NeuroDADverse

Danny Eycott - Ben Wisdom-Quieros

The NeuroDADverse is more than just a podcast, it’s a weekly therapy session between two long-time friends reconnecting through the shared highs and lows of neurodivergent parenthood. Danny is raising a six-year-old, while Ben is navigating life with two teenagers. Between them, their lived experiences span early years and adolescence, offering valuable perspective for any parent on the neurodivergent journey. Their conversations blend lived wisdom, raw honesty, and light-hearted reflection, often with Danny just entering stages that Ben has already faced. This dynamic brings warmth, curiosity, and relatable storytelling that resonates across all ages and stages of parenting. At its heart, The NeuroDADverse exists because parenting neurodivergent children can feel incredibly isolating. Many of society’s norms simply don’t apply and it’s rare to find someone who truly hears you. This podcast was born from the need to find and grow that tribe. A space where parents can feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Whether you’re in the thick of meltdowns, laughing uncontrollably with them or even just wondering about diagnoses you’re not alone. Here, we speak with love, lead though our understanding and share with honesty. This is a space for ideas, laughter, and connection. Please remember: You are doing better than you think. You are enough. You are not alone. Welcome to the NeuroDADverse.“ Real talk from two dads raising neurodivergent kids with love, laughter, and plenty of chaos. Connect with us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on Youtube @NeuroDadversepodcast Theme music by Hands Up! https://www.instagram.com/handsuppunk/?hl=en Show produced by Squid Shack Studios https://www.instagram.com/squidshackstudios/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. How Do You Help When They Can’t Explain What’s Wrong? | NeuroDADverse Ep. 43

    4 HR AGO

    How Do You Help When They Can’t Explain What’s Wrong? | NeuroDADverse Ep. 43

    What do you do when your child can’t always tell you what’s wrong? In Episode 43 of The NeuroDADverse Podcast, Ben and Dan reflect on the emotional challenges of supporting neurodivergent children when communication, stress, and uncertainty collide.   This week’s episode dives into the reality of parenting through frustration, school pressure, food rigidity, and emotional overload, while also celebrating the small moments that remind you your child is growing in ways you didn’t expect. We talk about: •Supporting children through frustration when they can’t explain what’s wrong •Frankie’s communication challenges and understanding unmet needs •Letting teens learn from stress (without stepping in too soon) •Mabel’s mock exam anxiety and revision overwhelm •Oscar’s incredible pattern recognition and gaming strengths •Food rigidity, safe foods, and small sensory wins •Why small signs of empathy and kindness mean everything 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 📢 Share, rate, or comment to help more families discover the show 📧 neurodadverse@gmail.com 🌐 All links & platforms: 👉 linktr.ee/NeuroDADverse 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Audible 📺 Watch full episodes & short clips on YouTube 📲 Follow on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn #NeurodivergentParenting #SENDLife #AutismParenting #ADHDDads #ParentingPodcast #NeuroDadverse #DifferentNotLess #NeurodiversityUK 00:00 – Intro: What Is NeuroDADverse? 00:43 – Welcome Back & Easter Week Check-In 01:30 – Week in Three Words 02:27 – Challenges Begin 03:20 – Frankie’s Frustration & Communication Struggles 04:06 – When They Can’t Explain What’s Wrong 05:29 – Social Stories & Visual Support 06:21 – Finding Ways to Be Understood 08:02 – Processing Frustration & Dysregulation 10:18 – Frankie’s Needs vs Communication Barriers 11:41 – Mabel’s Mock Exam Anxiety 12:29 – Stress, Revision & Overwhelm 13:29 – Letting Teens Learn Through Stress 14:36 – ADHD Medication & School Support 15:12 – When to Step In (and When Not To) 16:02 – Parenting Through Worry 17:07 – Break 17:20 – Wins Section Begins 17:43 – Leisure Centre / Half-Term Wins 19:00 – Friendship & Inclusive Play 20:10 – Other Families “Getting It” 22:22 – Communication Progress in Social Spaces 24:13 – Frankie’s Joyful Moments 26:13 – Oscar’s Gaming Strengths 27:09 – Incredible Pattern Recognition 28:04 – Oscar’s Kindness with Nana 29:16 – Looking to the Future 29:41 – Food Rigidity & Safe Foods 30:29 – The White Strawberry Experiment 🍓 31:54 – Small Food Wins Matter 32:25 – Decision Fatigue Around Eating 33:51 – Parenting & Sensory Needs 35:20 – Looking Ahead to Easter Week 36:29 – Family Plans & Flexibility 37:37 – Zombies, Football & Friendship 38:19 – Final Reflections 39:05 – Closing Message: You’re Not Alone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    40 min
  2. What Happens When You Forget the ADHD Medication…?  (A Real Parenting Reality) | NeuroDADverse Ep.42

