In this episode of the Effective Ministry Podcast, host Meaghan Gates is joined by Di Lucas from Youthworks Ministry Support Team and Luke Graham, a children's minister in Canterbury. The discussion focuses on the significant challenges and rewarding experiences of working with neurodiverse children in church settings. Luke shares insights about creating inclusive spaces through initiatives like the Accessible Kids and Youth Ministry Network. Di offers personal perspectives and practical strategies from her own experiences both as a mother to children with ADHD and as an individual with an ADHD diagnosis. The podcast emphasizes the importance of understanding, empathy, and practical support for neurodiverse children and their families, stressing that no expertise is required to start making positive changes.

00:00 Introduction to Church and Community

00:47 Meet the Hosts and Guests

02:39 Challenges of Working with Neurodiverse Kids

04:46 Biblical Perspective on ADHD

12:21 Practical Strategies for Supporting Neurodiverse Kids

32:25 The Power of Praise for Kids

33:31 Inclusion of Neurodiverse Kids in Church

36:54 Personal Experiences with ADHD in Ministry

39:33 Strategies for Supporting Kids with ADHD

50:11 Supporting Parents of Kids with ADHD

57:00 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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Bec Baines Accessibility Ministry Advisor https://www.youthworks.net/blog/bec-baines

Accessible Kids and Youth Ministry page https://www.facebook.com/groups/775236337121469