition equations or to show sets with less or more. Sensory: Pom-poms can be used in place of blocks or other hard counters for kids that need sesnory supports while learning. Magnetic or Scrabble Letters! Reading:  Spell out words on a magnetic board, practicing letter sounds, decoding/phonics and word recognition. Writing:  Use magnetic letters to write sentences and stories, encouraging creativity and language skills. Extra Bonus: When you use these hands-on learning tools with your kids, you're modeling and showing them what to do. Building confidence and independence all while having fun and learning. Might this help support confidence, independence, and flexible learning in the future? It just might. Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn . ~Benjamin Franklin Community for IEP and Learning Supports Join the IEP & Learning Support for Moms of Neurodivergent Kids Community! We love sharing fun, tools and strategies to maximize learning. These are just a few ideas to get you started. We love creating ideas and thinking outside the box so your kid has the best learning possible.

The holiday season can be fun, but it can also be a source of stress and anxiety for kids with sensory concerns. Here are ten simple and fun strategies to help alleviate stress and hopefully prevent meltdowns! 1. Maintain Routine: While holiday traditions are exciting, try to maintain your child's daily routine as much as possible. Consistent routines can provide reassurance and reduce anxiety. 2. Sensory-Friendly Activities: Plan activities that cater to your child's sensory needs. Sensory bins, quiet play areas, and calming activities like coloring or puzzles can be helpful. 3. Limit Overwhelming Stimuli: Reduce exposure to loud noises, bright lights, and large crowds. Consider attending smaller gatherings or leaving early if your child becomes overwhelmed. 4. Visual Schedules: Use visual schedules or social stories to help your child understand what to expect during the holidays. This can reduce anxiety and help them prepare for transitions. 5. Prepare for Changes: Talk to your child about upcoming changes, such as visiting new places or meeting new people. Use simple language and visual aids to explain what to expect. 6. Sensory Breaks: Designate quiet spaces where your child can retreat to when they need a break from the festivities. Sensory tools like weighted blankets or noisecanceling headphones can also be helpful. 7. Limit Sugar and Caffeine: These substances can exacerbate hyperactivity and mo swings. Opt for healthier snacks and drinks to keep your child calm and focused. 8. Positive Reinforcement: Reward positive behavior with praise and small rewards. This can help motivate your child to cooperate and reduce challenging behaviors. 9. Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to other parents and “borrow” their great strategies, too! 10. Self-Care for Parents: Remember to prioritize your own well-being. Take breaks, practice self-care, and enjoy your holidays, too! Have questions about learning supports and self-regulation in school to help with focus and attention? Grab your coffee and let's chat!

Being a parent of a kid with autism or other disability can make the whole Individual Education Program (IEP) process feel pretty daunting. Getting involved is super important to make sure your child gets the right support and services. You know your kid the best, so get in on the action! Here are six tips to help you confidently advocate for what your child needs: 1. Understand Your Kid's Strengths and Needs: Know Your Kid's Profile:  Take the time to understand your kid's unique learning style, strengths, and challenges. Don't forget, you're your kid's first teacher! Gather Information:  Collect data from various sources, including teachers, therapists, and your own observations, to build a comprehensive picture of your child's abilities. 2. Educate Yourself About the IEP Process: Familiarize Yourself with the Basics:  Learn about the key components of an IEP, including present levels of performance, annual goals, and special education and related services. Hint: These components should all be connected! Understand Your Rights:  Know your rights as a parent, including the right to participate in the IEP meeting, request evaluations, and appeal decisions. 3. Prepare for IEP Meetings: Set Clear Goals:  Develop specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for your kid. Advocate for Your Kid's Best Interests:  Be assertive and advocate for your kid's needs, while maintaining a collaborative approach with the IEP team. Ask Informed Questions:  Prepare a list of questions to ask the IEP team, focusing on your kid's needs and how the proposed services will address them. If you need a place to ask questions, find resources, and get support, join us in IEP & Learning Supports for Moms of Neurodivergent Kids 4. Build Strong Relationships with School Personnel: Communicate Regularly:  Establish open and honest communication with your kid's teachers and other school staff. Collaborate Effectively:  Work together to develop strategies to support your kid's learning and social-emotional development. Be Proactive:  Don't hesitate to reach out to school staff if you have concerns or need additional support. 5. Consider Working with a Parent Coach: Gain Expert Guidance:  A parent coach can provide valuable support and guidance throughout the IEP process. Learn Effective Advocacy Strategies:  They can teach you how to advocate effectively for your kid's needs and navigate complex educational systems. Build Confidence:  A parent coach can help you build confidence in your abilities to advocate for your kid. 6. Empower Your Kid: Involve Your Kid in the Process:  As appropriate, involve your kild in decision-making about their education and goals. Teach Self-Advocacy Skills:  Help your kid develop the skills to advocate for themselves, such as expressing their needs and preferences. Foster a Positive Mindset:  Encourage a positive and growth-oriented mindset, emphasizing your kid's strengths and abilities. Take the Next Step: Schedule a Free Consultation Get in the game and take control of your kid's education and guide them to reach their full potential. Schedule a free consultation  with DJ Nicholson, a parent education and IEP coach, to learn how you can become a powerful advocate for your kid. Mamas! Make a huge difference in your kid's educational journey. I'm here whenever you're ready!

