Épisodes

  • Navigating the EHCP Maze: Gathering Effective Evidence and Managing Overwhelm with Helen Foster

    Navigating the EHCP Maze: Gathering Effective Evidence and Managing Overwhelm with Helen Foster
    Feb 4 2026
    Today, Cliff is joined by Helen Foster who shares her experiences, insights, and hard-earned lessons from navigating EHCP process with her young son. They talk honestly about recognising early signs, gathering evidence, managing overwhelm, using technology to help and what it's really like advocating for a non-verbal child within a system that can often feel confusing and stacked against families. This is a grounded, real-world conversation, not from theory, but from lived experience. And it's relevant for families and adults who want to make sense of their own neuro divergent experiences. EPISODE REVEALS Recognising and keeping a record of any stimming or behaviour that supports a diagnosis will help you later. Especially during the EHCP process. Videos, a well-kept behaviour log, medical reports, assessments, and other paperwork will all support a proper assessment and diagnosis. Really look after yourself. If you don´t you can´t be there to help your child. The earlier you start and get help the better it is for your child. Local authorities worry more about money and resources than what is best for an individual child. For them, good enough is an OK option. To counter this underlying attitude, you will need to continuously advocate for your child. BEST MOMENTS “Take care of yourself, because if you can't take care of yourself, you can't take care of your little one.” “No matter how insignificant you might think it is, note it down. Keep as much evidence as you can possibly collect to either get a formal diagnosis or to initiate an EHCP.” "I'm not just settling for good enough, which is what the local authority are happy to do." EPISODE RESOURCES Instead of piecing together advice from forums and PDFs to get through the EHCP process, use the SEND help App. It provides simple explanations for each step, hands on tips and a way to store and track the documentation you need https://send-help.app/ PREVIOUS RELEVANT EPISODES Dr. Mohita episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/helping-the-brain-through-connecting-instead/id1810681675?i=1000735304072 Lara Barnes episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/nutrition-movement-and-sensory-tools-for/id1810681675?i=1000738445182 CLIFF´S SERVICES Are you struggling with anxiety and want support from someone who has been there and come out the other side? - Message Cliff here and take advantage of his founding members offer: https://m.me/cliff.kilmister Are you feeling overwhelmed with EHCP paperwork or are you stuck? Cliff, who has personally been through the process offers body‑doubling and step‑by‑step support. You can contact him here - https://m.me/cliff.kilmister RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 h et 2 min
  • What Really Helps Neurodivergent People in the Workplace with Andy Ryan

    What Really Helps Neurodivergent People in the Workplace with Andy Ryan
    Jan 28 2026
    Today. I'm joined by Andy Ryan, a late, diagnosed autistic professional who works with organisations to help them better understand support and value neurodivergent people in the workplace. In this conversation, we talk about masking, burnout, psychological safety, leadership and why so many work environments unintentionally make life harder for neurodivergent people, even when the intention is good. This is an honest, practical discussion about what actually is effective, not expensive fixes, but small mindset shifts that change everything. EPISODE REVEALS Many neurodivergent people are very capable, but they burn out in environments that are built for consistency, control, and predictability, instead of for flexibility, trust, and psychological safety. The practical changes that really help at work are often small and low-cost. They include softer lighting, reduced background noise, clearer written communication, shorter and better-structured meetings, and managers who check in on how you work best rather than assuming. You are likely to have to help your manager and work mates to understand what neurodivergence is and what helps. Start by asking for micro-accommodations rather than huge adjustments. Share your communication preferences e.g. email vs face to face, why you need a quieter desk area, work better from home or some flexibility when it comes to start times and would maybe like access to a buddy or mentor. Highlight your strengths and how you can help your manager and work mates. Show that you are a team player. As well as sharing what can derail you. Try to find work in workplaces that already work in a way that suits you. Smaller organizations are often a good choice. Make things easier for yourself by building a career in a field that you are passionate about. BEST MOMENTS "The most meaningful changes are not expensive; they are not huge." "One of my team, he told me had Asperger's. He was one of my best engineers." "My experience is that organisations are very, very good at taking those good things and not so good accommodating the challenges." "You can't do any of this work unless your decision makers and your managers really know what neuro divergence is." "For young, neurodivergent people the most important thing is finding what you're passionate at and then doggedly finding a career in that." ABOUT THE GUEST www.irregulartraining.co.uk, email - hello@irregulartraining.co.uk linkedin.com/in/andy-ryan-58452719 RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    52 min
  • Nurture Kindness, Confidence and Self-compassion with Kathryn Lovewell of the Booster Way

