Crossing the spectrum: June's drop-in session for parents of neurodivergent children

At June's support group, our second one, we were joined by Lana Grant. Lana is an autism specialist who provided valuable insight from both her professional and personal perspectives, sharing her experiences as an autistic adult and as a parent of children with neurodiverse needs. Drawing on her extensive background in education and autism inclusion, Lana discussed her work over the past twenty years with schools and families supporting autistic children and young people.

Throughout the session, Lana drew upon both her professional expertise and lived experience to answer parents' questions with practical guidance on a range of individual circumstances. She offered advice around Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), explaining their purpose and importance whilst also acknowledging the potential changes being proposed within the current system.

Lana also explored the impact of masking, highlighting how it can present in both girls and boys and the challenges this can create in identifying needs and accessing appropriate support. She discussed the strong links between autism and anxiety, helping parents better understand how anxiety can present and affect behaviour, wellbeing and engagement in education.

In addition, Lana shared her views on Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA), emphasising that there is still insufficient recognition and understanding of this issue. Parents gained valuable insight into the factors that can contribute to EBSA and the importance of early identification and appropriate support.

Lana brought warmth, humour and compassion, creating an open and supportive environment for parents and carers. Her passion for improving awareness and understanding was evident throughout, as was her recognition of the ever growing need for accessible and meaningful support for families.

We had a great turnout again, despite the rain and last-minute venue change (thank you to Alrewas Cricket Club). There was opportunities to talk together, also with Dr Zoe Cross, and share experiences and insights. One of our parents was accompanied by their son who sat quietly drawing this wonderful nature picture.

We also celebrated our 'wins of the week' as you can see on the board below. Our group is for the community - Alrewas and surrounding villages - you are most welcome to join us - next meeting is Thursday 2nd July.

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Written by Jade Shipton - Parent Advocate

Reviewed by Dr Zoe Cross, DClinPsy, CPsychol, is a Clinical Psychologist and founder of Cross Psychology. She specialises in neurodivergent conditions including ADHD, autism and cognitive differences such as dyslexia and dyscalculia in children, young people and adults. Zoe is regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (membership number PYL24596)