    3 APR

    What Happens When You Forget the ADHD Medication…? (A Real Parenting Reality) | NeuroDADverse Ep.42

    What happens when routine breaks and what does it reveal? In Episode 42 of The NeuroDADverse Podcast, Ben and Dan unpack a week full of unexpected lessons, emotional challenges, and powerful insights into neurodivergent parenting.  From a forgotten ADHD medication moment that led to a completely different experience of the world, to navigating sensory challenges, school transitions, and the emotional weight of supporting your child in real time — this episode is honest, raw, and deeply relatable. We also explore: • What ADHD medication really supports (beyond “focus”) • How routines impact regulation and emotional well-being • Why “challenging moments” can still be meaningful experiences • Reframing parenting wins (even when things don’t go to plan) • The importance of experimentation in neurodivergent parenting This episode is about perspective and recognising that even when things feel difficult, progress is still happening. 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 raising a neurodivergent child, working in SEND, or trying to understand, this conversation is for you. We share real conversations about raising neurodivergent children in a neurotypical world. 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 📢 Share, rate, or comment to help more families discover the show 📧 neurodadverse@gmail.com 🌐 All links & platforms: 👉 linktr.ee/NeuroDADverse 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Audible 📺 Watch full episodes & short clips on YouTube 📲 Follow on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn #NeurodivergentParenting #SENDLife #AutismParenting #ADHDDads #ParentingPodcast #NeuroDadverse #DifferentNotLess #NeurodiversityUK 00:00 – Intro: What Is NeuroDADverse? 00:43 – Welcome Back & Episode 42 Kick-Off 01:10 – Week Context & School Holidays 03:01 – Week in Three Words (Experiment, Communicate, Collaborate) 03:31 – Biggest Challenges Begin 04:05 – Bath Time & Sensory Regulation Challenges 06:13 – Routine Adjustments & Sensory Strategies 07:05 – Stimming & Behaviour Observations 08:19 – Hotel Stay & School Trip Planning 09:32 – The Forgotten Bag (ADHD Medication Moment) 10:45 – Theatre Trip Without Medication 12:04 – Overstimulation & Behaviour Changes 13:21 – The Science vs Reality of ADHD Medication 14:33 – Reflecting on the Experience 16:00 – Emotional Challenge as a Parent 17:05 – Supporting vs Controlling 18:06 – Realisations About Medication Benefits 19:12 – Letting Go of Anxiety as a Parent 19:59 – Decision-Making & Independence 20:19 – Break 20:31 – Wins Section Begins 21:00 – Emotional Wins & Energy Shifts 23:15 – Parenting Reflection & Growth 25:01 – Reframing “Failed Days” as Learning 26:36 – Building Understanding Over Time 27:40 – Swimming Trip Progress 28:21 – When Plans Don’t Go to Plan 29:50 – Why Repetition Builds Confidence 31:10 – Public Perception vs Reality 32:16 – “It Can Turn Around Quickly” 33:20 – Sensory Environments & Cafés 33:59 – “Chronicling Joy” as a Strategy 34:34 – Independence & Communication Wins 35:14 – Gaming & Parent-Child Bonding 36:39 – Meeting Your Child Where They Are 37:54 – Structure & “When/Then” Parenting 39:18 – Teenage Independence & Communication 40:09 – Family Support & Sleepovers 41:18 – Looking Ahead (Easter Break) 42:48 – Navigating Busy Environments 44:16 – Preparing for Real-World Experiences 46:08 – School, Football & Routine 47:21 – Parenting & Cinema Rant 😅 48:33 – Final Reflections 49:15 – Closing Message: You’re Not Alone Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    50 min
  3. Are We Overthinking It… Or Is This Just Parenting Neurodivergent Kids? | NeuroDADverse Ep.41

