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# Raising Orchid Kids

Resources and support for parents of neurodivergent children.

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Neurodiversity-Affirming Care Is Not “Anything Goes” Parenting](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/neurodiversity-affirming-care-is-not-anything-goes-parenting/) - One of the questions we hear a lot is some version of this: “Okay, but what does neurodiversity-affirming care actually mean?” Because let’s be honest. It can sound like jargon. And also, depending on who is saying it, it can start to sound like we’re supposed to throw out all expectations, let kids run the
- [The Right Environment Can Be Magic For Orchids](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/the-right-environment-can-be-magic-for-orchids/) - Today’s blog post is a companion to this post Jen wrote a few months ago when after a long, dormant period filled with uncertainty and lots of waiting, her Orchid plants sprouted. Today, those Orchid plants are in full, glorious bloom. This photo here is of her Orchids in full bloom in her kitchen. Like
- [It Might Not Be “Behavior”: Environmental Factors That Can Throw Neurospicy Kids Off Course](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/it-might-not-be-behavior-environmental-factors-that-can-throw-neurospicy-kids-off-course/) - There are times of year when parents start telling us, “Nothing huge has changed, but my kid is suddenly more emotional / more rigid / more explosive / more shut down.” Spring is one of them. And honestly? Sometimes a lot has changed. Just not in the way we usually think about change. When we
- [The 5 Words That Changed Everything in My House](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/the-5-words-that-changed-everything-in-my-house/) - When kids hit the tween years, they start reaching for independence with both hands. Which is exactly what they’re supposed to do. It’s part of the job description. This is true for Orchids and non-Orchids alike. Unfortunately, this is also the moment when many of us parents feel an almost magnetic pull toward control. Also
- [You Don’t Have to Jump Onto the Emotional Rollercoaster](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/you-dont-have-to-jump-onto-the-emotional-rollercoaster/) - Here’s a situation one of our Raising Orchid Kids members brought to a recent Q&A meeting: Their Orchid Kid had a full-blown meltdown because she wanted to set up her new tent in her bedroom. That night. It was already bedtime. The setup was complicated. Neither parent had the bandwidth for a multi-step tent project
- [Why Your Child’s “Regression” Isn’t Actually a Regression](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/why-your-childs-regression-isnt-actually-a-regression/) - If you’re raising an Orchid Kid, you’ve probably experienced this maddening scenario: Your child does the thing—they put their shoes on independently, brush their teeth without a fuss, or make it through an entire meal at a restaurant like a champ. And then, the very next day (or hour!), it’s like they’ve never done that
- [Sometimes Our Orchid Kids Know Best](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/sometimes-our-orchid-kids-know-best/) - We parents always know what’s best for our kids. Right? Right??? We’re programmed as grownups, and especially as parents of Orchid kids who may need extra support in a world not built for the way their brains move through it, to believe that it’s our job to lead and make the Right Choices. If our
- [What the Supermarket Can Tell Us About Our Brains](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/what-the-supermarket-can-tell-us-about-our-brains/) - I was in line at the supermarket, my many items inching their way up the conveyor belt to the cashier, when I noticed the woman behind me carefully stacking her groceries behind that little plastic divider that separates “mine” from “yours.” She was loading her groceries onto the conveyor belt in perfect order. One stack
- [Blooming on Their Own Time: Lessons From My Orchids and My Orchid Kid](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/blooming-on-their-own-time-lessons-from-my-orchids-and-my-orchid-kid/) - We have a collection of orchids in our home. Not a collection of Orchid Kids (I have only one of those). I mean actual orchid plants. People always seem to gift them to me, often with a wink and a nod to the phrase Raising Orchid Kids. And while I genuinely love orchids, both the
- [Unpacking the Blame Game: Why Kids Blame Others When They Make Mistakes](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/unpacking-the-blame-game-why-kids-blame-others-when-they-make-mistakes/) - Few things can rankle us like getting blamed for something that is clearly not our fault. And when it’s our kids who are struggling to “accept responsibility,” it can feel like a stain on our parenting. Kids of Good Parents always accept responsibility, right? …Right? Good news: that is simply false. We are here to
- [Why Be a Jerk? How to Support an Orchid Kid Without Power Struggles](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/why-be-a-jerk-how-to-support-an-orchid-kid-without-power-struggles/) - If you’re raising an Orchid Kid or teen, you’ve probably had this moment: your kid is melting down, shutting down, or refusing to do The Thing—and you feel your own temperature rising. You’re confused by what’s happening, or frustrated that it’s happening again. Then a second realization lands: a lot of your reaction is about
- [Resolutions, Schmesolutions: A Kinder New Year for Parents of Orchid Kids](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/resolutions-schmesolutions-a-kinder-new-year-for-parents-of-orchid-kidshow-environment-not-willpower-makes-for-happier-neurodivergent-kids/) - January has a particular energy. It’s like the world collectively bought a fresh notebook and now feels morally obligated to write in it with perfect handwriting. Eat cleaner. Be more patient. Less screen time. More family dinners. More “present.” More “calm.” More “consistent.” If you’re parenting an Orchid Kid, that whole vibe can land like
- [How one simple accommodation helped my child adapt to a new school](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/how-one-simple-accommodation-helped-my-child-adapt-to-a-new-school/) - Is your neurodivergent child struggling to adapt to new environments? Accommodation could be the key. Here's one school that set a successful example.
- [Five practical tips to soothe your child's meltdowns](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/five-practical-tips-to-soothe-your-childs-meltdowns/) - After-school meltdowns make you feel like your parenting all wrong? It's not you! Learn to reframe with these practical tips that will soothe your child.
- [How environment, not willpower, makes for happier neurodivergent kids](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/how-environment-not-willpower-makes-for-happier-neurodivergent-kids/) - Trying harder doesn't work. When raising neurodivergent kids, environment always beats willpower. Here's 8 concepts for parents struggling with the "shoulds."
