46. When Your Child Sees the World - and Their Stuff - Differently, with Steph West

Have you ever looked at your child’s behaviour and thought… I just don’t get it?With April being Autism Awareness Month, it felt like an important time to have this conversation - not just about behaviour, but about understanding how our children experience the world.In this episode, I’m joined by Steph West, a neurodivergent social coach and founder of Starfish Social Club. Steph not only shares her professional insights, but also opens up about her own lived experience, offering a perspective that feels both honest and deeply relatable.Together, we explore what’s really going on beneath behaviours that can feel confusing, frustrating, or even overwhelming - especially for neurodivergent kids.We talk about why some children form strong attachments to “stuff”, and how this often points to something deeper. This conversation is about slowing down, getting curious, and learning to see things from your child’s perspective… even when it looks very different to your own.You’ll LearnWhat a “challenging relationship with stuff” can look like in real life Why some children form deep emotional attachments to objects How anxiety, empathy, and past experiences can shape behaviour Why neurodivergent kids may experience and process the world differently How to support your child without needing to fix or fully understand everything The importance of respecting your child’s experience, even when it feels confusing How open conversations can reduce frustration and build connectionWhy This Episode MattersWhen we don’t understand our child, it’s easy to move into frustration or try to fix things quickly. But often, what our child needs most is to feel seen and understood.This episode offers a gentler way to approach behaviour - one that builds connection and trust, rather than conflict.Small Shift for Big ImpactStart by gently noticing what’s coming into your home.Rather than trying to tackle everything your child already has, begin by slowing down or reducing new items coming in - where you can.This might look like having simple conversations with family members, or just becoming more aware of how often things are being added.Small shifts here can make a big difference over time.Take the Next StepIf this conversation resonated and you’re feeling unsure how to support your child, you’re not alone.You’re invited to book a free 20-minute call with me, where we can talk through what’s going on and find a way forward that feels right for you.Links and ResourcesFind all the info about her podcast, programs, the Starfish Social Club and book 'Social Skills is Canceled' www.socialskillsiscanceled.orgLet’s ConnectWant more support? Follow Nina on Instagram or sign up for tips and updates at mindfulparentinglifestyle.com.au.Have a question or parenting challenge you'd like addressed on the podcast? Send a DM or an email.About the HostsNina is a mindful parenting coach and mum who supports overwhelmed parents to feel calmer, more confident, and more connected with their kids.She helps parents understand the “why” behind behaviour so they can respond with more patience and less stress.Steph West is a neurodivergent social coach and founder of Starfish Social Club, supporting autistic, ADHD, and anxious kids to build confidence and connection. With 20+ years’ experience, she combines professional expertise with lived experience and is the author of Social Skills is Canceled.