Michael Grose I Parenting Toolbox

Michael Grose I Parenting Toolbox

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Michael Grose I Parenting Toolbox
Michael Grose I Parenting Toolbox
Communicating Successfully with Neurodiverse Kids: A Practical Guide.

Communicating Successfully with Neurodiverse Kids: A Practical Guide.

Build a bridge of connection with neurodiverse kids.

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Michael Grose
Jun 26, 2025
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Michael Grose I Parenting Toolbox
Michael Grose I Parenting Toolbox
Communicating Successfully with Neurodiverse Kids: A Practical Guide.
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Communicating with kids is a massive challenge, a constant dance of decoding and responding.

The challenge is amplified tenfold when a child’s brain operates on a different frequency.

I’m talking about neurodiversity, that spectrum of brains that includes autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and more.

With an estimated 15%-20% of children in Australian schools* (and similar numbers in other developed countries) classified as neurodivergent, we’d all better learn to communicate effectively with them.

Navigating communication with these kids can feel like trying to solve a Rubik's Cube blindfolded.

But it's absolutely possible, and the rewards are enormous.

Understanding the Wiring

First, ditch the idea of a one-size-fits-all communication approach.

I know, I know.

You’ve probably just worked out the communication formula, only to find it doesn’t always work.

Neurodiverse children process information differently.

They usually:

  • Take things literally: Sarcasm, metaphors, and abstract concepts fly right over their heads. (This is the hard one for me, as I so often use metaphors.)

  • Struggle with social cues: Facial expressions, body language, and implied meanings might be missed entirely. (I need to make sure I always make eye contact.)

  • Have sensory sensitivities: Noisy environments, bright lights, or even certain textures can overwhelm them, hindering their ability to communicate effectively. (My best work with neurodivergent kids is always done in quiet spaces.)

  • Experience processing delays: It might take them longer to understand and respond to what you're saying. (Patience, repetition and just-in-time instructions are my main modus operandi)

Recognising these differences is the first step towards building a communication bridge.

But recognition and application of effective strategies are two different things.

The second step - learning how to communicate with neurodivergent kids - is what I will show you next.

Practical Strategies for Connection

Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty.

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