- [Neurodivergent brains are beautiful--here's how to talk about them](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/neurodivergent-brains-are-beautiful-heres-how-to-talk-about-them/) - Shift your child's perspective on neurodivergent brains with these helpful talking points. Learn how to celebrate difference in the spirit of inclusion.
- [Overcoming parenting struggles about your kid--here's how to reframe](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/overcoming-parenting-struggles-about-your-kid-heres-how-to-reframe/) - Parenting struggles over a neurodivergent child's own struggles makes it harder for parents to support them. Reframe by accepting both struggles and strengths.
- [Parenting neurodivergent kids is hard--our practical tips can help](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/parenting-neurodivergent-kids-is-hard-our-practical-tips-can-help/) - Parenting neurodivergent kids is "hard when it's hard." If you can relate, here's six tips loaded with tools to help you manage what seems impossibly hard.
- [Self-regulation is possible. Here's how to achieve it.](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/self-regulation-is-possible-heres-how-to-achieve-it/) - Learn how coach Jen taught her son about self-regulation by first engaging in co-regulation. Reframining codependence is the first step.
- [Summer vacation fantasies don't work--here's how to fix that](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/summer-vacation-fantasies-dont-work-heres-how-to-fix-that/) - Summer vacation fantasies are full of "shoulds." Ditch them. Follow these parenting tips for neurodivergent kids and their families.
- [Parenting siblings with a gardener's skill will help them bloom](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/parenting-siblings-with-a-gardeners-skill-will-help-them-bloom/) - Parenting siblings with wildly different needs? Gardening can teach us how to parent Orchid and non-Orchid kids so that everyone gets a little sunshine.
- [Neurodiversity sounds good! Learn to listen with expert ears.](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/neurodiversity-sounds-good-learn-to-listen-with-expert-ears/) - Listen closely to the "music" of your Orchid Kids--neurodiversity adds richness to the parenting (and human) experience. Learn how to reframe your approach.
- [Six easy tips to regulate your nervous system](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/nurture-nervous-system/) - We’re writing you a permission slip! Consider this your official pass to take care of your own nervous system. How? Keep reading.
- [What neurodivergent kids can teach us about perspective](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/perspective/what-neurodivergent-kids-can-teach-us-about-perspective/) - Not your cup of tea? Neurodivergent kids can open our minds to different ways of experiencing life.
- [The best Zen parenting advice I got from a Buddhist priest](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/the-best-zen-parenting-advice-i-got-from-a-buddhist-priest/) - Feeling overwhelmed? Read coach Jen’s story about the one life-changing Zen parenting tip that helped her regulate her nervous system.
- [Five ways to be proactive when education policies are unstable](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/five-ways-to-be-proactive-when-education-policies-are-unstable/) - Learn five ways parents of neurodivergent or disabled kids can proactively deal with unstable education policies in the current administration.
- [How to practice listening to kids in four actionable steps](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/listening-to-kids/) - When parents don't practice listening to kids, consequences follow for neurodivergent children. It doesn't have to be so hard. Learn from our parenting coach.
- [Patient parent challenges? Five ways you can overcome that impatience](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/patient-parent/) - Worried your child isn't blooming fast enough? Learn about being a patient parent when neurodivergent children take their time.
- [Learn how to set healthy boundaries for parenting success](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/learn-how-to-set-healthy-boundaries-for-parenting-success/) - Learn how to successfully set, maintain and adapt healthy boundaries while parenting neurodivergent children. A guide featuring six thorough tools.
- [Self-care tips you need today](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/self-care-tips-you-need-today/) - Taking care of yourself is the best thing you can do for your neurodivergent child. We offer some tips for optimizing self-care in your parenting routine.
- [How to win at stimming and support your neurodivergent kid](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/how-to-win-at-stimming-and-support-your-neurodivergent-kid/) - Understand more about stimming (self-stimulatory behavior) and how it benefits your neurodivergent child. Get tips on how to create supportive environments.
- [Learn the best parenting skills in 2025](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/learn-the-best-parenting-skills-in-2025/) - Our parenting courses and workshop offerings in 2025 are designed to help you gain the tools and skills you need to parent small and teenage children.
- [Six tips to manage ableism in awkward situations](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/six-tips-to-manage-ableism-in-awkward-situations/) - Learn about ableism and how to manage it with six tips for parents of neurodivergent children. Key tips for holidays and events.
- [How to support regulation during times of transition](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/how-to-support-regulation-during-times-of-transition/) - Learn why regulation works best when it's co-regulation between parent and child. Here are some resources to help your neurodivergent child.
- [Guidelines for social narratives for improved socialization](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/guidelines-for-social-narratives-for-improved-socialization/) - Learn about building effective social narratives to help your neurodivergent child manage awkward and challenging situations.
- [Five ways to help your child deal with anxiety](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/anxiety-management-in-children/) - Helpful advice on managing anxiety in neurodivergent children as it creeps in during the school year. Read about triggers and soothing techniques for kids.
- [Try our "just right challenge" way of nurturing independence in kids](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/just-right-challenge-nurturing-independence-in-kids/) - Our coach shares how she let her neurodivergent child take a solo adventure with just the right amount of challenge to help him navigate the world.
- [Eight ways to manage school exhaustion in neurodivergent kids](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/school-exhaustion-neurodivergent-kids/) - Neurodivergent children often feel exhausted by Friday. You can help them rest and recharge by managing exhaustion in supportive ways.
- [Five tips to survive the holidays](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/holidays-survival-guide-for-parents/) - Are the holidays throwing your kids (and you) off balance? Read our pro tips to set your family up for success during this special time of the year.
- [Jumpstart your parenting mindest with four great tips](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/parenting-tips-positive-mindset/) - Parenting neurodivergent kids isn't easy. These four tips teach you how to focus on the positive and improve your parenting.
