Quirky Infinity logo Empowering neurodivergent people through understanding and conversation

More Than Quirky

Empowering neurodivergent people through understanding and conversation

More Than Quirky logo with Infinity symbol blending with the Q

Quirky Infinity logo Empowering neurodivergent people through understanding and conversation

Family

Opening Christmas Gifts

When people speak of the true spirit of generosity, they talk about selflessness and the act of giving without expecting anything in return. That’s the moral high ground, right? It’s what we teach our kids. It’s what we praise and aspire to. So why is it that so many adults harshly judge children who open gifts at Christmas or on birthdays, and don’t respond in a particular way? Why are neurodivergent kids with traits such[…]

Christmas Lunch and The “Fussy Eater”

There are two important things to remember when it comes to Christmas lunch and neurodivergent kids. Firstly, it is a social construct, not a necessity. Secondly, you and your neurodivergent child do not owe conformity to anyone. Not even the people you love most. In fact, especially not the people you love most. If your child finds eating Christmas lunch at a family gathering difficult, that is okay. If this situation remains difficult, that is[…]

Extended Family Events: Thriving At Christmas

For even the most neuroaffirming family unit, Christmas celebrations with extended family can be incredibly difficult for families with neurodivergent members. Some find this is down to the lack of accommodations. For others it is due to blatant judgement. Some children are dysregulated by particular family members. Parents can be frustrated by their usually-regulated child having a “bad day” in the presence of so many family members. Obviously these potential “bad days” are absolutely understandable,[…]

Q&A: When Family Don’t Understand

Q. How do I deal with family members who don’t understand? Mum of boy aged 5-8 A. Extended family and friends can be a complicated aspect of raising a neurodivergent child. Their approach can appear dismissive, judgemental, critical, or even damaging. Four approaches for helping to bring them into the fold, for everyone’s benefit, include Acknowledge, Educate, Tolerate but/and Insist. Acknowledge (Cut Them Some Slack) When you live with a neurodivergent child, the learning curve[…]

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