27/08/2025
In this very special episode of Neurodivergent Mates, I’m joined by my mum, Marilyn Wheeler, to have an open and honest conversation about what it was like raising neurodivergent children.
From the early challenges of navigating school systems and limited support, to the strategies that helped (and the ones that didn’t), Marilyn shares her experiences across different stages of parenting — from childhood to teenage years and into adulthood. Together, we explore what has changed, what still needs to change, and the advice she would give to parents who are just beginning their journey.
This episode is a heartfelt reflection on resilience, family, and the power of understanding.
Podcast Questions
To kick things off, can you share a little bit about yourself and our family?
Thinking back to when I was little, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a parent of neurodivergent children?
When you first realised I was neurodivergent, what kind of support — or maybe lack of support — did you get from schools, professionals, or even the community?
Over the years, what approaches or strategies did you find the most helpful in supporting me and [siblings, if relevant] as we grew up?
Were there things you tried along the way that didn’t really work, or things you wish you’d done differently?
How did things shift as I grew into a teenager and then an adult? What new challenges or opportunities came up during those stages?
From your perspective, what do you think still needs to change in schools, communities, or workplaces to better support both neurodivergent kids and their families?
And finally, what advice would you give to parents today who are just beginning their journey raising a neurodivergent child?
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