- [The Path is Nonlinear, and That's Okay!](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/the-path-is-nonlinear-and-thats-okay/) - Now that Summer is winding down, we’ve been thinking about the nonlinear nature of child development. Odd? Maybe, but here’s why: Summer is a time of in-between. In-between the end of one school year and the beginning of the next. In-between regular routines (which can be rough for Orchids). In between one stage and the Orchid Kids' development is usually nonlinear, and they will develop at a different pace than their neurotypical peers. And that's okay!
- [What if your child's behavior wasn't aggravating?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/uncategorized/what-if-your-childs-behavior-wasnt-aggravating-2/) - Irritating. Infuriating. Unacceptable. Rude. Spoiled. A toddler who runs in the opposite direction whenever the parent says it’s time to leave. A 5 year old who negotiates for more screen time whenever the parent says that time is ending. The 8 year old who begs to be able to stay up later than their bedtime. We can actually choose to shift how we see and perceive our kids' "aggravating" behaviors, which can change everything for us and for our Orchid Kids.
- [It’s not fair…](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/its-not-fair/) - We’re going to do an experiment today. Read the following statements and then ask yourself, “how am I feeling now?” It’s not fair that my child is autistic It’s not fair that other people’s kids behave themselves and mine don’t It’s not fair that my life is hard It’s not fair that we have so Understanding that our thoughts about our kids are optional can change everything
- [Why can't my child calm down?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/why-cant-my-child-calm-down/) - Recently we talked about what co-regulation is and why it matters. If you missed that one, you can find it HERE. This week, let’s dive into why kids need co-regulation at all. Self-regulation (the ability to soothe oneself) is a skill that develops S.L.O.W.L.Y. in young children. It begins in babyhood (think of the child who wakes Tips for understanding why your neurodivergent child is melting down and strategies for identifying how to help them calm down
- [There is no "wrong" way](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/there-is-no-wrong-way/) - Here’s what I said to a member of our Raising Orchid Kids Facebook community regarding sleep habits (Her school aged child still comes into bed in the middle of most nights): You don't need to do anything! You have the option - if things are not working as they are - to change things. But, For parents who are actively thinking about their parenting style, there are almost no “wrong” ways to parent. It all depends on how we FEEL about our choices.
- [Finding the Win in Aggravation](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/finding-the-win-in-aggravation/) - In this week's post, Jen shares her experience finding the joy in Aggravation with her Orchid son, Max. My son, Max, loves Aggravation. Now, I’m not just talking about how he can aggravate his family, teachers and classmates. Which he can. And does. Pretty often. The Aggravation I’m talking about here is an old school Orchid Kids grow and develop at their own pace and if we are patient and pay attention, we can find big wins in small moments.
- [What is Co-regulation?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/what-is-co-regulation/) - There’s a subject that comes up a lot in child development and parenting circles, called co-regulation. It’s essential for young children, but what is it exactly? And why is it so important? Co-regulation means that I, the adult, leverage my (mature) nervous system in service of your, the child’s, developing (immature) nervous system to get
- [What happens during a “microdose” session](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/raisingorchidkids/what-happens-during-a-microdose-session/) - You’ve been hearing me goof out about microdosed speech therapy sessions on social media (if you haven’t seen them, you can see them HERE, and make sure to follow me on IG), but I wanted to spend a little more time on the particulars of a microdosed therapy session and WHY it’s so effective. Here’s
- [Thought Error #2 that stops us from having a relationship with our Orchid](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/thought-error-2-that-stops-us-from-having-a-relationship-with-our-orchid/) - Humans have a natural tendency to catastrophize. It’s an ancient survival strategy. If we can imagine where the predator might be lurking, we at least have a chance of outrunning or being prepared to meet it. For all parents, that survival strategy gets activated big time as soon as Baby comes home. Danger lurks EVERYWHERE!
- [Orchid Raiser Thought Error #1 (“I know you are but what am I?”)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/orchid-raiser-thought-error-1-i-know-you-are-but-what-am-i/) - Recently, I suggested that one of the things blocking us from having a better relationship with our Orchids is the false notion that we can control another person’s behavior. The narrative in our heads goes something like this: If I could just get my kid to stop … then they would be so much happier
- [They don’t owe you anything](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/they-dont-owe-you-anything/) - Here’s a line I hear a lot from parents of Orchid Kids: “I paid a lot of money for ________ (music lessons, sports classes), so they have to finish the season.” Has this been you? (Full disclosure: it’s been me. It was me last week, in fact.) But, WHY? Why do we feel like, just
- [So, are we supposed to praise our kids or not?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/so-are-we-supposed-to-praise-our-kids-or-not/) - “Why are you telling us to praise our kids when all the literature seems to say that praise is bad for kids?” was a question that came up In our Raising Orchid Kids class not long ago. At first glance, there does seem to be a paradox here. In order to build resilience, the parenting
- [It's not safe](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/its-not-safe/) - As people who have been adulting for a while, a Whole Summer Off can seem like the most desirable thing in the world. We long for the days when we were kids and had nothing to do. We reminisce about long stretches of time where we played or read or watched TV. We didn’t have
- [Seeing the whole elephant](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/seeing-the-whole-elephant/) - There’s a great story about the Blind Men and the Elephant. A group of blind men approach an elephant, which they have never seen, from different perspectives. One man touches the trunk and gets one experience; another the tusk and gets a completely different experience. Still another touches the tail and comes to yet another
- [What if it wasn't annoying](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/what-if-it-wasnt-annoying/) - Your toddler runs in the opposite direction from you whenever you say it’s time to leave. Your 5 year old negotiates for more screen time whenever you say that time is ending. Your 8 year old begs to be able to stay up later than their bedtime. Every. Single. Night. Your 12 year old talks
- [It’s all about the connection](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/raisingorchidkids/its-all-about-the-connection/) - A family I met recently was in the process of gathering information from a few different speech therapists about what might be going on with their toddler, who is a Late Talker and isn’t speaking yet, and how to treat it. After they described to me what the other practitioners had said, and after I
- [It’s all related](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/its-all-related/) - Families are often surprised at some of the questions we ask during our initial intake process. This is because we tend to start with questions about sleep, eating, nursing, and temperament, before we ever start to ask about speech and language development. Here’s why we do it, though. Many of the families who come to
- [The Myth of Gentle Parenting](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/the-myth-of-gentle-parenting/) - Two summers ago, I drove cross country with my husband. During the drive from California to DC, we hit some pretty varied conditions. On one gorgeous sunny day, we drove 14 hours, the straight, flat stretches allowing us to fly down the highway. On a previous day, however, we ran into a massive thunderstorm while
- [What to do when your kid just won’t listen.](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/what-to-do-when-your-kid-just-wont-listen/) - Our Orchid Kids test our limits and our patience. A lot at times. Orchids with sensory processing issues need their environment to be just so. Certain clothing; certain foods; certain lighting; certain toys; certain music at a certain volume. Orchids with attention challenges often have a hard time following through. On homework. On chores. On
- [“I’m having a relationship with his behaviors”](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/im-having-a-relationship-with-his-behaviors/) - Behavior is communication.