    Nurture Kindness, Confidence and Self-compassion with Kathryn Lovewell of the Booster Way
    Jan 21 2026
    This episode is going to be a little different because I co**ed up. I forgot to press record at the start and instead of cutting it out, we've kept it in, because that moment is exactly what today's conversation is about. It's such a pleasure for me to welcome Kathryn Lovewell from kind mind Academy, and we're talking about anxiety, the inner critic and self-compassion. Whether you are an adult or a child, it´s important to think about how we speak to ourselves when things go wrong. So, what you're about to hear isn't polished, it's real, and it perfectly demonstrates what Kathryn teaches. EPISODE REVEALS Booster and Crusher give families a shared language for inner voices: Booster is the warm, encouraging voice that builds confidence; Crusher is the harsh critic that fuels shame and shutdown. You can turn Booster up and turn Crusher down. Parents’ own self-talk and reactions model either Booster or Crusher for their kids, making family-wide self-compassion language a powerful way to build resilience together. Kathryn’s three-step “Booster Break” - name the struggle, remember common humanity, respond with kindness - is a fast, practical tool for calming the nervous system in tough moments. BEST MOMENTS "If we listen to Crusher long enough, which is my invention of my inner critic, it can lead to depression, anxiety and really dark places." "We shouldn't need to justify who we are and how we show up as humans. What we do need to do is make sure that when we go to bed, we like the person in the mirror." ABOUT THE GUESTS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, creator of The Booster Way®, and a Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion teacher. She specialises in helping children, parents, and educators tame the inner critic and grow self-compassion, through her books The Little Book of Self-Compassion and The Voices in My Head! and her family-focused Booster tools. A former teacher who has worked across schools, prisons, and community settings in the UK, USA, and Australia, Kathryn now offers compassion resilience coaching, runs programmes for families and women, and speaks internationally on emotional wellbeing. www.KindMindAcademy.com www.TheBoosterWay.com TheBoosterWayCommunity.com Curious to know how kind you are to yourself? Take a quick Self Kindness Quiz online and discover for yourself - www.SelfKindnessQuiz.com Connect with Kathryn: linkedin.com/in/kathrynlovewell www.YouTube.com/KindMindAcademy https://www.instagram.com/KathrynLovewell https://www.instagram.com/KindMindAcademy https://www.instagram.com/TheBoosterWay “The voices in my head” book - https://amzn.eu/d/g6laOjP Eva’s channel - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-sb6ecqBJk4 https://www.youtube.com/@InspireWithUsYT RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    1 h et 10 min
  • EHCPs, School Masking, and Emotional Regulation for Neurodivergent Kids with Sean McNicholas

    EHCPs, School Masking, and Emotional Regulation for Neurodivergent Kids with Sean McNicholas
    Jan 14 2026
    Today, Cliff is joined by Sean McNicholas from New Me Therapy. Sean shares his incredible journey from struggling through school and adult life with undiagnosed ADHD to becoming a therapist specialising in autism ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and brain health. Together, Cliff and Sean look at masking in school, and Sean offers a fresh perspective on why it can actually work in your favour if the school sees your child differently than you do, especially while you're trying to get an EHCP. They explore triggers, routines and CO regulation, and the strategy Sean uses in his practice, including what you can start doing today, and we look at why, understanding our own patterns, first, as adults and parents, can completely transform how we support both ourselves and our children. EPISODE REVEALS Understanding how your own brain works is the first step to managing it rather than fearing it. Simple structures (visual schedules, reminders, alarms, shared calendars) are not “cheats” – they are essential tools that help ADHD and autistic brains function day to day. Schools and families often see very different versions of the same child; both perspectives are valid and vital when seeking assessment, support, and EHCPs. Using a therapist who has lived experience of neurodivergence themselves can be more impactful than qualifications alone. Actively challenge “I’m not good enough” stories and help your children to recognise evidence of their real-life strengths. Practising confident body language and self-talk can gently grow genuine confidence over time for both children and adults. Nature, movement, and creative hobbies are regulating for many neurodivergent people and often better than tech. There is no one right path, only what is safest and most supportive for each person. BEST MOMENTS “There is real hope that you can change your or your loved ones lives.” "Our (neurodiverse) brain develops 30% slower. So, our brain is 30% immature. So, when you've got 15-year-olds, they may believe they're 15-year-olds, but they're going on 10." "I never met one client who only has ADHD." "They want to give you amphetamine they want to activate and stimulate your brain when you may have already an overactive brain." GUEST DETAILS www.theadhdexpert.com https://www.newmetherapy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/theadhdexpert_/ https://www.facebook.com/SeanMc71Nicholas/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-mcnicholas-33ab79b7/ https://www.newmetherapy.com/adhdtherapy Panorama program - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001m0f9 RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    1 h
  • Helping Neurodivergent Students Thrive – Insights From Eva´s Real-World Experience