    27 MAR

    Are We Overthinking It… Or Is This Just Parenting Neurodivergent Kids? | NeuroDADverse Ep.41

    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 reactionsSchool anxiety, attendance challenges, and building resilienceSupporting independence while staying emotionally connectedThe emotional rollercoaster of creative tasks and self-doubtWhy “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 📢 Share, rate, or comment to help more families discover the show 📧 neurodadverse@gmail.com 🌐 All links & platforms: 👉 linktr.ee/NeuroDADverse 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Audible 📺 Watch full episodes & short clips on YouTube 📲 Follow on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn #NeurodivergentParenting #SENDLife #AutismParenting #ADHDDads #ParentingPodcast #NeuroDadverse #DifferentNotLess #NeurodiversityUK ⏱ YouTube Chapters (45 mins structured)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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    45 min
  4. Progress, Pressure & Parenting: What This Week Really Looked Like | NeuroDADverse Ep. 40

    20 MAR

    Progress, Pressure & Parenting: What This Week Really Looked Like | NeuroDADverse Ep. 40

    What does a “good week” really look like in neurodivergent parenting? In Episode 40 of the NeuroDADverse Podcast, Ben and Dan reflect on a week filled with small wins, emotional challenges, and the reality that progress doesn’t always feel easy, even when things are going well.  From navigating disrupted routines and sensory overload during everyday moments like bath time, to celebrating meaningful milestones like improved communication, school engagement, and emotional regulation, this episode captures the real balance of parenting neurodivergent children. We also talk about: •Why small wins can still come with heavy emotional weight •The hidden exhaustion behind everyday parenting tasks •Supporting your partner during high-stress moments •ADHD progress and what “closure” really feels like •Why reflecting on the week helps you see the wins you might otherwise miss Timestamps 00:00 – Intro: What Is NeuroDADverse? 00:44 – Welcome Back: Setting the Tone 01:10 – How’s Your Week Been? 03:02 – Week in Three Words 03:33 – This Week’s Challenges Begin 07:24 – Adapting to Disrupted Routines 10:18 – The Hidden Weight on Parents 12:04 – Sensory Overload & Hair/Body Care Struggles 14:33 – “15 Minute Fix” That Took Hours 16:33 – Emotional Impact on Parents 17:36 – Knowing When to Step In (Parent Tag Team) 18:42 – The “Shoulder Tap” Strategy Explained 21:08 – Learning to Support Each Other 23:08 – Moving Into Wins 24:17 – Mother’s Day Moment (Small but Big Win) 25:29 – ADHD Progress & Medical Update 27:12 – Why Check-Ups Can Be Difficult 28:26 – Reflecting on Small Wins 30:10 – Family Moments & Fun Wins 34:50 – Progress Over Time (Big Perspective Shift) 36:30 – Looking Ahead to Next Week 37:01 – School Anxiety & Upcoming Challenges 40:04 – Life Outside Parenting (Balance & Identity) 41:27 – Episode Reflection & Community Growth 42:42 – Final Message: You’re Not Alone This isn’t about perfect parenting — it’s about real parenting. 🎧 If you’re raising a neurodivergent child, working in SEND, or just trying to understand, this conversation is for you. 🎙️ NeuroDADverse Podcast 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 📢 Share, rate, or comment to help more families discover the show 📧 neurodadverse@gmail.com 🌐 All links & platforms: 👉 linktr.ee/NeuroDADverse 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Audible 📺 Watch full episodes & short clips on YouTube 📲 Follow on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn #NeurodivergentParenting #SENDLife #AutismParenting #ADHDDads #ParentingPodcast #NeuroDadverse #DifferentNotLess #NeurodiversityUK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 min
  5. Autism, Teens & Total Exhaustion | NeuroDADverse Ep.39

