Enhancing Parental Involvement in Education

“How do I plan for two lifetimes?” It’s a question I’ve heard often from parents of autistic children – and one I’ve asked myself.   Financial planning can feel overwhelming. Housing, benefits, daily supports, long-term care… it’s a lot. And if you haven’t started yet, you’re not alone. Many families feel behind.   I also know that for many families, even the idea of “planning” can feel out of reach when daily expenses are already a struggle. That’s real, and it’s why planning doesn’t have to mean setting aside large sums. Sometimes it’s simply about knowing what tools exist, having conversations early, and taking one small step at a time when you’re able.   Here are a few things I’ve learned from listening to experts, families, and caregivers:   1. Start when you can: a common mistake is waiting until “things settle down.” They rarely do. Even small, consistent contributions – $25 a month into an ABLE account, for example – can compound into meaningful security over time.   2. Choose the right tools: families often assume a savings account or traditional will is enough. Unfortunately, those can unintentionally jeopardize benefits like SSI or Medicaid. That’s why ABLE accounts (for day-to-day expenses and independence) and special needs trusts (to protect larger sums and inheritance) are so critical. Tip: many families can benefit from using both.   3. Think beyond money, because financial planning is also about peace of mind. For some families, that means asking: Who will know my child’s routines? Who understands their daily support needs? A “letter of intent” or care plan can guide future caregivers in ways no bank account ever can.   For others, especially when an autistic adult is more independent, it may be about ensuring they have the right supports to manage their own finances, live where they want, and pursue meaningful work. In both cases, starting these conversations early and documenting wishes clearly helps families feel more confident, even if they’re still figuring out the financial details.   At Autism Speaks, we’ve tried to make this easier with our Financial Planning Tool Kit, which includes expert guidance and stories from parents who’ve been there: https://lnkd.in/gw39iBru Every family’s situation is different, and every step counts — no matter how small. I know this is a huge topic. If you’re a parent, caregiver, or professional, what’s the one piece of advice you’d share with others who are starting this journey?

I started the morning off with a 6:30 am interview with NewsNation's Markie Martin about a workplace trend that's generating a lot of debate: Parents are becoming increasingly involved in their adult children's careers. They're calling hiring managers. Attending interviews. Negotiating benefits. Even calling in sick for their adult children. As a career coach, I have a slightly different perspective than many people discussing this trend. I don't think the story is about helicopter parents. I think it's about parents who love their children and are watching them enter one of the toughest job markets in recent memory. They're responding the way parents always have—by trying to help. The problem isn't wanting to help. The problem is crossing the line between preparing the child for the conversation vs. having the conversation. The parent's role should be the coach, not the player. Here's what I encourage parents to do instead: ✔️ Conduct mock interviews. ✔️ Review résumés and LinkedIn profiles. ✔️ Proofread important emails. ✔️ Open doors through your network. ✔️ Help them research companies. ✔️ Talk through difficult workplace situations. ✔️ Be their biggest encourager after rejection. But when it's time to talk to the employer... Let your child do the talking. Every interview. Every difficult conversation. Every negotiation. These aren't just moments in the hiring process—they're opportunities to build confidence, resilience, and independence . One of the greatest gifts we can give our children isn't removing every obstacle. It's helping them discover that they can overcome obstacles themselves. Parents, your role doesn't disappear when your child enters the workforce. It evolves. Move from being their manager to being their mentor. I'm curious: Where do you think the line is between supporting an adult child and stepping in for them? https://lnkd.in/epPm8bMt