- [Your toddler might need a developmental consult](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/your-toddler-might-need-a-developmental-consult-2/) - Your child's developmental milestone development speech and language
- [No, YOU listen!](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/no-you-listen/) - One of the things we worry about most as parents is that our kids are “not listening” to adults. They won’t listen when we ask them to put on their shoes. They won’t listen when we say it’s time for a family walk. They won’t listen when it’s time to clean up. They won’t listen
- [Throw away The Rules!!!](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/uncategorized/throw-away-the-rules-2/) - Let go of the expectations with parenthood. You can influence them, but not control them.
- [We have influence but not control - oy!](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/we-have-influence-but-not-control-oy/) - It turns out that - as a group - we parents have an outsized view of our parenting skills on our kids. We think that if we provide a stable home, an enriched environment, healthy food, toys, activities, therapies for our Orchid Kids, and lots of kisses that our children will grow up to be
- [Are you missing out?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/are-you-missing-out-2/) - The strong, beautiful, talented, hardworking mom sat before me and said, “I’m missing out”. She was referring to what she’s missing because her child is neurodivergent. Here’s a partial list: Birthday parties where no one cries Outings to the zoo that aren’t directed minute-by-minute by her child Easy spontaneous outings with the whole family for
- [You didn’t cause your child’s speech and language problems](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/you-didnt-cause-your-childs-speech-and-language-problems/) - Ok, y’all, it’s time for a reminder. I’ll cut right to the chase here: You, parent, DID NOT CAUSE your child’s speech and language delay. I say these exact words at most - if not all - of my informal consultations because I can see that parents are feeling like they’ve done something wrong. If
- [All behavior is communication](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/uncategorized/all-behavior-is-communication/) - What are my kids trying to tell me through their behavior?
- [Why it’s actually not your job to calm them down](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/why-its-actually-not-your-job-to-calm-them-down/) - Creating calm in your life will create calm for your child.
- [“She needs so much hand-holding right now”](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/she-needs-so-much-hand-holding-right-now/) - Trust that you are doing the right thing for your child.
- [Your kiddo doesn't need “toughening up”.](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/your-kiddo-doesnt-need-toughening-up/) - Orchid Kids need a set of Just Right conditions in order to thrive. They need small, sequential Just Right Challenges in order to get strong, resilient and confident. The way we “toughen up” Orchid Kids is by giving them many-more-but-much-smaller challenges.
- [Your kid is not the problem](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/your-kid-is-not-the-problem/) - We can go inward when we see our orchid's start to meltdown.
- [Tacking Holiday Meltdowns](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/tacking-holiday-meltdowns/) - We’ve included some tips for handling holiday meltdowns. They’re simple (but maybe not easy). And, there’s a handy-dandy acronym to help you remember them: Every Person Views Other Apples. Check out the graphics below to read more. xo G and the SpeechKids team
- [How to experience more Holiday Joy](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/how-to-experience-more-holiday-joy/) - One thing that we know about childhood is that children have a remarkable ability to be completely IN the present moment. This is why they would rather keep playing and not put their shoes on to go somewhere (even a place they LOVE). (Add 10 minutes.) This is why, once shoes are on, they become
- [From the “it’s not fun if it’s not fun” files](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/from-the-its-not-fun-if-its-not-fun-files/) - People can have strong feelings about the Santa Story, so I’ll lay out my own thoughts here to set the stage for the cautionary tale that follows. For me, Santa means magic. The details are unimportant, as are the mechanics. For the Littles, it’s the person who comes down the chimney and magically delivers their
- [What’s the Big Deal with Pouches Anyway?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/whats-the-big-deal-with-pouches-anyway/) - So convenient, no mess, ready at a moment’s notice for hangry toddlers, pouches seem to be parents’ answer to all the snack time woes. But… A dark underside lurks beneath the extreme convenience of the pouch. (Cue spooky music) To understand what it is, let’s go all the way back to the very beginning of
- [This Thanksgiving, stop caring](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/this-thanksgiving-stop-caring/) - Judgy stares, the Side Eye from Great Aunt Sue, tips on how to parent your difficult-to-parent-child, mentions that “Joe didn’t talk till he was 4”. All of these are super unhelpful scenarios. And: They don’t matter. At least – they don’t have to. Check out this month’s newsletter for some tips on how to get
- [Does your child have “weird” special interests?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/does-your-child-have-weird-special-interests/) - Last week, we talked about intrinsic motivation as the most powerful human motivator. And we talked a bit about how to foster that in our Orchid Kids by creating opportunities for belonging, opportunities to feel useful and needed, and chances to practice. This week, let’s talk about those Special Interests. Because Special Interests are -
- [I can’t be late on Tuesdays!](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/i-cant-be-late-on-tuesdays/) - Intrinsic motivation can allow for more motivation in daily activities for orchid children and school age children.