    13 MAR

    Autism, Teens & Total Exhaustion | NeuroDADverse Ep.39

    🎙 The NeuroDADverse – Episode 39 Some weeks in parenting feel like clear victories. Others feel more like figuring things out in real time. This week on the NeuroDADverse, Ben and Dan reflect on a week defined by pride, gratitude, contentment and Minions, complaints, Nanny - while also navigating the ongoing complexities of raising neurodivergent children and teenagers. Dan shares updates on communication behaviours and sensory regulation, as they continue to understand how Frankie expresses needs in different moments. Meanwhile, Ben talks honestly about the realities of parenting teenagers, from school attendance challenges to the physical exhaustion that comes with puberty. In this episode, we discuss: • Understanding behaviours that might actually be communication • The ongoing puzzle of sensory needs and stimming • Teenagers, puberty, and sudden exhaustion after school • When attendance struggles don’t have a clear cause • Parenting arguments and teenage independence • Why some weeks are about progress, not perfection Not every parenting win looks dramatic. Sometimes the win is simply keeping perspective and staying present. And as always, we end with the reminder every parent needs to hear: You’re doing great. You are enough. And you are definitely not alone. 🎙️ NeuroDADverse Podcast 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 📢 Share, rate, or comment to help more families discover the show 📧 neurodadverse@gmail.com 🌐 All links & platforms: 👉 linktr.ee/NeuroDADverse 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Audible 📺 Watch full episodes & short clips on YouTube 📲 Follow on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn #NeurodivergentParenting #SENDLife #AutismParenting #ADHDDads #ParentingPodcast #NeuroDadverse #DifferentNotLess #NeurodiversityUK Chapter Breakdown ⏱ 00:00 – Welcome to The NeuroDADverse ⏱ 01:30 – Three Words of the Week ⏱ 03:00 – Ongoing Parenting Challenges ⏱ 05:30 – Understanding Communication Through Behaviour ⏱ 09:00 – Stimming & Emotional Signals ⏱ 13:30 – Parenting Neurodivergent Teens ⏱ 18:30 – School Attendance Challenges ⏱ 22:00 – Puberty & Exhaustion After School ⏱ 26:30 – Teen Arguments & Family Dynamics ⏱ 31:00 – When There Isn’t a Clear Cause ⏱ 36:00 – Parenting Perspective: Progress Over Perfection ⏱ 40:00 – Gratitude in the Chaos ⏱ 43:00 – Final Thoughts & Weekly Reflection Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min
  6. A Huge School Win, Confidence Boosts, & A Football Breakthrough | NeuroDADverse Ep. 38

    6 MAR

    A Huge School Win, Confidence Boosts, & A Football Breakthrough | NeuroDADverse Ep. 38

    🎙 The NeuroDADverse – Episode 38 This week on the podcast, we celebrate some unexpected parenting wins. Dan shares a huge moment in Frankie’s school journey, when getting to school finally seemed to feel easier after months of difficult transitions. For many SEND parents, the hardest part of the day isn’t the classroom… it’s simply getting through the gate. Meanwhile, Ben shares a brilliant moment of confidence for Mabel after being asked to play for her school football team, stepping up, defending ruthlessly, and even winning Player of the Match. In this episode, we talk about: • The anxiety parents feel during school transitions • When transport works… but the school gate doesn’t • The importance of supportive school staff • Building respect and family relationships with grandparents • Watching your child discover confidence through sport • Why small moments can feel like huge victories in neurodivergent parenting • Preparing for the week ahead — from World Book Day costumes to EHCP reviews From the outside, these might look like small everyday stories. But inside neurodivergent family life… they’re massive. hapter Breakdown (49 min) ⏱ 00:00 – Welcome to The NeuroDADverse Why we share the highs and lows of neurodivergent parenting ⏱ 02:00 – This Week’s Parenting Wins ⏱ 04:30 – Frankie’s School Transport Success When the transition to school finally starts working ⏱ 09:30 – The Anxiety of Morning Transitions The emotional load parents carry every school day ⏱ 15:30 – Supportive Schools Make All the Difference ⏱ 19:00 – Why Getting Through the Gate Matters ⏱ 24:00 – Ben’s Family Win: Respect Around the Table A small but meaningful moment with grandparents ⏱ 30:00 – Mabel’s Football Breakthrough ⚽ First match, strong defending, and Player of the Match ⏱ 35:30 – Confidence in Teenage Years ⏱ 38:40 – Looking Ahead to the Week World Book Day, school events and busy schedules ⏱ 44:30 – EHCP Reviews & Advocacy for Your Child ⏱ 48:00 – Final Thoughts: Parenting Wins Matter 🎙️ NeuroDADverse Podcast 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 📢 Share, rate, or comment to help more families discover the show 📧 neurodadverse@gmail.com 🌐 All links & platforms: 👉 linktr.ee/NeuroDADverse 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Audible 📺 Watch full episodes & short clips on YouTube 📲 Follow on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn #NeurodivergentParenting #SENDLife #AutismParenting #ADHDDads #ParentingPodcast #NeuroDadverse #DifferentNotLess #NeurodiversityUK Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    49 min
  7. Autism + Birthday Parties = 3 Transitions,1 Party Bus, No Meltdown | NeuroDADverse Ep. 37

