Q&A: When and how should I tell my child about his autism diagnosis?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about...

• Why many parents worry that using the word "autism" might make their child feel different or labeled, and how to think about that fear.
• What research and clinical experience suggest about telling your child sooner rather than later.
• How giving a diagnosis a name can actually feel empowering and help your child make sense of their experiences.
• What it looks like to take a neuroaffirming, strengths-based approach when talking about autism.
• How to explain autism to a young child in developmentally appropriate, non-pathologizing language.Why this doesn't have to be one big, serious conversation and how to follow your child's lead over time.
• The value of being the one who defines what autism means for your child, before the world does.
• Simple ways to normalize and support your child through representation, stories, and everyday conversations.

This episode will help you understand how to talk about neurodiversity in a way that feels simple, affirming, and age-appropriate, so your child can better understand their brain, their strengths, and the ways they experience the world.

REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES:

🔗 Every child deserves to feel safe, understood, and supported, and every parent deserves a place to turn. At Upshur Bren Psychology Group, we offer a full continuum of autism services: diagnostic testing, individual therapy, and parent support groups for families raising children and young adults on the spectrum. Visit upshurbren.com or schedule a free 30-minute consultation call to learn more about support options for you and your child.

📚 Different Thinkers: Autism by Katia Fredriksen PhD and Yael Rothman PhD

📚 Wonderfully Wired Brains: An Introduction to the World of Neurodiversity

CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE:

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about how to help autistic kids build joy, confidence, and connection with Dr. Peter Vermeulen

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about treating autism with a strength based approach with Dr. Lynn Kern Koegel

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about whether a neuropsych Evaluation is right for your child with Dr. Yael Rothman & Dr. Katia Fredriksen

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about how to modify traditional sleep strategies for neurodiverse brains with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:

Go to https://drsarahbren.com/question to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!