The holidays are loud. They sparkle, they smell, they hum with overstimulation—and for neurodiverse kids, that can be a sensory tsunami. Whether it’s flashing lights, new foods, hugging relatives, or just being out of routine, the season is filled with sensory demands that overwhelm even the most regulated child. But you can absolutely create safe […]
For families navigating sensory overload, expectations, and emotional exhaustion The holidays are often described as joyful — but for many parents of neurodiverse children, they can feel loud, fast, and heavy. School routines disappear. Family dynamics resurface. Sensory input multiplies. Sometimes what parents need most isn’t another checklist — it’s permission to slow down. These […]
When you’re looking for the perfect way to relax during the winter break, dyslexia-friendly graphic novels offer a wonderful option. These stories are designed to be accessible and engaging, helping you or your loved ones enjoy reading without the usual frustrations. Choosing books tailored to different reading needs can boost confidence, nurture a love for […]
Reading Time: 7 minutes Table of Contents Why Winter Break Is Hard for Neurodiverse Kids Creating Daily Rhythms Without Rigid Schedules 5 Steps to Winter Break Predictability Essential Tools for Calm Winter Days When Things Fall Apart (And They Will) FAQ: Winter Break Questions Answered Winter break is supposed to feel magical. But if you're […]
Are you constantly measuring your child's worth—and your parenting success—by letter grades and standardized milestones? In this transformative episode of The Parenting Cipher, special education advocate Genie Dawkins reveals why the most meaningful progress often happens in the quiet moments we overlook. Drawing from personal experiences raising two sons with autism spectrum disorder, Genie explores […]
It's that time of year again—Open Enrollment season. And if you're parenting a neurodiverse child, you already know that choosing the right healthcare plan isn't just about comparing premiums and copays. It's about making sure your child has access to the care they actually need—whether that's occupational therapy, a developmental pediatrician who listens, probiotics for […]
If you've ever felt dismissed during a doctor's visit, struggled to explain your child's symptoms clearly, or wondered if that "stomach ache" is anxiety or something more serious—this conversation is for you. In this episode of The Parenting Cipher Podcast, host Genie Dawkins sits down with Dr. Timothy McKnight, a retired pediatrician with decades of […]
Opening: A Week When the Ground Shifted The week of November 23–28, 2025 delivered some of the biggest special education policy changes we’ve seen in years. While many families were preparing for the holidays, major federal and state education policy updates reshaped how schools will serve neurodiverse learners in 2026 and beyond. The Trump administration […]
