26. The Dual Spectrum: Navigating Giftedness and Neurodivergence with Alison Balson

In this episode, Jane chats with Alison Balson, a Family Dynamics & Neurodiversity Strategist, who offers her expert advice on navigating life in a neurodivergent family. With insights drawn from her experience as a former teacher, childcare centre owner, and mum of four neurodivergent children, Alison shares practical strategies for fostering a thriving, inclusive family environment.Key Topics Covered:What it means to have "twice exceptional" children who are both gifted and face challenges like ADHD, autism, dyslexia, or dysgraphia - and how to support their unique needs.Alison's approach to creating a supportive family environment that respects and nurtures each member's neurodivergent traits.Practical strategies for balancing the dual spectrum of giftedness and challenges, communicating with schools, understanding educational needs, and finding the right support.Tips for maintaining routines, setting boundaries, and using external accountability to manage daily life and reduce stress in neurodivergent families.Insights on navigating multiple therapies and support services through the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) and advocating for what truly benefits your family.The importance of parental growth and self-care to maintain balance and well-being while raising neurodivergent children, and how small shifts in mindset can make a big impact.Connect with Alison:Follow Alison on Instagram @theincrementalshift or visit her website at theincrementalshift.comBOOK IN WITH JANE'S RECOMMENDED THERAPISTSIf you're looking to connect with a parenting specialist or psychologist for expert advice on parenting, please check out www.adhdmums.com.au/services. Your journey to more confident and supported parenting starts here!CONNECT WITH ME...If you’ve got a question or want to connect with other ADHD mums, we’ve got a whole community on our Facebook group. Click here to join and post your question. Don’t worry if it’s been asked before! I love to answer everyone in a group format.FOLLOW FOR MORE...I post more content, insights and help on my social media accounts. Follow along for more ADHD mum content.- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhd_mums- Facebook: https://facebook.com/100091850469503/- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhdmumsaus- YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCB0uYIHpFKFo6AdhQQaBr1wLEAVE ME A REVIEWYour review means the world to me! Your thoughts really help others discover my content that I genuinely (and passionately) hope could make a difference in their lives. Your support creates a ripple effect of spreading my show around and hopefully reaching the right people (especially Mum’s who may be at their wit’s end). WANT TO COLLABORATE?If you’re enquiring about a collaboration or speaking engagement – please email [email protected]. EXTRA RESOURCES: Still not sure if you have ADHD or are Autistic? Get access to my recommended self tests as a guide to whether you should go for an assessment or not. https://adhdmums.com.au/self-tests/Can I access the NDIS? Use this link to get a free guide to the NDIS to start you on your journey. Find more answers, resources and guides on my website at https://adhdmums.com.au/#adhd #adhdparenting #adhdmums #adhdkids #adhdteen #adhdawareness #adhddiagnosis #neurodiversity Mentioned in this episode:Body & Mind OnlineA dedicated team of neuro-affirming psychologists, occupational therapists, counsellors, and speech pathologists that you can trust and who have been specifically trained to support your family's journey with compassion, expertise, and individualised care.Body & Mind OnlineSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.