What does it mean to be neurodiversity affirming?
Neurodivergent children, for example those with ADHD or autism, have a brain structure and chemistry that is fundamentally different from typical brains (or neurotypical brains). Navigating the healthcare system for a neurodivergent child, whether they are autistic, have ADHD, or face specific learning differences, can be challenging. Often, traditional assessments and therapies are designed to "correct" neurodivergent traits, focusing on perceived deficits rather than celebrating the child's unique strengths.
At Hi Thrive, we are committed to a neurodiversity-affirming approach.
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in Autistic Children
Parenting a child on the autism spectrum comes with its unique challenges, and among them is the lesser-known condition called Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). PDA is widely understood to be a profile on the autistic spectrum, characterised by an avoidance of everyday demands and the use of ‘social’ strategies to as a means for avoidance.