My ND Kids Parent Support Group

My ND Kids is an education and support group for parents of Neurodivergent children. 

The aim of the group is to provide a safe, trauma informed and non-judgmental forum for parents to learn more about communication and feeding related supports for their ND children. 

Who is running the group?

The group is facilitated by an experienced, ND Speech Pathologist and Mum to two beautiful ND children. Claire has many years experience and specialised training in facilitating therapy groups in hospitals, inpatient mental health units, community programs and private practice. 

What does neurodivergent mean?

All people with lived experience of neurological functioning that "diverges from dominant societal norms, standards, and expectations" (quote from Sonny Jane Wise - lived experience educator).

In other words - anybody whose brain differences affect how they work, play, learn, communicate, live.

So - some people who identify as Neurodivergent might be 

- Autistic 

- ADHD 

- Dyslexic

- Anxiety or other mental health conditions

- Down syndrome or another genetic condition 

- Sensory Processing Disorder** 

- Language Disorder 

- Intellectual Disability 

- Speech Sound Disorder

** We don't like the term disorder ; ) but more on that later in the group!!

Anybody whose child identifies as ND is welcome - a formal diagnosis is not necessary in recognition of the cost and logistic barriers to diagnostic assessment

How? 

Online - teleconference

When?

Fortnightly Friday lunchtime 12-1 Qld time 

How much?

Free

• For parents to build knowledge, skills and confidence in supporting their child with communication differences 

• For parents to build meaningful connections with other parents with a shared lived experience, to reduce stress and support connectedness and knowledge

• For parents to build practical skills in supporting themselves and other family members or important people in their child's life such as teachers, play group facilitators, friends 

• For parents to learn about resources that support their learning and support needs, as well as the learning and support needs of their child (from a Speech Pathology point of view - communication and feeding development) 

• Access to an experienced Speech Pathologist and evidence based information 
• More cost effective and convenient than 1:1 sessions 
• Build a support network 
• Inclusive, flexible forum with participation accommodations - no pressure for camera on/off, chat function option for those who prefer not to be seen
• Telehealth forum (online)
• Convenient times for parents 

Example Topics 

(These may change to adapt to the needs of the individuals making up the group - e.g. is communication or feeding your focus?)

• What is Neurodiversity Affirming care? Why is it important for me and my child?

• How can I make a profile of my child's communication strengths and differences? Why is this a useful thing to do?

• What can I do to support my child's communication at home / in the community / at school/daycare?  

• How can I advocate for my child's support needs?

• What communication skills can I work on as a parent to support my child and my family?

• What does neurodiverse affirming feeding support look like?  How can I tell if my therapist is ND affirming?

After the group

• Access to all resources shared during the presentation

Email claire@myspeechlife.com.au

or book online here

We will send you a reply with a request for some extra info to get you signed up!