What does progress actually look like when you’re raising neurodivergent children?
In Episode 41 of the NeuroDADverse Podcast, Ben and Dan unpack a week filled with emotional ups, small wins, and the ongoing challenge of navigating school, routines, and regulation.
From managing transitions at the gym and dealing with school-related anxiety, to celebrating meaningful breakthroughs like independent conversations, shared dinners, and creative confidence. This episode is a reminder that progress isn’t always linear… but it is happening.
We also talk about:
Why transitions (even small ones) can trigger big reactions
School anxiety, attendance challenges, and building resilience
Supporting independence while staying emotionally connected
The emotional rollercoaster of creative tasks and self-doubt
Why “small wins” often carry the biggest meaning
🎧 Whether you’re a parent, carer, educator, or just trying to understand — this conversation is for you.
Real conversations about raising neurodivergent children in a neurotypical world.
Hosted by two UK dads, NeuroDADverse explores autism, ADHD, SEND parenting, mental load, masking, school systems, identity, and the everyday wins and struggles of neurodivergent family life.
If you’re a parent of an autistic child, an ADHD dad, part of a SEND family, or simply looking for honest, relatable parenting conversations — you’re not alone here.
🔔 New episodes weekly
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00:00 – Intro: What Is NeuroDADverse?
00:44 – Welcome Back & Episode 41 Kick-Off
01:06 – Week in Three Words
02:49 – This Week’s Challenges Begin
03:10 – Haircut & Emotional Regulation
05:28 – Understanding Deregulation & Stimming
07:34 – Transitions & Leaving Activities (Gym Moment)
09:25 – Why Transitions Are So Difficult
11:29 – “This Is Normal Behaviour” Reframed
14:07 – School Anxiety & Attendance Challenges
16:14 – Avoiding Catastrophising as Parents
17:43 – When a Tough Week Turns Around
18:31 – Moving Into Wins
18:56 – Art Mock Exam: Anxiety to Pride
20:12 – Creative Confidence & Emotional Growth
21:55 – Social Pressure & Teenage Identity
22:58 – School Progress & Independence
24:08 – Gaming, Connection & Shared Time
25:25 – Unexpected Independence (Dinner Moment)
27:09 – Real Conversations & Emotional Connection
28:37 – Reflecting on Growth Over Time
31:25 – Haircut Progress & Sensory Wins
33:08 – “Chronicle the Wins” Mindset
36:13 – Looking Ahead to Next Week
37:16 – Upcoming Plans & Transitions
39:21 – Beach Story Callback (Humour Moment)
40:38 – Time Away & Parenting Logistics
41:41 – Managing Change & Travel Anxiety
43:18 – Final Reflections
44:56 – Closing Message: You Are Not Alone