- [Why Orchid Kids love screens so much](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/why-orchid-kids-love-screens-so-much/) - Last week, we talked about recent news that putting 1-year-olds in front of screens can lead to developmental delays. You can read that one HERE. This week, let’s talk about kids who probably already have some developmental delays happening: Orchid Kids. (If you’re not sure what Orchid Kids are, we have a handy-dandy checklist for
- [“I’m just in the yellow zone right now”](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/im-just-in-the-yellow-zone-right-now/) - On a recent Raising Orchid Kids membership call, one of the parents shared a win that had Jen and me cheering. It was the end of a long day (never a good time). Parent had had a frustrating day at work and was now trying to get dinner on the table. Kiddo was hungry and
- [Why routines?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/why-routines/) - As Fall continues, mornings might feel a bit hectic at your house. If so, it’s a great time to revisit your morning routine! We’ve given you some tips here for routines that really stick, so that people can get out the door on time without meltdowns (from kids or adults!). If you’d like some help
- [Who’s on your care squad?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/whos-on-your-care-squad/) - Chug coffee shower (highly optional) wake up kids, feed them, get them out the door, walk dog (what?!) get spouse out the door get self out the door work till someone needs you again pick up all the people, also the groceries, (crap! What’s for dinner?) drive around town to all the therapies head back
- [But what if they’re melting down at Target??](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/but-what-if-theyre-melting-down-at-target/) - Joan stood in the line at Target mindfully rubbing her palms together and taking deep breaths while her daughter thrashed on the floor for several minutes. She knew that people were judging her, watching her, criticizing her. And yet, she remained calm and present until her daughter was ready to go, at which point they
- [We have to talk about the S word](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/we-have-to-talk-about-the-s-word/) - The newspapers are full of the most recent studies on screen time and young children. Unsurprisingly, one year olds who spend two or more hours per day in front of screens have a greater chance of experiencing developmental delays. Why? Well, here’s a partial list of what kids are NOT doing when they’re watching a
- [Think you and your kids are having “Bad Days”?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/think-you-and-your-kids-are-having-bad-days/) - “I had a bad day” “She’s having a rough day” “He had a terrible day” These are sentences that we’ve all said (including me), multiple times in our lives. But are they true? Like really true? Is it possible to have a day in which literally everything was Bad? Really? Everything? Is there a day
- [Happy New Year from Raising Orchid Kids!](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/happy-new-year-from-raising-orchid-kids/) - HELLO, and welcome back! Jen and I had some major pauses this summer. I took time off to take care of a sick relative (who’s doing well now- yay!). I spent some down time at home with my family, and I got to spend a week in the mountains of Colorado. After a misfire due
- [Need some sensory fun ideas?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/need-some-sensory-fun-ideas/) - Check out this month’s SpeechKids newsletter for some practical and fun sensory play ideas for kids. Rebecca’s sketched out a bunch of activities that don’t take a lot of time to prep and that your kiddos will love. You might think that these are mainly geared at Littles, but trust me when I say that
- [What if your child’s behavior wasn’t aggravating?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/what-if-your-childs-behavior-wasnt-aggravating/) - Your toddler runs in the opposite direction from you whenever you say it’s time to leave. Your 5 year old negotiates for more screen time whenever you say that time is ending. Your 8 year old begs to be able to stay up later than their bedtime. Every. Single. Night. Your 12 year old talks
- [What will people think?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/what-will-people-think/) - “We can’t tell Grandma and Grandpa that they won’t get hugs when we come over!” “I can’t let him have a full blown meltdown at the neighborhood pool!” “I can’t schedule play dates because something might go south.” “I can’t tell people that we don’t go to birthday parties right now because it’s too much
- [Traveling this summer?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/traveling-this-summer/) - Rebecca’s done it again! We hope you enjoy this guide for traveling with Littles this summer. We’d love to hear your travel tips too! Just reply to this email. xo G PS - Be sure to check out my interview with Dina Farmer from this past spring on travel destinations with autistic kiddos. It was
- [Fireworks ARE Optional](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/fireworks-are-optional/) - Imagine someone takes you to a hot open field with lots of unfamiliar people milling about where you then wait for several hours until darkness falls, at which point bright lights and loud sounds begin without warning and without regularity. And while you’re wondering what the hell is going on, everyone around you is cheering
- [Does your child have good ‘developmental hygiene’?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/does-your-child-have-good-developmental-hygiene/) - Adequate, high-quality sleep Daily time spent outside A variety of nutrient-dense food to eat Opportunities to experience unconditional love Opportunities to experience success and achievement Predictability (of personnel, of schedule, of routine) We know that these are some of the elements that Humans need in order to thrive. In child development, these are some of
- [Do you know what’s typical behavior for your child's age?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/do-you-know-whats-typical-behavior-for-your-childs-age/) - It turns out that we know quite a bit about how Dandelion Kids develop. We call them Developmental Milestones, and the Centers for Disease Control has a decent milestones chart of them for Littles. For older kids and teens, I prefer Understood.org’s information. Milestones are useful. Sort of. Sometimes. It’s worth looking at milestone charts
- [Summer Boredom](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/summer-boredom/) - Modern humans of all ages have a strange relationship with boredom. I say strange because we seem to both crave and dread it. We crave time to be creative and let our minds wander. And we know intuitively that doing so is a healthy and good thing. But we are increasingly out of practice with
- [Your Toddler Might Need a Developmental Consult](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/your-toddler-might-need-a-developmental-consult/) - One of the questions I get a lot is how to handle things when the routine doesn’t seem to be working. If the routine isn't working, it might be because one or more elements of the routine are not in the right place. For example, if your kindergartner refuses to go back upstairs to brush
- [Are You Missing Out?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/are-you-missing-out/) - The strong, beautiful, talented, hardworking mom sat before me and said, “I’m missing out”. She was referring to what she’s missing because her child is neurodivergent. Here’s a partial list: Birthday parties where no one cries Outings to the zoo that aren’t directed minute-by-minute by her child Easy spontaneous outings with the whole family for
- [Do you ask too many questions?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/communication/do-you-ask-too-many-questions/) - So often, we adults think that we have to ask probing questions in order to get any information out of our kids. We pepper them with questions – with the best of intentions – hoping to get a crumb, a snippet, a clue into what they’re thinking and experiencing. Turns out: the best way to
- [“In our family, we do it this way.”](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting/in-our-family-we-do-it-this-way/) - When I coach families, the topic of how other families do things comes up a lot. Kiddo goes to school and tells mom and dad that Classmate has a new toy and why can’t I have that? Kiddo hears that at a friend’s house they celebrate Half-Birthdays and why don’t we do that? A certain
- [How to handle the bedtime switcharoos](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/bedtime/how-to-handle-the-bedtime-switcharoos/) - It’s happened to most of us at one time or another. Child WAS sleeping through the night in their own bed and then they just start showing up unannounced in the middle of the night. Usually there’s a trigger: a trip, an illness, a big transition (like a baby sibling) or another big change of some
- [Throw Away the Rules](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/throw-away-the-rules/) - Modeling is the best way (maybe even the only way) to raise kids you’ll actually like.
