Neurodivergent children can often find it more difficult to keep their feelings under control. Identifying, understanding and managing emotions can be more challenging and it's common for them to feel overwhelmed more easily and to become tired as a result.
This is normal and your child will need your help and reassurance that everything will be OK. You can help them understand their different emotions and how to manage them. You can help your child make sense of this by:
Big Emotions
Everyone has heard of the ‘terrible twos’ when most parents expect outbursts and tantrums. This often changes as children grow and are less frustrated because they have more language and physical skills. However, it takes children a long time to handle their emotions in a safe and healthy way.
Don’t forget to spend time talking to your child and praising them when you see them managing their feelings well! Think about:
Small children can have a lot of worries. Children this age;
Have very busy imaginations – so can have worries about ‘monsters’ or the darkJust like adults, some children find new experiences or situations easier to cope with than others. Your child may not be able to explain their feelings but you might notice it by how they behave;
Talk to your child about what you have noticed and help them think about what might be causing these feelings and behaviours. You might be able to guess if you know that they are facing changes, or have had some hard experiences.
When your child feels worried or scared about something it might not seem a big deal to you. Encourage them to tell you about it. By showing you take how they feel seriously they are more likely to carry on talking to you as they get older. You can think up ways to cope together.
You can help your child by explaining that being worried is normal and everyone feels that way sometimes;
Let us know what you think!
We've been working together in Norfolk and Waveney with families and professionals to put together information, advice and resources that are helpful to families. Let us know what you think, and anything we could change or add to make it even better.
If you live in Norfolk
You can contact the Healthy Child Service team by calling Just One Number on 0300 300 0123 or texting Parentline on 07520 631590. Our opening hours are 8am-6pm Monday-Friday (excluding bank holidays) and 9am-1pm on Saturdays.
If you are 11-19 you can text ChatHealth on 07480 635060 for confidential advice from one of our team.
If you live in Waveney
Norfolk SEND Local Offer provide information and advice on services for young people with additional needs in Norfolk.
Suffolk SEND Local Offer provide information and advice on services for young people with additional needs in Waveney.
Mencap is a national charity who support people with learning disabilities. They offer a free Learning Disability Helpline with advice and guidance. Call 0808 808 1111 to speak to a trained professional.
Kooth offers online counselling, advice and emotional well-being support for anyone aged 10-18, seven days a week until 10pm.