Every kid should get what they need to be successful in school regardless of disability or neurodivergence. For parents of these amazing kids, school systems and the learning process can be particularly daunting, often requiring advocacy and a proactive approach to ensure that your kid receives the support they need. Here are some practical first steps to empower you in navigating the educational system for your kid with a disability or neurodivergence. Grow Your Knowledge Begin by knowing what's possible for your kid regardless of disability. Understanding the challenges and strengths associated with it will not only help you advocate effectively but also enable you to communicate more clearly with educators and specialists. Build Relationships Establish open lines of communication with your kid's teachers, therapists, and school administrators. Attend parent-teacher conferences and special education meetings to foster a collaborative relationship with the school team. Building these connections creates a supportive network for your kid. Know What's in Your Child’s IEP An IEP is a personalized plan tailored to your kid's unique needs. Is everything your kid needs included? Are there supports for all areas? Is your kid included in learning with typical peers in general education? Be an active member of your kid’s IEP team. Be specific about your kid's strengths, challenges, and the support you believe they require. Shouldn't your kid be included in learning with all of the supports, tools, and resources to be their absolute best? YES. I'd love to support you on your journey; schedule a free consultation  to get started. Know What Your Rights are as a Parent Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations governing special education, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Understanding your rights and those of your kid will empower you to advocate effectively and ensure they receive the services to which they are entitled. Document Everything Maintain a detailed record of your kid's academic and social progress, as well as any concerns or challenges. This documentation can serve as valuable evidence in discussions with educators and can be crucial in IEP meetings or if you ever need to escalate your concerns. Be Bold and Assertive Clearly communicate your expectations and concerns. Be assertive in expressing your kid's needs and the accommodations you believe will be beneficial. Your role as an advocate is pivotal, and a confident and respectful approach can make a significant impact. Collaborate with Specialists Work closely with any specialists or therapists involved in your kid's care. Their insights and recommendations can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of your kid's needs and inform the support strategies implemented at school. Know We're Here to Help If you encounter challenges in obtaining the RIGHT support for your kid, consider reaching out to us for coaching and support. We want to help you help your kid get the best education possible. Remember, you are your kid's greatest advocate. By proactively engaging with the educational system, staying informed, and building collaborative relationships, you can navigate the challenges and ensure your kid receives the support they need to thrive in their educational journey.

