44. Supporting Neurodivergent Kids with Friendships and Boundaries with Bec Sparrow

Friendships can be tricky, especially when navigating neurodivergence. As parents, we often wonder how to help our kids make meaningful connections, set healthy boundaries, and deal with social challenges.That’s why I brought in the one and only Bec Sparrow A.K.A. Australia’s Friendship Whisperer. With two decades of experience as a writer, speaker, and advocate for connection, Bec has helped countless parents, teens, and schools understand what it takes to create meaningful, lasting friendships. Her passion for belonging shines through in this episode, where she shares insights drawn from both her professional expertise and her lived experiences.We explore:Friendship as a skill: Why friendships aren’t instinctive for everyone and how to teach kids (and yourself) to build meaningful connections step by step.Setting boundaries with confidence: Practical tips for helping kids say no and communicate their needs without guilt.Spotting red flags in friendships: Bec uses Dr Brené Brown’s BRAVING framework to break down the key elements of trust and healthy relationships.Handling conflict with kindness: How to navigate disagreements without creating unnecessary drama.Expanding social circles: Why building friendships outside of school is essential for resilience and avoiding negative peer pressure.More resources can be found here: https://adhdmums.com.au/resources/ Related Episode:S02E35: ADHD and Autistic Friendships with Prof Tony Attwood and Dr Michelle GarnettResources Mentioned:Follow Bec on Instagram: @rebeccasparrow72Find more resources, articles, and info on Bec’s online programs: https://rebeccasparrow.com/ Get Bec Sparrow’s latest book: Out of the BoxDr Brené Brown’s Podcast about the BRAVING acronym: The Anatomy of TrustListen to Bec on the Parental as Anything TEENS podcastBOOK 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.LEAVE 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 Mums 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/resourcesFind more answers, resources and guides on my website at https://adhdmums.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.