Crossing the Spectrum: Support for parents of neurodivergent children
- Dr Zoe Cross
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
JUNE 2026: Introductions and the start of something refreshingly new…
What is the parent drop-in all about? May’s parent drop-in session marked the first step in bringing together a local community of parents of neuro-divergent children. We had a great turnout with 22 parents in attendance. We served hot drinks as everyone arrived and gave people the chance to chat together. Dr Zoe Cross, Cross Psychology, introduced the thinking behind Crossing the Spectrum - providing ongoing support for parents of neurodivergent children - and explained how it was developed, along with who she is and what she does (more of that here).
The event itself… A parent shared their journey story, from pre-diagnosis to present school challenges, which sparked a lively and interesting discussion where almost everyone spoke! There followed an opportunity for more tea and coffee so that the group could chat more privately to Zoe and each other. And in true community spirit we also included a suggestion box for themes for future session and an opportunity to share their ‘win of the week’.
Dr Zoe Cross explained “The drop-in is part of a vision to create ongoing care and support for parents following the diagnosis of any form of neurodivergence – ADHD, autism, and everything in between. Getting a diagnosis is often an emotional and, if you have gone via the NHS, a lengthy process. It takes energy and determination to get this far. But then what? Our drop-ins are just the start, we have lots in the pipeline designed to continue support to help navigate neurodivergence, for all age children.”
What’s next for parents of neurodivergent children in Alrewas and neighbouring villages? Going forward, we’re holding our next event along the same lines on Thursday 11th June - 10am until 12 noon - at The Bank Coffee House in Alrewas. We’re also planning a relaxing session on 16th July, featuring a picnic and yoga or breathwork, which was a popular idea. We discussed holding another session after the kids go back to school, which was well received. Parents will also be relieved to know that we’re also going to cover “how to successfully approach the school holidays”!
Our guest speaker Lana Grant… On 11th June our guest speaker will be Lana Grant who has a Lichfield-based autism and asperger consultancy and advisory service. She delivers bespoke autism training packages for parent support groups, educational providers and healthcare professionals. We’re very much looking forward to meeting Lana and sharing in her wisdom .
Thank you to The Bank Coffee House who have provided a wonderful space for us to meet in. Their hospitality is generous and warm and wholly supportive of what we’re doing at Crossing the Spectrum. We must also acknowledge the wonderful funding we’re being given by the Alrewas and Fradley Charities who are completely behind this initiative and have acknowledged its need within the area.
You’re very welcome! Do come along if you are the parent or carer of a neurodivergent child, diagnosed or not. It’s a safe space to meet and share experiences, ideas and inspiration and help each other through any challenges or concerns – but also to celebrate the brilliance of our children and the positive aspects of neurodivergence as well.
We’ve used the words ‘share’ and ‘sharing’ quite a lot throughout this piece for which there are no apologies, it’s what it’s all about. Thursday 11th June – an important date for your diary, we’ll be sharing more then as well!
About the author: 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.
Comments