Neurodiversity 101: getting the balance right- being a parent of Neurodivergent children... playing the long game.. Finding balance: being a working parent of neurodivergent children Last year in the City and Guild Neurodiversity Index we asked about parents particularly ( see the report and PLEASE complete the Survey - takes 10 minutes)- 24% of parents of ND children said they needed flexible working arrangements to be able to work. I know too well that balancing home and work is never easy — but when you’re parenting neurodivergent children (and possibly neurodivergent yourself), the word “balance” can feel misleading. It’s rarely an even scale. It’s more like surfing and trying to stay afloat adjusting constantly, falling sometimes, but learning how to get back up. ( Who said parenting was easy!) The demands of advocacy, appointments, and emotional labour often coexist with professional responsibilities, deadlines, and the ever-present guilt that something (or someone) is getting less of you. Yet, I think it’s possible to create a rhythm that works if we redefine what “getting it right” means. Here are five key strategies that help: 1. Redefine balance Balance isn’t symmetry — it’s fit for your purpose. Some weeks your children need more, other times your work does. Recognising that balance shifts prevents burnout and unrealistic self-judgment. 2. Prioritise energy, not time Time is fixed; energy is renewable. Schedule demanding work when your brain is sharpest, and build in decompression after emotionally heavy parenting moments. Think of energy as your most valuable currency. When do you work optimally? 3. Create systems that think for you and can save time and energy-prepare rather than repair. Use visual reminders, shared calendars, and checklists. Neurodivergent brains thrive on externalising memory and decision-making. Systems don’t remove spontaneity but they can reduce overload. When I was a medical student with my first child I realised even in a 15 minute slot you could get quite a lot done! 4. Ask for (and accept) support Whether it’s your workplace, family, or friends- do let people help. Inclusion applies at home too. You’re not failing by needing assistance; you’re modelling interdependence and showing your children that asking for help is strength. 5. Be kind to yourself Perfection isn’t the goal but presence is and this is not measured in time. Celebrate small wins: the meeting you made it to and the meltdown you handled with grace. Progress is often invisible, but it’s there. Celebrate the small wins.. they do add up! Being a working parent of neurodivergent children means living in a world that often doesn’t flex enough but you can a little. When we replace guilt with grace and rigidity with rhythm, we start to find something close to balance. 👉 How do you find your rhythm between work and home? Is there anything or anyone who has helped you?

The unexpected journey no parent is prepared for.. On the day Aadi was born, our lives changed in ways we could never have anticipated. Seventeen days later, we found ourselves in the NICU, watching our tiny fighter battle for his life. Born prematurely at 31 weeks with hypoxia. Those first weeks were a blur of medical terms, sleepless nights, and gut-wrenching fear. Our journey as special needs parents has been filled with unexpected twists, turns, and invaluable lessons. Here's what I wish someone had told me at the beginning: 1️⃣ It's normal to feel overwhelmed and grieve your expectations' loss. Allow yourself to experience these emotions as they are crucial to acceptance. 2️⃣ The more you learn about your child's condition, the better equipped you'll be to handle the challenges that come your way. 3️⃣ Connect with other special needs parents - their support is invaluable. 4️⃣ Celebrate small victories. Aadi's first smile meant more to us than words can express. 5️⃣ Take care of yourself. Your child needs you at your best, so don't neglect self-care. 6️⃣ Learn about healthcare and education systems as this will play a crucial role in securing the best possible support for your child 7️⃣ Love unconditionally. The bond you'll form with your child is unlike any other. The path of a special needs parent is challenging, but it's also filled with joy and love. Are you a parent struggling with a special needs diagnosis? Let's talk. P.s.: To all the parents out there facing similar challenges: you're not alone. #SpecialNeedsParenting #CerebralPalsy #ParentingJourney