    Helping Neurodivergent Students Thrive – Insights From Eva´s Real-World Experience
    Jan 7 2026
    In this special episode, Cliff shares highlights from a powerful conversation his daughter Eva and I had on Helping Teachers Thrive, a brilliant podcast hosted by teacher Tem. They discuss how Eva’s notebook helps her regulate and stay engaged, explore sensory overwhelm, mind breaks, fidget toys, and the small classroom changes that can completely transform a child’s experience. Whether you’re a teacher or a parent, you’ll hear honest insights and practical ideas for supporting neurodivergent children so they can truly thrive in school and at home. EPISODE REVEALS Eva’s notebook isn’t a distraction, it’s a regulation tool that helps her manage emotions and stay present, even though it doesn’t look like “traditional” listening. When schools respond to behaviour with curiosity instead of punishment, children feel safer, more motivated, and more able to learn. A reward-focused, strengths-based system gives children a reason to engage, instead of making them afraid of getting things “wrong.” When a child feels truly understood at school, their confidence grows and spills over into other areas of life including clubs, hobbies, and friendships. What can look like doing nothing at parties or in groups is often a child carefully protecting themselves from sensory and social overwhelm. Short, supported breaks and quiet spaces are essential tools that help neurodivergent children stay regulated enough to learn. Fidget toys, doodling, and notebooks aren’t just “extras;” they’re simple regulation tools that keep hands busy so brains can stay focused. Shutdowns as signs of overwhelm, not bad behaviour. BEST MOMENTS "In my old school, the teachers didn't really recognise us that they just saw as she's not listening so but in my new school, they see as she is listening, just in her own way." "Allow the student time to process." "The problem with the cards, from a teacher's perspective, is I don't want to single that child out." “Let them fidget with (the toy) underneath the table, so it doesn't distract other kids. It just helps them, like, do something with the hands.” “I see kids drawing on their hands all the time. I didn't actually think that is helping them regulate.” EPISODE RESOURCES You can listen to the full episode here - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/supporting-neurodiverse-children-autism-adhd-insights/id1681843058?i=1000738444038 RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    29 min
  • The Shame Trap and the Inner Chimp Paradox

    The Shame Trap and the Inner Chimp Paradox
    Dec 31 2025
    This episode is dedicated to a friend of Cliff´s, Jamie, who first told him about the Inner Chimp Paradox and recommended the book and the techniques he and Eva are exploring, today. Everyone has an inner chimp that self-blame voice, which nags them, shames them, and tells them they are rubbish at everything. It is normal, but people with neurodiverse brains feel criticism more deeply, so if their inner chimp is not kept in check, it can do a lot of damage. Cliff and Eva discuss how to put your inner chimp back in its box. EPISODE REVEALS · The chimp in your head is that negative side that always shames you, says you're useless, makes you feel rubbish – self-blame. · Everybody has an inner chimp. Whether you’re neurotypical or neurodiverse. But ADHD brains feel criticism much more than a neurotypical one does. Letting your inner chimp do as it pleases can lead to ADHD burnout and really dark thoughts. · For neurodiverse people, the impact of the criticism from their inner chimp can cause them to spiral downwards, so it is particularly important to be aware of your inner chimp and learn how to put him back in his box. · Befriend your chimp. Speak to your chimp like you would a friend who's suffering. If you see someone who's being grumpy, what would you say to that person? · Deep breathing helps a lot - Banana for the chimp, oxygen for the human. · Kindness regulate ADHD faster – including self-kindness. BEST MOMENTS "There is a grumpy monkey living in your head ." “Give your brain a hug, not hate mail.” "Anxiety is there for quick, short bursts of energy to keep us safe, keep us active. But in today's world anxiety has turned against us." "We are going to name the chimp. Let it know we are the boss. We're going to tell our chimp to chill. ." "Perfection is a trap – good enough ships." EPISODE RESOURCES Helping Teachers Thrive Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/helping-teachers-thrive/id1681843058 The Chimp Paradox Book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Chimp-Paradox-Acclaimed-Management-Confidence/dp/B006WCJ9OS RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    22 min
  • Jeff Carroll, Eva, and Cliff - Love on the Spectrum Dating Advice Pt 2

