Demystifying Child's Play | Play Schemas

049 Connect Before You Correct: Parenting Neurodiverse Kids with Compassion

Ruth Vercoe Episode 49

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0:00 | 33:31

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Ever wondered how to truly connect with your neurodiverse child, especially when life feels like one long guessing game? In this episode of Demystifying Child’s Play, host Ruth Vercoe welcomes Sarah from We Are Equal — a mum of four, early childhood teacher, and passionate advocate for neurodiversity, to share the five powerful lessons she wishes she’d known going into parenting her autistic son.  

From navigating “safe foods” and understanding sensory overload to handling social pressures, stimming, and affection in ways that honour your child’s needs, Sarah’s real-life stories offer empathy, relief, and practical wisdom. You’ll learn why connection before correction can transform those challenging moments into opportunities for growth, for both you and your child.  

Whether you’re parenting a neurodiverse or neurotypical child, this episode is a gentle reminder that it’s okay to slow down, give yourself grace, and focus on what truly matters: connection, understanding, and love.  

Tune in, learn alongside us, and share this episode with a friend who could use some reassurance that they’re doing an amazing job.

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