One parent in a recent study described abandoning the expectation of dinners at the table and the freedom that came with realising they didn't have to force their family into a mould that caused everyone stress. That quote is from research published in Autism in Adulthood by Dr Melanie Heyworth (founder of Reframing Autism), who interviewed 40 autistic parents of autistic children. The methodology itself was affirming, offering non-face-to-face interview options because they understood their participants' actual needs. It's April, Autism Awareness Month.  And this research is what I mean by going deeper than awareness... It shows us what understanding actually looks like. The findings challenge every deficit-based assumption about autistic parenting: The biggest threat to autistic parents' confidence wasn't their neurotype. It was the stigma and judgment from family, schools, and professionals. Parents described being gaslit, blamed, and made to feel like failures, not because of their actual parenting, but because it didn't look conventional. Yes, there are real challenges. Sensory mismatches where what your child needs directly clashes with what you can cope with. Navigating alexithymia while being your child's emotional support person. Perfectionism and rumination creating cycles of self-doubt. But the strengths autistic parents described were specific and powerful: • Deep, intuitive understanding of their child's inner world through shared neurotype • Judgment-free curiosity, observing and trying to understand behaviour rather than reacting • Passionate interest in their children and autism that drives continuous learning • Honest, vulnerable communication including age-appropriate conversations about hard topics • Prioritising listening over directing • Respecting their child's autonomy • Willingness to ignore conventional approaches that don't fit their family The researchers made a critical point: many of these approaches actually align with what the broader parenting literature considers optimal, reflective, responsive, autonomy-supporting, and attuned. Autistic parents are often doing exactly what the evidence says works. They're just not getting recognised for it because it doesn't look conventional. For clinicians and professionals: This study should shift your practice. Are you supporting families in neurodiversity-affirming ways, or are you adding to the judgment that undermines the people you're meant to help? For autistic parents: The things that make your family look "different" might be exactly what your child needs to thrive. If a professional is trying to make you adhere to neuronorms like "everyone must sit at the table for dinner," question it. Trust your instincts on what works for your family. This month, let's challenge the neuronorms and be truly inclusive.  Study: https://lnkd.in/g9gtaHDZ

Parenting a child with neurodiversity, additional needs or a physical disability presents a unique set of challenges and rewards, especially when you're also trying to advance your career. The journey can be as demanding as it is fulfilling, requiring us to find that delicate balance between our professional responsibilities and our children's specific needs. My son is autistic and from my own experience, here are a few strategies that have helped me manage this dual role: ✨Open Communication: Keeping an open line of communication with your employer about your situation can lead to understanding and support. It’s crucial for negotiating flexibility or accommodations when needed. ✨Structured Scheduling: Balancing work and parenting a neurodiverse child often requires strict scheduling to ensure you can meet your professional obligations and attend to your child’s needs, such as therapies or appointments. ✨Support Networks: Leverage support networks, both professional and personal. Connecting with other parents of neurodiverse children can provide not only emotional support but also practical tips and resources. ✨Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is vital. It's easy to get overwhelmed, so make sure to carve out time for your own well-being. I’d love to hear from others who are on this journey. What strategies have worked for you? How do you balance your professional aspirations with the demands of parenting a neurodiverse child?

If you're a parent of a neurodivergent child, please remember: 👉 to be kind to yourself! You're doing the best you can with what you have available to you. 👉 to educate them about relationships, self-esteem and trust in particular, as they may be extra vulnerable to grooming and bullying 👉 to teach them about how impulsivity can be dangerous with ADHD and Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria, so recognising and regulating their emotions is key 👉 to be extra cautious of anyone who appears to be able to help (ask for DBS checks!) - you are unfortunately in a very vulnerable position due to the lack of support 👉 to remind your children that they have worth and purpose beyond exam results and fitting in - helping them to connect with other ND kids can be very helpful 👉 to help YOURSELF along with your child (especially if they're not keen on things like therapy or coaching) - you can set the example to them 👉 to communicate with your brilliant, wonderful children - keep the conversations open. It can be exhausting and thankless to advocate and fight the maze of NHS, SEND, schools, local authorities, and everybody else in trying to support your children. But please know how lucky your child is to have you care about them at all. 💜 I had an extremely difficult childhood, and a lot of this only made sense when I learned about the vulnerability that comes with ADHD. I spoke about this with Dr Olivia Kessel for her SEND Parenting podcast here: https://lnkd.in/ep4Y6fAf It's a real gift to be able to work with so many incredibly passionate, determined & inspirational parents of neurodivergent children through ADHD Works - I truly wish I'd had people like you in my life when I was growing up. Thank you for fighting, and for not giving up on your children. What would you add? #ADHD #neurodiversity #children Become an ADHD Coach in September here: https://lnkd.in/eVGyn8YY

