Hi Reader,

Here's why telling kids “Don’t make a fuss” is problematic…

Picture this:

A neurodivergent child is trying to get dressed. Their socks feel wrong (maybe they’re wrinkly, crooked, and a bit wet… nightmare). Their parent is frustrated and wants to just get out the door.

They say “Don’t make a fuss”

When somebody’s needs are dismissed along the lines of “don’t make a fuss”, which kids hear way too often, what we’re teaching them is:

• that they can’t address their sensory needs in the future
• that they’re not deserving of having their sensory needs met

And over time, they may ignore their own needs more and more, and live in greater and greater discomfort.

What to do instead

• Believe children - if something feels off, it’s their valid experience
• Take time to set up safe sensory experiences, it’s always worthwhile
• Model listening to your own body’s needs and honouring your own preferences

Learn more about the experiences of high-masking autistic people - mine and other people’s - in my recent podcast episode - “But you seem so sociable” - Experiences of High-Masking Autistic Folks

Wishing you a fabulous week!

​

Adina Levy

Neurodivergent Speech Therapist & Professional Educator

Play. Learn. Chat.

hi@playlearnchat.com • www.playlearnchat.com

​

PS: I shared with some of you that there's just about 1 week left to get discounted Team-wide access to my Neurodiversity Affirming training for Allied Health Teams at the current prices before the prices go up (for 5+ team members). THANK YOU to the fabulous Natasha for pointing out that I'd muddled my months up 🙈. I can confirm that discounted access at the current pricing is available until Thursday 28th MARCH!

Here's how long you have to get in before the price goes up:

​

To enquire, reply to this email with the number of clinical team members you have and the country you live in, so we can give you a quick quote!

🙋🏼‍♀️ Hi! I'm Adina, a neurodivergent Speech Therapist and professional educator from Sydney, Australia. I’m so happy you’re here!

I’m an AuDHDer, meaning I am an autistic ADHDer. My life’s stories and experiences intertwine with my clinical experiences, and the lived experiences and perspectives of other neurodivergent people. These perspectives inform everything that I teach and share.

I’m dedicated to helping families, therapists, educators, teachers and communities to understand neurodivergent children better, and develop a deeper acceptance of children’s unique interests, passions, individual strengths and support needs.

I am an educator, podcaster, speaker, and I send helpful emails around Neurodiversity Affirming practice and support, that I hope will help you support the neurodivergent children in your life with more clarity and confidence!

​

⚫️🟡🔴​ 🔵⚪️🟢​​ ​I acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands on which I ​live, work and play - the Gadigal and the Bidjigal people. I recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. I pay my respects to Elders past​ and present.​ I acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands where you are reading this from today.

​

GET LESS EMAILS FROM ME: If you want to stop receiving regular weekly emails but you'd like to still get any other emails you've signed up for (e.g. if you've purchased a webinar, course, you're on a waitlist, you're a Community Member) - reply saying "LESS EMAILS"