Anxiety

August 12, 2026
August 12, 2026
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Back-to-School: Make it Familiar to Reduce Stress

It’s August, and my friends with elementary-age kids are deep into planning after-school activities. These friends are part of a generation former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy was hoping to reach in his “Advisory on the Mental Health & Well Being of Parents.” In his 2024 report for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Murthy warned that parental stress is increasing, partly as a result of parents’ perceptions that in order for kids to succeed they need to have hobbies and participate in enrichment programs … all the time. And of course it’s mom and dad’s responsibility to get them there, cheer them on, and keep them going. If these conditions are increasing the stress of the general parental population, what is happening to parents of neurodiverse kids?
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August 7, 2026
August 7, 2026
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Back-to-School: Make it Familiar to Reduce Stress

When my boys were young, July and August were filled with summer camp and family vacation time. There were hikes and swimming and s’mores for everyone. And yet, in the back of my mind, I was always considering September’s return to school. While summer may still be in full swing, parents of neurodiverse kids may already be worrying about how they can help their children start the year on a positive note, especially if they have struggled in the past. One point for parents to remember: Every new school year begins as a clean slate. It’s all brand new for our kids, but that means it’s also unfamiliar. The more you can help your child reduce uncertainty, the less stressful that first day will be.
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April 15, 2026
April 15, 2026
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I’m Only as Happy as My Least Happy Child…

“I’m only as happy as my least happy child.” I have heard parents recite this phrase for decades. I know why they say it, I know the pain that elicits this reaction, and I still push back on it every time.
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February 10, 2026
February 10, 2026
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Screen Time: How Much is Too Much?

It’s cold in the Northeast right now. Really cold. And when it’s cold out, it’s harder and maybe less pleasant to be outdoors, away from our screens. So what happens to our kids – in particular our neurodiverse children – when they are glued to the couch and even more likely than usual to turn to their screens for entertainment, information, and company? Read on for help discerning between too much and just enough screen time, and how to use technology to support your child’s development, rather than impede it.
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January 13, 2026
January 13, 2026
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Sleep Wisdom for the Weary

When my boys were very young, we went through one particularly challenging period when they were all up at night… every night. There was bed-wetting, hall wandering, night terrors, and night feedings. And yes, when I showed up at the bus stop those next mornings, my neighbors could see it had been yet another weary night. Recent multiple peer-reviewed studies have found a very high rate of sleep disorders among autistic and ADHD children, significantly higher than the typical population. So what’s happening, and perhaps more importantly, what’s a parent to do?
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January 6, 2026
January 6, 2026
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From the Mouths of Babes

As we enter this new year, here are recommendations and suggestions for parenting our neurodiverse children – both young and old(ish) – that come directly from my four sons, each of whom fits under that great big umbrella of neurodiversity: • “Nurture Your Kids’ Interests” • “Practice What You Preach” • “Neurodivergent Kids Need to Stim” • “Little Things Matter”
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December 9, 2025
December 9, 2025
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Family Connections: When the Ties Don’t Bind

It’s December, which means every channel is airing ads depicting families reconnecting, friends embracing, and strangers sharing joyful interaction. But what happens if our own experiences don’t match the scenes being thrown at us? What if the noise of holiday celebration is distressing to our neurodivergent children? Or the idea of parties – even among our closest people – stir up anxiety rather than pleasure? If we approach the holiday season thoughtfully, with appreciation for our kids’ different needs, we can enjoy this time of year and help our family and friends do so, as well. Read on for tips to help prepare children of all ages, extended family, and yourselves for a season focused on patience, acceptance, and hopefully a little fun.
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November 18, 2025
November 18, 2025
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ADHD 2025 International Convention

This past week I had the pleasure of joining a multitude of ADHD coaches, therapists, educators, and doctors, as well as individuals who have ADHD and/or care for people with ADHD, at the 2025 ADHD International Convention in Kansas City, MO. I left the three-day event with respect for those among us who process the world differently and a renewed commitment to supporting parents who are raising neurodivergent children. As I listened to speakers, participated in workshops, and met creative, empathic practitioners and parents, I was both validated by experiences from my own family journey and introduced to new perspectives and avenues to support this community.
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