When I was 16, my classmates were pressured to become doctors and engineers. But my father didn't care if I was 'successful.' Here's the advice he gave that went against everything society believed: As a young boy growing up in 1980s rural India, the importance of contributing and giving back to society was ingrained in me from a young age. India hadn't forgotten the struggles it had been through history. For the last 1,000 years, the country suffered under the hands of external invasions that extracted wealth out of the country and left its societies poor. When India took independence in 1947, our people felt a sense of duty to rebuild what was ours. Most parents took on the burden and pressured their children to pursue higher studies and high-paying professions. In my teenage years, I experienced this competition firsthand. I needed a high score on these competitive exams to get into a prestigious engineering or medical school that would set me up for the rest of my life. But, I refused to prepare for years and years just for 1 exam. It was probably a little disappointing for my father, but he never showed anger or displeasure. When other parents asked, he'd say: "Whatever they (his children) may become, they will become great citizens of the world. Then they may take up a profession, and they may influence society positively." He encouraged me to → explore different paths → choose organically what I'm good at → work on making it even better. I ended up evolving through changing themes of career ideas, eventually landing in technology and entrepreneurship over the next decade. The idea of exploration and passion deeply shapes our culture at Incepteo. Instead of locking young people into a specific role for life, we let them explore potential career opportunities at our company. • Salespeople join and become project managers • Developers join and become business analysts And, as a father, I try to empower my children in the same way. Some things (like basic maths) can't be avoided, but I try to give them a degree of freedom because it unveils their creativity and passion. People do better when they're not living in the shadow of someone else. Let them explore their own paths and enjoy the journey themselves. 

Women were turned away from conferences this week… for showing up with their babies. Yes, that's unfair, inequitable, and inaccessible. But it's also avoidable! Before we scream into the void (I already did, don’t worry), let’s take a look at some of the issues behind the scenes. Because, unfortunately, many Event Organizers don't consider kids until one shows up, and, of course, that's when everyone panics! More often than not, these things happen due to a total lack of preparedness AND the absence of an inclusion professional on the event organizers' board. So here’s how events teams can actually do better moving forward: 🟣 Be clear with your legal and insurance teams when you want to make your events kid-friendly 🟣 State age restrictions clearly on your event page 🟣 Mention kids/+1s explicitly on the ticket and follow-up emails 🟣 Include very specific needs and accommodation questions in your pre-event survey 🟣 Offer quiet/lactation/cold storage rooms 🟣 Ensure that your insurance coverage includes children and mobility aids 🟣 Provide stroller access, earplugs, and accessible venues 🟣 When possible, offer childcare or kid-friendly programming 🟣 And if kids are *not* allowed, say it! Multiple times! Everywhere! Event organizers: parents are showing up to your events (or they want to!). Make sure you can meet them with inclusion, accessibility, and clarity. Need help with any of that? Well, I'm glad you found me, then! I’m always a DM away.

As parents, we often find ourselves helping our children navigate through the maze of career choices and educational paths. Recently, I had a conversation with my daughter that led to an insight some of you might find useful in a similar situation. Instead of immediately diving into comparisons of schools and degrees, I suggested a reverse-engineering approach. Here's the essence of our discussion: 𝟭. 𝗜𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘆 𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗹𝘀: Encourage your child to find professionals currently excelling in their desired field. 𝟮. 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗢𝘂𝘁: Guide them in crafting respectful messages to these professionals. Suggest that they express genuine interest and ask for advice. 𝟯. 𝗔𝘀𝗸 𝗧𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗤𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:   - What skills, technology and tools are essential in their daily work?   - What education or training proved most and least valuable in their career?   - What advice would they give to someone aspiring to enter the field? 𝟰. 𝗙𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀 𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝘀: This approach helps identify the most relevant skills and knowledge, potentially saving time and resources on those degrees and programmes that sound impressive but add little career value. 𝟱. 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗮 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸: This process not only provides valuable insights but also helps your child start building professional connections early. By encouraging this proactive, research-based approach, we empower our children to make informed decisions about their future. It teaches them to seek practical advice, think critically about their choices, and take ownership of their career path. Have you tried similar strategies with your children? What has been your experience in guiding them towards their professional goals?