Foster parent partner shares techniques for neurodiverse children and kids who have experienced trauma
This foster parent partner’s techniques for caring for a neurodiverse child can benefit children of all neurotypes!
TikToker Laura (@fosterparenting) is a busy foster parent and foster parent partner (someone who works with biological parents and child welfare professionals to help reunite the child(ren) with their birth family) dedicated to helping other foster parents by sharing “practical tips and scripts” for parenting children that are neurodiverse or have experienced trauma.
Traveling home for the holidays? Here are 4 things you need to do right now
Recently, Laura shared a video on TikTok where she illustrates the practical dos and don’ts of neurodiverse and trauma-informed parenting, and viewers profoundly resonated with the helpful techniques.
This no-stress party dish is perfect for whipping up last minute:
The clip begins with Laura surrounded by puzzles and toys in a playroom. “Alright, please clean up now,” she says. The clip is accompanied by a demonstration of what not to do as a red, highlighted caption that reads, “Don’t give complex tasks” flashes across the screen.
Laura acts out the better strategy in the next shot. “Please put the blocks in the white bin,” she instructs, gesturing to the blocks then to the bin, specifically, concretely, and directly per the green caption on the screen.
Next, Laura emphasizes the importance of sticking to a schedule and not changing the routine, noting that this may require some compromises, such as leaving a place earlier than expected.
When sticking to a schedule, Laura also mentions that using visuals and playful transitions can be helpful. “Alright, now that we’re home, it’s time for a bath, books, and then bedtime. Can we walk like robots to the bathroom?” she asks using robot hand gestures.
Laura also models the importance of using multi-sensory learning techniques, such as asking a child which three clay balls are “big, bigger, and the biggest.”
Last but certainly not least, Laura exhibits how to handle meltdowns by allowing for emotional resets. Allowing the child to calm down will make discussing coping strategies with them more effective.
Laura’s video was not only tremendously helpful for viewers, but it also struck an emotional chord.
“I’m crying. Clear, concise directions on how to clean would have saved so much conflict in my childhood,” shared one user.
“I want to cry. This is so healing to watch. Thank you,” said one grateful viewer.
“I’m not neurodivergent, but gosh, if my mom did this, my life would be so much easier. Vague instructions literally make me cry,” one user mentioned.
It’s evident from the comments that these parenting techniques can be beneficial for people, regardless of their neurotype. Or as one viewer put it, “This helps all kids!”
Luka Sabbat on defying labels and doing your own thing: 'Fit in for what?'
In The Know is now available on Apple News — follow us here!
If you enjoyed this story, check out what you need to know about the adoption process.
The post Foster parent partner shares techniques for neurodiverse children and kids who have experienced trauma appeared first on In The Know.
More from In The Know:
Coach Outlet is having a huge clearance event, and more than 100 styles are 70% off
Gen Z can't get enough of these 4 TV shows and movies on Amazon Prime Video
