Invisible Disabilities in Sports: Starting the Conversation | Ep. 93
In this episode Samantha and Lauren tackles a topic many parents struggle with—how (and why) to talk to your child’s sports coach about their neurodivergent needs. Samantha shares her own story of navigating two very different coaching experiences for her son and offers insight into how communication can help avoid misunderstandings, emotional meltdowns, and unnecessary shame on the field. Whether your child has ADHD, autism, or PDA, Samantha and Lauren explain why advocating for your child isn’t being “needy”—it’s setting everyone up for success. You’ll get practical tips for initiating these conversations through both letters and in-person chats, as well as reassurance that you’re not alone in this. Samantha and Lauren break down common fears like singling out your child or being seen as “that parent,” and reframe the conversation around collaboration and clear expectations. Advice on what to do if a coach is unwilling to accommodate and how to know when it’s time to walk away is also given. This is your reminder that sports should be fun—and if they’re not, there are always other ways for your child to thrive.
Autistic and ADHD Kids Parenting Strategies: Every Brain is Different
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Show Notes
In this episode Samantha and Lauren tackles a topic many parents struggle with—how (and why) to talk to your child’s sports coach about their neurodivergent needs. Samantha shares her own story of navigating two very different coaching experiences for her son and offers insight into how communication can help avoid misunderstandings, emotional meltdowns, and unnecessary shame on the field. Whether your child has ADHD, autism, or PDA, Samantha and Lauren explain why advocating for your child isn’t being “needy”—it’s setting everyone up for success.
You’ll get practical tips for initiating these conversations through both letters and in-person chats, as well as reassurance that you’re not alone in this. Samantha and Lauren break down common fears like singling out your child or being seen as “that parent,” and reframe the conversation around collaboration and clear expectations. Advice on what to do if a coach is unwilling to accommodate and how to know when it’s time to walk away is also given. This is your reminder that sports should be fun—and if they’re not, there are always other ways for your child to thrive.
00:00 Introduction and Autism Acceptance Month
00:15 Talking to Coaches About Neurodivergent Kids
05:16 Personal Experiences with Coaches
07:16 Effective Communication Strategies with Coaches
16:08 Dealing with Uncooperative Coaches
19:40 Ensuring Your Child Enjoys the Sport
22:57 Recap and Closing Remarks
Parenting Power Hour: www.everybrainisdifferent.com
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Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/