    27 FEB

    Autism + Birthday Parties = 3 Transitions,1 Party Bus, No Meltdown | NeuroDADverse Ep. 37

    🎙️ The NeuroDADverse – Episode 37. What happens when you stack: • Lunch • Multiple transitions • A birthday party bus • A house full of unfamiliar kids • A non-speaking autistic child • And a busy week of solo parenting ahead Honestly? We expected it to unravel. In this episode, Dan shares a surprisingly brilliant autism parenting win, navigating three transitions in one afternoon and watching Frankie slowly integrate into a sensory-filled birthday party. But that’s only half the story. Ben shares what’s coming up in his world: • A performance debut • Logistical juggling • A week of near-solo parenting • And the mental load that comes when one parent is “on duty” We talk about: • Why transitions are often harder than the event itself • The invisible strategy behind “just popping to a party” • Social pressure from other parents • Leaving on a high (and why that matters) • How busy weeks affect regulation — for kids and adults • Why positive energy before a tricky week is sometimes the best strategy From the outside, this week might look simple. From the inside? It was layered, strategic, emotional, and quietly successful. If you’ve ever: • Avoided a party because the risk felt too high • Mentally rehearsed three transitions before leaving the house • Balanced work, identity and parenting • Or found yourself solo for the week, wondering how sleep will go… 🎙️ NeuroDADverse Podcast 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 📢 Share, rate, or comment to help more families discover the show 📧 neurodadverse@gmail.com 🌐 All links & platforms: 👉 linktr.ee/NeuroDADverse 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Audible 📺 Watch full episodes & short clips on YouTube 📲 Follow on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn #NeurodivergentParenting #SENDLife #AutismParenting #ADHDDads #ParentingPodcast #NeuroDadverse #DifferentNotLess #NeurodiversityUK Chapter Breakdown ⏱️ 00:00 – Welcome to The NeuroDADverse ⏱️ 02:00 – A Surprisingly Lovely Week ⏱️ 05:30 – The Ambitious Plan: Lunch + Party ⏱️ 09:30 – Transitioning Out of the House ⏱️ 14:30 – Familiar Spaces & Regulation ⏱️ 20:30 – The Party Bus Moment ⏱️ 25:00 – Social Pressure & Being the Only Non-Verbal Child ⏱️ 30:00 – Slow Integration Strategy ⏱️ 34:00 – Buffets, Boundaries & Pizza Diplomacy ⏱️ 37:00 – Singing Happy Birthday & Pattern Recognition ⏱️ 40:00 – Leaving on a High ⏱️ 42:30 – Ben’s Week Ahead: Performance Debut ⏱️ 44:30 – Solo Parenting Logistics & Sleep Realities ⏱️ 46:30 – Positive Energy Before a Busy Week ⏱️ 48:00 – Final Reminder: You’re Doing Great Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    48 min
  8. Rebuilding confidence, A new connection? & A games day | NeuroDADverse Ep. 36