- [We Have Influence but Not Control](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/we-have-influence-but-not-control/) - It turns out that - as a group - we parents have an outsized view of our parenting skills on our kids.
- [The Power of Taking Care of What’s Right in Front of You](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/tips/the-power-of-taking-care-of-whats-right-in-front-of-you/) - As parents, and especially as parents of Orchid kids, we spend a solid chunk of our days (and nights!) taking care of said kids, who are often tugging at our sleeves, climbing on top of us, and constantly needing our support. It can be utterly exhausting and exasperating, and can leave us feeling depleted. What

## Pages

- [Raising Orchid Kids](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/) - A resource for parents of neurodivergent (Orchid) kids and teens featuring dynamic courses, support groups and workshops. Thriving while parenting neurodivergent children is possible!
- [Parenting Neurodivergent Teens Support Group](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting-teens-support-group/) - Support Group for Parents of Neurodivergent Teens Parenting a neurodivergent (aka “Orchid”) teen can feel overwhelming, isolating, and unpredictable. You’ve learned a lot already, but the teen years bring new challenges, questions, and moments that make you wonder “Am I doing this right?” and “What do I do now?” We want you to feel supported,
- [Workshop-Replays](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/workshop-replays/) - A great resources for parents of neurodivergent kids. Find recordings of workshops ranging from literacy to navigating family to IEP programs.
- [Core Course Home Page](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/test-core-course-week-1/) - Price: $375 First Name:* First Name Required Last Name:* Last Name Required Address Line 1:* Address Line 1 is Required Address Line 2: Address Line 2 is not valid City:* City is Required Country:* Country is Required -- Select Country -- United States (US) Afghanistan Åland Islands Albania Algeria Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and
- [Membership](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/membership/) - A parenting support group for graduates of our Core Course program.
- [Core Course](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/core-course/) - An 8-week online course for parenting neurodivergent children. Learn practical, usable parenting strategies while connecting with other parents.
- [Screen Hygiene Workshop June 2026 (Replay)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/screen-hygiene-june-2026/) - Screen Hygiene June 2026 Workshop Replay We hope that you receive some valuable information from the Screen Hygiene workshop. View the Slide Deck here. Please let us know your thoughts about this workshop by filling out this brief feedback form here.
- [ROK Live Workshops](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/rok-live-workshops/)
- [Core Course Week 7](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/test-core-course-week-1/core-course-week-7/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
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- [Core Course Week 6](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/test-core-course-week-1/core-course-week-6/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Core Course Week 5](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/test-core-course-week-1/core-course-week-4-2/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Core Course Week 2](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/test-core-course-week-1/core-course-week-2/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Core Course Week 4](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/test-core-course-week-1/core-course-week-4/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Core Course Week 3](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/test-core-course-week-1/core-course-week-3/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Core Course Week 1](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/test-core-course-week-1/core-course-week-1/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [ROK Workshops](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/workshop-replays/rok-workshops/) - Nervous System BurnoutWhat parents of autistic children need to know about burnout in themselves and in their children Date: April 15 Time: 12:00 PM Eastern Location: Zoom Length: 1 hour Parenting an autistic child can be beautiful, demanding, tender, and intense, sometimes all before breakfast. Many families are living with chronic overload without always having
- [Membership Private Page](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/membership-private-page-2/) - MenuMy AccountForum Welcome to Raising Orchid Kids Membership We’re so glad you’ll be joining us as member, where you can get ongoing support from Jen and Gabriele and find community among other parents raising Orchid Kids! Find all your lessons below. Resources Over the years, we have carefully and intentionally gathered dozens of helpful resource
- [Account](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/account/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Training](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/membership-private-page/parenting-teens-monthly-qa/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Simplifying Literacy (Replay Purchase)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/simplifying-literacy-replay-purchase/) - Simplifying Literacy A Speech-to-Print Approach for Parents of Neurodivergent Kids Who Struggle with Reading We hope that you receive some valuable information from the Simplifying Literacy: A Speech-to-Print Approach for Parents of Neurodivergent Kids Who Struggle with Reading workshop. Below, you’ll find a recording of the workshop as well as two links to support materials. Please
- [About Us](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/about-us/) - Meet parent coaches Gabriele Nicolete and Jen Dryer and learn how they started on their journey to helping neurodivergent children and their families.