Five-year old Anthony truly was one of my most favorite students ever. He saw the world through a unique lens, with a lot of wonder, especially when it came to insects! More on that in a bit... However, he was often overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, and had a challenging time communicating what he knows. Anthony was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder; his mom and I viewed this not as a limitation, but as a guide to understanding and unlocking his abilities. His mom was determined to provide him with the tools and support he needed to thrive in a general education setting.  Going to a “self-contained” setting was not an option! At the heart of Anthony's success was my insistence that he be considered for inclusion in general education. (After all, it's an IEP team decision.) I embraced the idea that every child, regardless of their neurodivergency, could be included in learning if given the right supports. Anthony had an Individual Education Plan (IEP) that was created in close collaboration with his mom, the school's special education team, speech therapists, and occupational therapists.  We focused on Anthony’s strengths and addressed his challenges. Visual aids, a quiet corner in the classroom for moments of sensory regulation, and a designated peer buddy system were just a few elements of the comprehensive plan we put in place. Anthony’s mom worked closely with the school to reinforce the strategies used in the classroom at home. She celebrated his victories, no matter how small, and created a nurturing environment that encouraged his curiosity and individuality. Before I forget, earlier in this story, I mentioned his love of insects.  One day while walking back to the classroom from lunch, Anthony broke away from the rest of the class and ran towards the building next to ours on campus.  On the wall of the building, was a grasshopper.  Side bar:  In Florida, fully grown grasshoppers are enormous!  And, quite frankly, a little scary!  This grasshopper was 4 inches long and very colorful.  As I walked towards him, Anthony began telling me the colors.  Red, black, yellow, orange, green.  Here’s what’s incredible about these colors:  Prior to our grasshopper experience, Anthony had not shared his knowledge of colors with me in a traditional way (like via an informal assessment).  But did he know these? YES!  It was a very proud moment, and again shifted my thinking on how to support kids that are neurodivergent in unique ways and get them to “show what they know”!   Isn’t that what learning is all about? Inclusiveology helps with learning supports and inclusion. Check out our supportive group,   IEP & Learning Supports for Neurodivergent Kids  or CLICK HERE  to schedule a free consultation.   As the school year progressed, so did Anthony. His classroom supports helped him learn foundational reading skills, number sense and he was able to meet benchmarks for learning in almost all areas. We all witnessed a transformation in him that shattered preconceived notions about what a child with autism could achieve in a general education setting. Anthony was successful in school because of the collaboration, understanding, and the belief that every child deserves the chance to belong and be included. It’s time to embrace neurodiversity and create environments where every child can grow and learn. P.S. Prior to my grasshopper encounter with Anthony, I was pretty afraid of them!  Not anymore.  Thank you to my little friend, Anthony, who showed me beauty in the most interesting of insects.

Have you ever heard the phrase "presuming competence"? It's a powerful idea that can make a big difference in the lives of our kids, especially those with special needs or who are neurodivergent. What Does Presuming Competence Mean? Simply put, presuming competence means believing that every child is capable of learning and growing, regardless of their challenges. It's about seeing the unique abilities in every child and giving them the opportunities to reach it. Why Is Presuming Competence Important? When we presume competence, we: Build self-esteem: Kids feel good about themselves when they know we believe in them. They also feel good when they're included authentically with thier friends! Encourage independence:   We support kids in trying new things and making mistakes, kand we nurture them along the way. Create a positive learning environment:   A classroom where everyone feels valued and respected is a better place for all kids to learn. And, don't forget, an exceptionality or disability diagnosis DOES NOT mean that kids are placed in a separate class! Here are some examples of presuming competence in action: Instead of:   "You can't do that." Try:  "Let's figure out how we can make that work." Instead of: "You're not a good fit (for this class)." Try: "I need to figure how to best support you." Instead of:   "You're so slow." Try:  "Let's break this down into smaller steps." Instead of:  "You'll never be able to..." Try:   "With the right support, you can achieve great things." Want more information on how to presume competence for your kid and how to advocate for their inclusive school success? Grab a spot on my calendar and let's take a look at how we can work together to support your kid! Consultations are free to get you started. The Power of Inclusion and the "Least Dangerous Assumption" When we believe in our kids and provide them with the right supports, amazing things can happen. Inclusive education, where kids with and without disabilities learn together, can be incredibly supportive and nurturing for everyone. The "least dangerous assumption" is a helpful tool for educators and parents. It encourages us to make positive assumptions about our kids' abilities. For example, if a child isn't responding to a question, we might assume they might need another way to respond, rather than assuming they don't understand. Inclusiveology: Your Partner in Inclusion At Inclusiveology, we're passionate about helping kids with special needs and neurodivergent kids thrive. We offer a range of services, including: Educational coaching: for parents who want to learn more about how to maximize their kid's success in school. Find out more HERE ! Workshops on Inclusive Practices:   for parents and educators who want to grow their "tool boxes" to support ALL kids! Tools and Resources:   We offer a variety of tools and resources to support kids' learning and development, and are here for you when you have questions. When we work together, we can create a world where every is included in learning, feels valued, and respected.

