When most people picture therapy for children, they often imagine weekly appointments, sitting face-to-face with a stranger, answering questions about feelings, or trying to “open up” and explain what’s wrong. But for many neurodivergent children and teens, that approach can feel overwhelming, exhausting or simply inaccessible.

Every year, Neurodiversity Celebration Week shines a light on the incredible strengths, perspectives, and talents of neurodivergent individuals. It’s a week dedicated to recognising that brains work differently, and that those differences are valuable. But for many parents raising neurodivergent children, the week can bring mixed emotions. Yes, there is pride in your child’s uniqueness. But there may also be exhaustion, frustration, and worry about the challenges your child

What many parents don’t realise is just how much their own emotional state influences their child’s ability to calm themselves. This is where co-regulation comes in.

The first day back at school… For many families, it’s a bittersweet moment. You wave your child off at the school gate, perhaps breathe a sigh of relief, and think, “Finally, we can get back to some kind of routine.” But by 3:30pm, reality hits. The door bursts open, shoes are kicked off, and within minutes the chaos begins. Tears, shouting, slammed doors. And you left wondering, “What happened to my lovely child?” If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.