- [Webinars](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/membership-private-page/webinars/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Managing Siblings A 2-Part Workshop (Replay Purchase)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/managing-siblings-a-2-part-workshop-replay-purchase/) - A 2-part workshop for Parents of Both Orchid and Non-Orchid Kids
- [Parenting Neurodivergent Kids as a Team (Replay Purchase)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/parenting-neurodivergent-kids-as-a-team-replay-purchase/) - Parenting Neurodivergent Kids as a Team We hope that you receive some valuable information from the Parenting Neurodivergent Kids as a Team workshop. Please let us know your thoughts about this workshop by filling out this brief feedback form here.
- [Navigating well-meaning but misguided support (Replay Purchase)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/navigating-well-meaning-but-misguided-support-replay-purchase/) - Navigating Well-Meaning but Misguided Support We hope that you receive some valuable information from the Navigating Well-Meaning but Misguided Support workshop. Please let us know your thoughts about this workshop by filling out this brief feedback form here.
- [Membership Private Page](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/membership-private-page/) - MenuMy AccountForum Welcome to Raising Orchid Kids Membership We’re so glad you’ll be joining us as member, where you can get ongoing support from Jen and Gabriele and find community among other parents raising Orchid Kids! Find all your lessons below. Exclusive Live Q&A One of the best things about the Raising Orchid Kids membership
- [Is This You?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/is-this-you/) - Does any of this sound familiar? You… Have become an anxious person around your child. Are not taking care of yourself like you used to. Feel overwhelmed and embarrassed by your child’s behavior and emotional struggles. Don’t understand why your child is the way they are. You just want them to be “normal.” Feel like
- [Testimonials from parents of Orchid Kids](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/testimonials-orchid-kid-parents/) - Read testimonials from Orchid Kid parents who have taken our courses over the years and learned tips and techniques that support neurodivergent children.
- [Blog](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/blog/) - DevelopmentParentingRaisingOrchidKidsTips May 2, 2026 Neurodiversity-Affirming Care Is Not “Anything Goes” Parenting One of the questions we hear a lot is some version of this: “Okay, but… Mackenzie Connor 0 BehaviorParentingPerspectiveTips April 11, 2026 It Might Not Be “Behavior”: Environmental Factors That Can Throw Neurospicy Kids Off Course There are times of year when parents start
- [Thriving (not just surviving!) the holidays (Replay Purchase)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/thriving-not-just-surviving-the-holidays-replay-purchase/) - Thriving (Not Just Surviving!) the Holidays with Orchid Kids & Teens We hope that you receive some valuable information from the Thriving (not just surviving!) the holidays workshop. You can download the slides here. Please let us know your thoughts about this workshop by filling out this brief feedback form here.
- [Orchid Kid Check List Sign-Up](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/orchid-kid-check-list-sign-up/) - Not sure if you might have an Orchid Kid? Sign up for a free checklist to to better understand what characterizes an Orchid Kid.
- [Talk About Diagnosis (Replay Purchase)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/talk-about-diagnosis-replay-purchase/) - Talking to Your Child About Their Diagnosis Workshop Replay We hope that you receive some valuable information from the IEP Workshop! You can download the slides here. Please let us know your thoughts about this workshop by filling out this brief feedback form here.
- [Summer Skill Building Workshop](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/summer-skills-live-workshop/) - Summer Skill Building: Executive Functioning Edition On Thursday, June 1st from 12-1pm Eastern, we’re getting together to talk about how to leverage the summer schedule for some Executive Functioning Skill-Building. Because Orchids often need a break, while also needing structure, summer is the perfect time to work in some skill building while also having fun.
- [Resources](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/membership-private-page/resources/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Summer Skill Building Workshop (Replay Purchase)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/summer-skill-building-workshop-replay-purchase/) - Summer Skill Building Workshop Replay We hope that you receive some valuable information from the Summer Skill Building Workshop! You can download the slides here. Please let us know your thoughts about this workshop by filling out this brief feedback form here.
- [IEP Workshop (Replay Purchase)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/iep-workshop-replay/) - Individualized Education Program (IEP) Workshop Replay We hope that you receive some valuable information from the IEP Workshop! You can download the slides here. Please let us know your thoughts about this workshop by filling out this brief feedback form here.
- [Mini-Intensive](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/mini-intensive/) - Sign up to receive a free checklist to help you understand if you might be raising an Orchid Kid. First Name *Email Address * Subscribe Feeling like you need 1:1 support right now? We can do that! Through our 3-week 1:1 mini-intensives, you’ll feel heard, seen and understood. You’ll come away with some key mindset
- [Thank You!](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/thank-you-mini-intensive/) - Thank you! We’re so glad you’ve signed up for 1:1 mini-intensive coaching! We will contact you shortly to set up the dates and times for your appointments. In the meantime, here’s a short video you can watch that outlines what to expect during our time together.
- [Thank You (Live Workshops)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/thank-you-live-workshops/) - Your subscription has been set up successfully.
- [Screen Hygiene Workshop (Replay)](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/screen-hygiene-workshop-replay/) - Screen Hygiene Workshop We hope that you receive some valuable information from the Screen Hygiene Workshop! You can download the slides here. Please let us know your thoughts about this workshop by filling out this brief feedback form here.
- [Thank You ()](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/thank-you-3/) - Your subscription has been set up successfully.
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- [Opt-In Page](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/optin/) - Name *Email Address *Subscribe Sign up to receive a free checklist to help you understand if you might be raising an Orchid Kid.
- [Thank You ()](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/thank-you-2/) - Thank you for purchasing the Screen Hygiene Workshop! Please check your email for your payment receipt and information on how to access your account.
