Children’s Mental Health Week: Helping Autistic Children Manage Overwhelm, Shutdowns and Big Emotions

Today's episode is for Children's Mental Health Week. I'm delighted to be joined by my daughter Eva, and together, we're talking about belonging, feeling seen and heard, and what actually helps when children are struggling with overwhelm, shutdowns and big emotions. This is a gentle, honest conversation, not from theory, but from lived experience, about what children really need to feel safe, understood and supported. Our recent guests have all been echoing a theme of positive inner self talk, and it's been lovely to hear. It's a reminder that we all need to be kind to ourselves inwardly, especially when we're going through darker times. Sometimes what we need most is space and time to work through that, trusting that we will come out the other side. Neurodivergent children don't always understand the emotions they're feeling or have the words to explain. When we ask, what are you feeling? The honest answer is often, I don't know. That doesn't mean nothing's going on. It means they're still learning how to make sense of it. And today we're going to explore that a little bit together. EPISODE REVEALS Try not to be so hard on yourself. It’s difficult, but being gentler with yourself makes a real difference. You’re not alone. Even when you feel different or isolated, there are others who feel the same way or who can empathise with you. People who truly get you - when you find them you will know. Give yourself space and time to process things. It’s okay not to have the words yet. Understanding what you’re feeling can take time. When your child is melting down, stay kind and give them space. Let them know you’re there, don’t shout, and remember: if they’re already beating themselves up, they don’t need you to add to it. Remember that even on the darkest cloud days, the blue sky is still there behind the clouds. Tough times and feelings pass and change just like the weather—those heavy, bleak feelings will pass. BEST MOMENTS “(Good) mental health starts with feeling seen, heard, and accepted. And when you're in environments that don't understand you, it can be quite difficult.” "Fitting in somewhere, means feeling safe with a group of people or person, and being able to be yourself and fit in well with them." "It's hard to find people that are like me or who are a bit different than everyone else, but when you find them, you'll know." "Remember adults to look after yourselves as well." EVA´S LINKS Eva´s you tube channel is InspireWithUsYT https://www.youtube.com/@InspireWithUsYT RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/