Research
Understanding your child’s neurodivergence is one of the most powerful tools you have as a parent. When you take time to educate yourself, you’re better equipped to interpret your child’s behaviors, advocate for their needs, and make thoughtful, informed choices about therapies, schooling, and daily life.
Why Research Matters
Neurodivergence isn’t one-size-fits-all. What works for one child may not work for another—and unfortunately, myths and misinformation are common. Reliable, up-to-date research helps you:
Build empathy for your child’s experience.
Identify effective strategies and interventions.
Understand your rights in education and healthcare.
Filter out unproven or harmful “quick fixes.”
As you learn, you'll develop a more nuanced view that goes beyond labels—seeing your child as a whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Where to Start: Trusted Resources - See the Resources Menu on this site to get started
Partnering with Professionals
Professionals are your teammates—not just diagnosticians. Consider scheduling consultations or informational sessions with:
Pediatric psychologists or neuropsychologists
Occupational therapists (OTs)
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs)
Educational advocates or IEP consultants
Developmental pediatricians
💡Pro Tip:
Write down questions in advance:
What sensory sensitivities are common in this diagnosis?
What executive function supports should I try at home?
How do I know when to seek formal evaluation?
Real-Life Example:
Sarah, the parent of a 7-year-old recently diagnosed with autism, was overwhelmed after the evaluation. Instead of jumping into therapy decisions, she spent a month doing research:
She read Uniquely Human and The Reason I Jump.
She joined a local autism parent group and found three families in her area with similar experiences.
She watched webinars on play-based therapy and learned about alternatives to ABA.
This groundwork gave her the confidence to create a tailored care plan, advocate for services at school, and make choices based on her child’s personality—not just the diagnosis.
Final Thoughts
Research is not about becoming an expert overnight—it’s about building confidence and clarity over time. Curiosity, not perfection, is the goal. When you approach research as an act of love and empowerment, it becomes a meaningful part of your parenting journey.