5 Tips to Improve Communication with Your Neurodivergent Child
Having a neurodivergent child comes with a unique set of challenges.
It’s important to remember that being neurodivergent doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with you.
It simply means you have a different way of processing and understanding things.
As a parent, it’s just as essential for you to know that as it is for your child.
Keeping that in mind as you communicate with your child will make it easier to stay patient and try to work with them as you seek to understand each other.
With that, let’s look at a few practical tips you can use to improve your communication efforts with your neurodivergent child, creating a stronger connection and deeper understanding.
1. Educate Yourself
Neurodiversity is just that — diverse.
There are a variety of conditions that fall under the umbrella of neurodivergence, including ADHD, autism, and more.
Take the time to learn more about what your child is dealing with, the common symptoms, and how it might be affecting them.
The more you know about your child’s condition, the easier it will be to understand the specific challenges they’re dealing with, so you can find a way of communicating that meets their needs.
Educating yourself on their specific condition will also make it easier for you to identify their strengths and where they might excel, so you can use that information as you communicate with them.
2. Slow Down
It’s not uncommon for neurodivergent children to need extra time to process things.
So, slow down when you speak.
That doesn’t mean you need to “talk down” to your child.
But, if you tend to be a speedy talker, be cognizant of the way you’re talking and try to be as clear and concise as possible.
Give short, manageable instructions and questions.
Use visuals whenever possible.
Do what you can to give them time to process things in ways that utilize their strengths.
3. Be an Active Listener
Communication is a two-way street for everyone.
Whether your child is verbal or nonverbal, it’s important to pay attention to their communication cues, including body language and expressions.
Additionally, you should be a good model for those cues.
Your child will learn how to express themselves, especially nonverbally, by watching and eventually imitating the things you do.
Simple gestures, for example, can support communication, and children who are nonverbal can use them to convey what they’re trying to say.
Make sure you’re validating all communication attempts by your child, even if you don’t quite understand them at first. This will encourage them to keep communicating.
4. Create a Safe Space
Trying to communicate effectively can be overwhelming for a neurodivergent child.
It’s important for them to feel safe and supported.
So, make sure you’re fostering an environment where your child feels secure enough to communicate.
Predictable, structured environments provide a sense of familiarity that can make it easier for your child to open up in their own way.
Use positive reinforcement as much as possible, stay patient, and make sure family members and friends who want to communicate with your child understand how to do so effectively.
5. Seek Help
Again, there’s no denying that you’ll experience unique challenges when trying to communicate with your neurodivergent child.
You don’t have to fully understand or tackle those challenges alone.
Therapy can help to develop and improve your child’s communication support plan — a plan for the whole family.
Experts who specialize in neurodivergence can make a big difference in helping you foster a healthy communication style with your child.
If you’re ready to start that journey together, I’m here to help.