    Jeff Carroll, Eva, and Cliff - Love on the Spectrum Dating Advice Pt 2
    Dec 24 2025
    Today, Cliff is joined once again by his daughter Eva and Yo Jeff a dating coach and published author of The Hip Hop Dating Guide that is available on Amazon. Check the description for the link. Last time Jeff was here, he talked to Eva about confidence, friendships and building skills. Today, they're catching up on how she got on with those challenges, the progress she's made. They also discuss how to handle rejection, harsh self-talk, and navigate those messy, early steps into teenage connection. EPISODE REVEALS Having a calm, trusted adult to talk to about confidence, friendships and dating can make things feel more manageable. Showing up and trying, even if you freeze or can’t follow through, is still progress. Courage is built in layers, not in one perfect moment. When someone is warm online but avoids spending time with you in real life, it usually reflects their fears and limits not anything you’ve done wrong. Rejection is painful, but each “no” is also practice. Practice at communicating, understanding yourself better, and choosing healthier connections. When your confidence is knocked consciously replenishing your reserves helps e.g. art, gaming, or creative projects. Friendships and dating are long games. You get good at them by repetition, not perfection. Trying again is how confidence and real connection are built. You might not end up dating every person you like, but you might meet someone wonderful through their friends. It’s worth keeping friendships, and practicing your social skills, even when romance doesn’t work out. BEST MOMENTS "It's really important to celebrate these little wins, because actually, they start mounting up into big wins." "You're going to work through that pain, and then once you get to the other side of that, reignite that friendship." "If you become really good at something, it will impact your self-confidence on everything." EPISODE RESOURCES https://podcasts.apple.com/es/podcast/navigating-friendships-and-dating-on-the-spectrum/id1810681675?i=1000733947794 ABOUT THE GUESTS JEFF CARROLL For one-on-one dating advice and coaching, contact Jeff via - coachyojeff@gmail.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_22asKR-3-Y https://www.facebook.com/CoachYoJeff The Hip Hop Dating Guide - https://a.co/d/gwDdKTH EVA KILMISTER Eva´s YT channel Inspire With Us - https://www.youtube.com/@InspireWithUsYT Eva Kilmister - Art Sketch Book - Blank Pages Sketch Pad - https://amzn.eu/d/i8v4VkA RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    46 min
  • How the Right Nutrition Changes Helps Children with Autism and/or ADHD

    How the Right Nutrition Changes Helps Children with Autism and/or ADHD
    Dec 17 2025
    Today, Cliff is joined by Vicky, founder of the happy, healthy unicorn. Her daughter was diagnosed with severe non-verbal autism at four years old, and what happened next completely changed their lives. Vicky shares how nutrition, gut health and tiny step by step changes helped her daughter move from daily struggle to real progress, and how any parent can start making gentle changes without overwhelming their child. If your child lives on beige foods, craves sugar, or reacts intensely to everyday life. This episode is definitely for you. Let's dive in. EPISODE REVEALS When autistic children don’t get enough of the right nutrients, their bodies prioritise basic survival functions like breathing over non-essential functions like focus, learning, speech, and eye contact. A more nutritious, less processed diet gives children´s brains more fuel to work with. Each tiny new food you add is extra fuel for your child’s brain and gut—and over time, those small changes can really lift how they feel and function. Many autistic and ADHD children gravitate to beige, carby foods because they provide a quick sugar hit, have a neutral smell and feel safe. Sweet or carby foods don’t provide sustainable energy and feed “bad” gut bugs. A vicious cycle that slowly gets worse. Gradual change is the key to diet changes, including going gluten or dairy free. Take the food they do enjoy and gradually tweak things to make it healthier rather than banning your child from eating the foods they love, overnight. Use food chaining to gently widen their diet, for example turning favourite cereal into cereal bars with oats, seeds, and nut butter, then adding those ingredients back into the cereal bowl. Change together as a family, work towards not having unhealthy foods in the home. BEST MOMENTS "By getting her body into good health, we found she could actually have a functional, beautiful life - she could communicate, have friends and not hurt herself." "If your body is not getting those nutrients, then that energy is depleted, and then the energy that your body needs to fulfil non-essential functioning will not be there anymore." "It’s all about meeting your child where they are at. put yourself into your child’s shoes." “The diet is imperative. It's fuel, isn't it? - You're either fuelling or you're poisoning.” EPISODE RESOURCES https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    54 min