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- [Module Five: Natural and Logical Consequences](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/membership-private-page/training/module-five-natural-and-logical-consequences/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Module Four: Functions of Behavior](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/membership-private-page/training/module-four-functions-of-behavior/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
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- [Module Two: Developmental Stages and Your Child’s Sensory Profile](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/membership-private-page/training/week-two-developmental-stages-and-your-childs-sensory-profile/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
- [Module One: Understanding Parents and Children](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/membership-private-page/training/raising-orchids-module-one-understanding-parents-and-chlidren/) - You are unauthorized to view this page. Username or E-mail Password Remember Me Forgot Password
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## Topics

- [Is there financial support offered to take care of therapy and/or medication?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/is-there-financial-support-offered-to-take-care-of-therapy-and-or-medication/) - Is there any financial support offered to take care of therapy and/or medication?
- [What kind of mental health help will my child need for their diagnosis?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/what-kind-of-mental-health-help-will-my-child-need-for-their-diagnosis/) - What kind of mental health help will my child need for their diagnosis?
- [How will public school help support my child’s needs based on their diagnosis?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/how-will-public-school-help-support-my-childs-needs-based-on-their-diagnosis/) - How will public school help to support my child’s needs based on their diagnosis?
- [Are there any national groups I can join to help me better parent my orchid?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/are-there-any-national-groups-i-can-join-to-help-me-better-parent-my-orchid/) - Are there any national groups I can join to help me better parent my neurodiverse child?
- [Where can I look to find a good therapist?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/where-can-i-look-to-find-a-good-therapist/) - Where can I look to find a good therapist?
- [My child seems to enjoy being alone more than socializing.](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/my-child-seems-to-enjoy-being-alone-more-than-socializing/) - My child seems to enjoy being alone more than socializing.
- [How to coach my kid through bullying](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/how-to-coach-my-kid-through-bullying/) - How to coach my kid through bullying
- [How do I help my child make friends that won’t judge them?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/how-do-i-help-my-child-make-friends-that-wont-judge-them/) - How do I help my child make friends that won’t judge them?
- [What can I do to encourage team sports for my child?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/what-can-i-do-to-encourage-team-sports-for-my-child/) - What can I do to encourage team sports for my child?
- [Getting an accurate diagnosis](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/getting-an-accurate-diagnosis/) - Getting an accurate diagnosis
- [Getting a timely diagnosis](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/getting-a-timely-diagnosis/) - Getting a timely diagnosis
- [What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/what-is-the-difference-between-add-and-adhd/) - What is the difference between ADD and ADHD?
- [What are the implications of getting a school led diagnosis?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/what-are-the-implications-of-getting-a-school-led-diagnosis/) - What are the implications of getting a school led diagnosis?
- [What does the diagnosis mean for my child’s future?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/what-does-the-diagnosis-mean-for-my-childs-future/) - What does the diagnosis mean for my child’s future?
- [How do I navigate my own feelings when trying to regulate my child’s?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/how-do-i-navigate-my-own-feelings-when-trying-to-regulate-my-childs/) - How do I navigate my own feelings when trying to regulate my child’s?
- [My child bypasses emotions only to have them blow up at a later time.](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/my-child-bypasses-emotions-only-to-have-them-blow-up-at-a-later-time/) - My child bypasses emotions only to have them blow up at a later time.
- [How do I help my child when they’re throwing a tantrum?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/how-do-i-help-my-child-when-theyre-throwing-a-tantrum/) - How do I help my child when they’re throwing a tantrum?
- [How do encourage my child individuality but keep them from standing out?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/how-do-encourage-my-child-individuality-but-keep-them-from-standing-out/) - How do encourage my child individuality but keep them from standing out in a crowd in a negative way?
- [Do I have to have a conversation with my child about their diagnosis?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/do-i-have-to-have-a-conversation-with-my-child-about-their-diagnosis/) - Do I have to have a conversation with my child about their diagnosis?
- [How can I help my child find a job that is not affected by their diagnosis?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/how-can-i-help-my-child-find-a-job-that-is-not-affected-by-their-diagnosis/) - How can I help my child find a job that is not affected by their diagnosis?
- [What will it take to prepare my child for high school?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/what-will-it-take-to-prepare-my-child-for-high-school/) - What will it take to prepare my child for high school?
- [How do I set my Orchid up for success as a teenager?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/how-do-i-set-my-orchid-up-for-success-as-a-teenager/) - How do I set my Orchid up for success as a teenager?
- [My child takes up all my time and I am unsure how to create space for myself.](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/my-child-takes-up-all-my-time-and-i-am-unsure-how-to-create-space-for-myself/) - My child takes up all my time and I am unsure how to create space for myself and my needs.
- [How do I get my child to shift gears?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/how-do-i-get-my-child-to-shift-gears/) - How do I get my child to shift gears without them feeling like I am bored or annoyed?
- [How can I connect with other parents with children with a similar diagnosis?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/how-can-i-connect-with-other-parents-with-children-with-a-similar-diagnosis/) - How can I connect with other parents with children with a similar diagnosis?
- [Is there any childcare that specializes in my child’s diagnosis?](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/is-there-any-childcare-that-specializes-in-my-childs-diagnosis/) - Is there any childcare that specializes in my child’s diagnosis?
- [Hi, I'm Kari!](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/topic/hi-im-kari/) - I'm Kari, and I'm so excited to join this forum and connect with all of you! Let me introduce myself as a proud mom of three amazing kiddos. My orchid is 11 years old and has Autism Spectrum Disorder. He's such a loving and smart little man, and brings endless happiness into our lives. He

## Replies

- [](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/forums/reply/1213/) - Redirecting to a preferred task, like music for our son, sometimes works. Also, coming up with a compromise solution, such as, we do this (math for example) for 10 minutes now and 10 minutes later (instead of the original 20 minutes plan now). And, using the something he wants as a reward for something else

## Memberships

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## Groups

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## Courses

- [Screen Hygiene Workshop](https://www.raisingorchidkids.com/courses/screen-hygiene-workshop/) - Screen Hygiene Workshop We hope that you receive some valuable information from the Screen Hygiene Workshop! You can download the slides here. Please let us know your thoughts about this workshop by filling out this brief feedback form here.

## Categories

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## Tags

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