You Can’t Ignore the Senses: Understanding the Hidden Triggers Behind Some ADHD or Autism Meltdowns with Jacki Edry

Today, I am joined by Jacki Edry, an autism and neurodiversity advocate with more than 40 years of experience. Jacki shares her journey from volunteering with autistic children as a teenager to supporting her own son, whom she recognised as potentially autistic at a very young age. In 2013, Jacki discovered she had a massive brain stem tumour. Her recovery gave her a unique firsthand understanding of sensory processing challenges and how they can affect the way we interpret the world around us. We explore how sensory processing difficulties can affect learning, behaviour, meltdowns and shutdowns - and why these should be understood as communication rather than simply as misbehaviour. Jacki also shares practical ways to support children and adults experiencing sensory and processing challenges, including environmental adjustments, assistive technology and sensory-friendly approaches that can significantly improve quality of life. EPISODE REVEALS · Sometimes what looks like overwhelm is actually a processing problem. If you can´t see or hear properly, the brain can’t take in, filter, organise or make sense of what is going on around you. Making everyday environments confusing, frightening and exhausting. · Visual and auditory processing differences can profoundly change how you experience the world. Lights, movement, background noise and competing voices can make it difficult to understand what’s happening. · Check for visual, auditory and interpretation issues. Many of these issues can be corrected or diminished. Look beyond the diagnosis. · Don´t just stick with the regular tests. A regular hearing test will only pick up whether you can hear the beeps and totally miss the fact there is a delay in the words reaching your brain for interpretation or the inability to pick one voice out from background noise. BEST MOMENTS “You can't argue with the senses.” “A meltdown always always has a reason.” “It doesn't get better just because you know it - because you've been through that situation 1000 times.” “Stimming is not a behaviour. It looks like a behaviour. It's a symptom of a dysregulated system.” “Don't give it a label. Let's figure out how to help.” ABOUT THE GUESTS https://www.jackiedry.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacki-edry-7583346/ Facebook @jackisbooks Irlen syndrome: https://irlen.com/ RESOURCES Famisafe Parental control App Link: https://wondersharesoftware.pxf.io/ParentingAUDHD What to Do When Your Child Shuts Down: Real-World Parenting Strategies for Neurodivergent Kids Who Shut Down, Refuse School, or Just Stop communicating with you: https://amzn.eu/d/0fBIfbhR CLIFF´S SERVICES Are you struggling with anxiety and want support from someone who has been there and come out the other side? - Message Cliff here and take advantage of his founding members offer: https://m.me/cliff.kilmister CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff 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/