Navigating the School Maze: Finding the Right Fit for Neurodiversity

The school bell rings, a sound that echoes differently for every family. But when you're parenting neurodiverse kids, that bell can signal a whole symphony of emotions. From public to private, selective to supportive, the options seem endless, and the choices? Well, they can feel monumental.

My eldest daughter started her journey in a public primary school in Sydney. She thrived academically, a quiet and focused child who learned everything early. Acing her way into a selective high school seemed like the perfect next step, but the daily commute from the Central Coast proved an unexpected hurdle. The long hours and sheer exhaustion took their toll, and we made the switch to private education (oh and she wanted to horse ride...).

It was a game-changer, not just for her, but for my younger daughter who was starting kindergarten. While my eldest navigated the choppy waters of friendships and teenage years (a challenge in itself!), the smaller class sizes and individualised attention in the private system provided a much-needed anchor.

Then came the diagnoses. My youngest, a whirlwind of energy, was first. "Can't sit still," they said. Observations, conversations, and finally, the assessment (plus WISC) that confirmed our suspicions – ADHD, Level 2 ASD with ODD and gifted. Thankfully, the school has been incredible, offering support and understanding every step of the way.

My eldest received her diagnosis later, unlocking the reasons behind her social struggles and paving the way for exam support that truly leveled the playing field. Again, the school stepped up, proving that the right environment can make all the difference.

My son? He's our little "outré", needing support right from the get-go. Kindergarten has been a rollercoaster, and the transition to Year 1 looms large. Maturity-wise, he's not quite there yet, and that's okay I think, well we

don't have a choice and so we're learning to navigate his unique path, one day at a time.

This journey has been a masterclass in advocacy. Here's what I've learned:

• Become an expert:  Educate yourself relentlessly about your child's needs. Knowledge is power.

• Build your tribe:  Connect with therapists, specialists, and support groups. Share your experiences and learn from others.

• Don't be afraid to ask (and ask again!):  Advocate for your child at every turn. Talk to teachers, the principal, your GP – anyone who will listen.

• Foster open communication: Be honest and transparent with your child's school. Share insights from therapists and work together to create a supportive learning environment.

• Find a pediatrician you trust: This can be a game-changer in getting the right diagnoses and support.

It's a constant dance, this parenting gig. Some days are smoother than others, but I refuse to give up. I see my three children, each so different, yet bound by this invisible thread of neurodiversity. Their journey fascinates me, challenges me, and fills me with a fierce kind of pride.

Today, I fly their flag high. Today, I celebrate their unique brilliance. And tomorrow? Well, tomorrow, we learn and grow together. Because that's what love does. It perseveres. It empowers. It never gives up.