After 2 back-to-back hurricanes (Helene and Milton) affected the west coast of Florida this past month, I feel compelled to capture some ideas for parents of neurodivergent kids in the hopes of providing some relief, peace, and centering.  Natural disasters can be incredibly traumatic for everyone, but they can be especially challenging for kids with unique needs. Their unique sensory processing, emotional regulation, and communication styles can make coping with the aftermath of a disaster even more difficult. Here are some tips to help support your neurodivergent kid after a natural disaster: 1. Create a Safe Space Ensure your kid has a designated safe space that is quiet, comfortable, and free from clutter. This can be a bedroom, a corner of the living room, or even a tent set up indoors. Make sure this space is well-lit and filled with familiar objects  to provide a sense of security. 2. Maintain a Consistent Routine As much as possible, try to stick to your kid's regular routine. This can provide a sense of normalcy and stability during a chaotic time.  Even if it’s as simple as the morning and bedtime routine, that can make a big difference! If your routine has been disrupted, try to re-establish it gradually. 3. Communicate Openly and Honestly: Talk to your kid about what happened in a way that is age-appropriate and understandable. Be honest about the situation, but avoid overwhelming them with too much information at once. Encourage your kid to express their feelings and concerns. 4. Validate Their Emotions It's important to acknowledge and validate your kid's feelings, even if they seem exaggerated or irrational.   Let them know that it's okay to feel scared, angry, or sad. 5. Provide Sensory Stimulation Engage in activities that provide sensory stimulation , such as playing with sensory bins, listening to calming music, or taking a warm bath. These activities can help regulate your kid's emotions and reduce anxiety. 6. Limit Screen Time Excessive screen time can contribute to anxiety and stress. Try to limit your kid's screen time, especially before bed. 7. Connect with Other Parents Connecting with other parents who have kids with neurodivergence can provide support, understanding, and practical advice. Look for local support groups or online communities.  Inclusiveology has one HERE if you have specific questions or want to talk about some different ideas! 8. Take Care of Yourself It's important to take care of yourself so that you can better care for your kid!  After a disaster or trauma, that sure is hard… Make sure to get enough sleep, eat healthy meals, and find time for self-care (taking a walk, stretching, yoga, or breathwork and meditation). 9. Be Patient and Understanding Remember that healing takes time. Be patient with your kid and understand that they may experience setbacks along the way. Sometimes, these tips work for us, too!  During Hurricane Milton, I made sure I had my favorite sweatshirt, coffee mug, and pillow.  It often is the little things that can comfort us the most.   That… and amazing friends that took me in when I evacuated, awesome pugs that snuggled in, and my neighborhood and community that I was so happy to come home to!

As an educational coach that supports moms of neurodivergent kids with high support needs, I have seen firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions that can accompany this journey. The challenges can often feel overwhelming, but amidst the storm, there is a glimmer of hope, a beacon of strength that guides you through. That light is grace and gratitude. Your Kid is Full of Strength and Creativity Kids, despite the hurdles they face, are brimming with strength and creativity. Their unique perspectives and ways of thinking can be a source of inspiration for us all. They often possess a resilience and determination that is truly awe-inspiring. And when we believe that THEY CAN… everything is possible! Your Kid is Capable of Growing to Their Full “Amazingness”! Remember, your kid is capable of reaching their full potential. With the right support, they can overcome challenges and achieve incredible things. It's important to believe in them, to nurture their passions, and to provide them with the tools they need to succeed. And when others tell you “No they can’t.”, you can tell them “NOT YET.”! Your Kid is Still Able to Be as Independent as Possible Independence is a goal for many parents of neurodivergent kid. While it may look different for each kid, it's important to focus on the small victories and celebrate their progress. With patience, understanding, and the right strategies, your kid can develop the skills they need to be as independent as possible. And let’s not forget, a win is a win, no matter how small… Give Grace One of the most important things you can do as a mom is to give grace. To your kids, to yourself, and to those around you. Your loved ones are trying their best to understand and support you, and sometimes, mistakes happen. It's okay to forgive and move forward. Have Gratitude Gratitude is a powerful tool that can help you appreciate the beauty and joy in your life. Be grateful for the small moments, the milestones, and the love that surrounds you.   So often, it’s the small things that matter the most. Find Your Heart-Centered Community You don't have to walk this journey alone. There are countless moms out there who understand the unique challenges and joys of raising a neurodivergent kid. Seek out a heart-centered community where you can connect with others who share your experiences. Inclusiveology has communities designed for moms, just like you.  For free support and resources, CLICK HERE .  For coaching and individual support options, CLICK HERE . For whatever you need, we’re here.  Remember, You Are Not Alone The path may be challenging, but you are not alone. With grace, gratitude, a little bit of grit, and the support of a loving community, you can stride along the path feeling good about what you’re doing for your kid! We’ve got you Mama…