    20 FEB

    Rebuilding confidence, A new connection? & A games day | NeuroDADverse Ep. 36

    In Episode 36 of The NeuroDADverse, Ben and Dan reflect on a week full of quiet but powerful wins, where confidence is rebuilding, teens are choosing connection, and safe spaces are doing their job. This week includes: Confidence growing in school and sportNervousness about tests turning into positive surprisesRepairing self-belief after academic doubtTeens asking to watch films and game togetherCouch co-op gaming as connection (Resident Evil, It Takes Two, Split Fiction)SEND gym inclusion and the power of adaptive spacesSafe environments where kids don’t have to explain themselvesFootball confidence and school enjoymentWhy mood matters more than metricsHalf-term flexibility and leaving space for spontaneityChoosing optimism without forcing it As always, we want to remind you: You’re doing great. You are enough. And you’re definitely not alone. 🎙️ NeuroDADverse Podcast 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 📢 Share, rate, or comment to help more families discover the show 📧 neurodadverse@gmail.com 🌐 All links & platforms: 👉 linktr.ee/NeuroDADverse 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • Audible 📺 Watch full episodes & short clips on YouTube 📲 Follow on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn #NeurodivergentParenting #SENDLife #AutismParenting #ADHDDads #ParentingPodcast #NeuroDadverse #DifferentNotLess #NeurodiversityUK Chapter Breakdown 00:00 – Intro & Welcome to Episode 36 00:43 – Wins of the Week Begin 01:47 – Rebuilding Confidence at School 03:12 – Science Test Surprise & Self-Belief Repair 05:10 – Football Confidence & Peer Recognition 07:48 – Not Writing Yourself Off Too Early 09:22 – Teens Choosing to Watch Films Together 11:08 – Couch Co-op Gaming as Connection 13:30 – Resident Evil, Strategy & Shared Joy 16:42 – Why Gaming Side by Side Matters 18:55 – “Busy, Busy, Busy” & Jumping at the Moments 20:18 – Shared Teen Experiences & Safe Spaces 22:32 – SEND Gym & Inclusive Environments 24:44 – Letting Kids Play Without Ownership Battles 27:12 – Confidence Growing in Class & Sport 29:40 – The Power of Enjoying School 31:04 – Looking Ahead to Half-Term 33:20 – Flexible Planning with Teens 35:10 – Pancake Day Traditions & Low-Pressure Fun 37:23 – Wildlife Park Plans & Nostalgia 39:50 – Why These Weeks Matter 42:17 – Letting Go of Rigid Planning 44:36 – Celebrating Without Forcing Big Narratives 46:12 – Final Reflections & Gratitude 47:32 – You’re Doing Great. You Are Enough. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    48 min
5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The NeuroDADverse is more than just a podcast, it’s a weekly therapy session between two long-time friends reconnecting through the shared highs and lows of neurodivergent parenthood. Danny is raising a six-year-old, while Ben is navigating life with two teenagers. Between them, their lived experiences span early years and adolescence, offering valuable perspective for any parent on the neurodivergent journey. Their conversations blend lived wisdom, raw honesty, and light-hearted reflection, often with Danny just entering stages that Ben has already faced. This dynamic brings warmth, curiosity, and relatable storytelling that resonates across all ages and stages of parenting. At its heart, The NeuroDADverse exists because parenting neurodivergent children can feel incredibly isolating. Many of society’s norms simply don’t apply and it’s rare to find someone who truly hears you. This podcast was born from the need to find and grow that tribe. A space where parents can feel seen, heard, and appreciated. Whether you’re in the thick of meltdowns, laughing uncontrollably with them or even just wondering about diagnoses you’re not alone. Here, we speak with love, lead though our understanding and share with honesty. This is a space for ideas, laughter, and connection. Please remember: You are doing better than you think. You are enough. You are not alone. Welcome to the NeuroDADverse.“ Real talk from two dads raising neurodivergent kids with love, laughter, and plenty of chaos. Connect with us on Instagram, TikTok and watch us on Youtube @NeuroDadversepodcast Theme music by Hands Up! https://www.instagram.com/handsuppunk/?hl=en Show produced by Squid Shack Studios https://www.instagram.com/squidshackstudios/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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