Masking, Language, and Neurodivergence

No! Stop! You can't do that! Cut it out!

These are the phrases heard most often by neurodivergent children. It is so difficult for parents to manage social and societal expectations while also navigating the unique needs of their children.

How do you react to your child's meltdown in the middle of a crowded store?

How do you handle an eloping child in a place that may be dangerous, like a parking lot?

What is your reply when your child says something inappropriate in a quiet place?

Those moments begin to define how your child sees themselves and their behavior. In the toughest and most sensory-filled times, your reactions to your child shape how they think of their behaviors.

That's why many neurodivergent children "mask," or learn how to suppress the behaviors and actions they need to feel comfortable and safe. They begin to view their needs as bad and impermissible. 

So my question to you is, what do you do in the calm moments? How do you affirm your child's behaviors and give them acceptance when you have the space and ability to do so?

Do you practice affirmations with your children and focus on phrases that build them up, or do you latch on to the no, don't, stop type phrases? It may be extremely difficult at times, but the more positive language you expose your child to, the more resilience they will have to be patient and understanding during the difficult moments.

 We recommend that you have empowering phrases visible to your children every time you are at home. Products like these will help you build your kid up and work on their comfort and self-confidence daily.

Take every peaceful moment as an opportunity to love your child and build them up. You will develop a language and a system for your child to believe in as they navigate a different and difficult world, empowering them to succeed!