Dear Parents of Neurodivergent Children,

Summer is ending, and it’s time for a moment many parents and kids dread – back to school. My original plan was to share tips on how to transition your child back to the routine and structure of school. However, as I sat down to write, I was haunted by memories of what back to school meant to me as a parent of a neurodivergent child. I know I’m not the only one who has experienced this anxiety-provoking feeling (but I always felt alone), and so instead, I want to share a different type of message – a vulnerable and raw take on my own parenting experiences, in the hopes you feel validated and can prepare for the new school season as best you can.

My anxiety always bubbled up around this time of year. At times, it caused nightmares as I asked myself, “Will this year be the year........

© Psychology Today