Whether it’s the start of a new school year or a mid-term reset, managing routines and transitions as an ADHD family can feel overwhelming. From chaotic mornings to emotional regulation challenges, this episode is packed with practical strategies to support your family anytime you're looking to create a smoother school experience.

This episode is here to help you:

• Reflect on what’s working and what needs adjusting.
• Simplify morning chaos with micro-routines and visual aids.
• Manage sensory sensitivities in uniforms, supplies, and environments.
• Build resilience and emotional strategies for kids and parents.

Resources mentioned:

• Episode - How ADHD medication revealed my autistic traits. Listen here on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
• Episode - Raising Strong Children: How to Support Without Always Solving Their Problems. Listen here on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Surviving School Pick-Up: A Guide for ADHD Mums: 75-page guide full of scripts, strategies, and practical tips to navigate school pick-up as a neurodivergent mum.

The Essential De-Stress Planner for Hyperactive Mums linked here.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY:

Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!

FOLLOW FOR MORE:

Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube

LEAVE A REVIEW:

Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.

COLLABS:

For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].

MORE RESOURCES:

Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

Being diagnosed with ADHD can bring a mix of emotions - grief, relief, confusion, and a whole lot of questions. It’s a lot to process, and you’re doing the best you can.

In this episode:

• Grief, overwhelm, and imposter syndrome.
• Practical strategies designed for ADHD brains.
• Unmasking, managing the mental load, and finding what works for you.
• Most importantly, you’re not failing - you’re learning how to thrive.

Resources Mentioned:

• ADHD Planner & Personal Values Workbook: ADHD-friendly calendar
• A Guide to ADHD Medication
• The Gottman Institute

This episode is here to share experiences, insights, and strategies, but it’s not a substitute for medical advice. If you have questions about your ADHD diagnosis or treatment, chat with a trusted healthcare professional. Take what works for you and leave the rest - this is your journey!

JOIN THE COMMUNITY:

Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!

FOLLOW FOR MORE:

Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube

LEAVE A REVIEW:

Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.

COLLABS:

For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].

MORE RESOURCES:

Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

ADHD diagnosis as a mum Emotional impact of ADHD diagnosis Strategies for ADHD management Grieving after ADHD diagnosis Rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD) ADHD and emotional regulation Masking and burnout in ADHD mums ADHD friendly tools and systems ADHD and relationships Neurodivergent parenting challenges ADHD strengths and superpowers Tips for ADHD mums ADHD friendly calendar tools Practical advice for ADHD mums

Are you unsure about how to talk to your child about ADHD? Feeling overwhelmed, second-guessing yourself, or worried you’ll get it “wrong”? Whether you’re just starting this conversation or fine-tuning your approach, this episode has the answers you’ve been searching for (plus the validation you didn’t know you needed).

Download the free guide: “Explaining ADHD to Your Child: The Why and How” here

In this episode: 

• Age-appropriate explanations that just click.
• How to help your child own their strengths and explain ADHD confidently to others.
• Avoiding the “too positive” or “too negative” trap - get the balance right.
• Protecting your child from unsolicited advice and navigating tricky family dynamics like a pro.
• Why connection matters more than perfection - this is about building trust and self-acceptance.

This isn’t just a “what to say” guide. It’s about laying the foundation for your child to see themselves as capable, worthy, and celebrated.

Go deeper with my A Mum’s Guide to Supporting Your Child’s Diagnosis and Helping Others ‘Get It’: HERE

Listen to Part 1 Here: S02E53: Explaining ADHD to Your Child: Why It Matters (Part 1) Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify

• A Mum’s Guide to Supporting Your Child’s Diagnosis and Helping Others ‘Get It’: Packed with practical tips, relatable stories, and strategies to make these conversations easier.
• Explore tools, books, and resources to support your child with ADHD HERE.
• S01E41: Camouflaging ADHD + Autistic Traits in Girls with Millie Carr
• Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify
• S01E65: From Skeptic to Advocate: Medication for Children
• Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify
• S02E50: Stop People-Pleasing: The ADHD Mum’s Guide to Boundaries, Balance, and Breaking Free
• Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify
• S02E51: How to Handle Family Criticism About ADHD: Boundaries and Keeping Your Sanity
• Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify
• S02E8: How to Tell Your Child About Their Diagnosis: Essential Do's and Don'ts with Millie Carr
• Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify

If this episode resonated with you, share it with another mum who might need to hear it. Join our ADHD Mums Facebook community for support, or follow us on Instagram for more relatable content and updates. You’re not alone in this journey.

FOLLOW FOR MORE:

Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube

LEAVE A REVIEW:

Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.

COLLABS:

For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].

MORE RESOURCES:

Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

How to talk to your child about ADHD Explaining ADHD to kids in simple terms Building confidence and self-awareness in neurodivergent children Empowering children with ADHD through honest conversations Strategies for discussing ADHD with your child ADHD and self-advocacy for kids Teaching kids about executive function and neurodiversity Supporting neurodivergent children in school and at home Managing family criticism about ADHD ADHD parenting tips and resources Practical advice for parents of children with ADHD How to normalise neurodiversity in everyday conversations

As mums, we want to protect our kids, but when it comes to ADHD or other neurodivergent diagnoses, silence can sometimes send the wrong message. This episode dives into the why behind having this big conversation with your child - why it’s important, how it can shape their self-confidence, and what happens when they don’t have the right information.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about when or how to talk about ADHD with your child - or if you’re worried about labelling them - this episode is for you.

• Why some parents hesitate to disclose a diagnosis and how to overcome this fear.
• The risks of leaving your child in the dark and how they might create their own (often harsh) narrative.
• How empowering your child with knowledge can build their confidence and self-compassion.
• The emotional journey of processing a diagnosis as a parent and finding the right time to talk.

• Episode: How to Tell Your Child About Their Diagnosis - Spotify / Apple
• Episode: Re-release Camouflaging ADHD + Autistic Traits in Girls - Spotify / Apple
• Episode: Stop People-Pleasing - Spotify / Apple
• Recommended Books: Empower your child with relatable stories about ADHD and Autism.
• A Mum’s Guide to Supporting Your Child’s Diagnosis and Helping Others ‘Get It’: HERE

If this episode resonated with you, share it with another mum who might need to hear it. Join our ADHD Mums Facebook community for support, or follow us on Instagram for more relatable content and updates. You’re not alone in this journey.

FOLLOW FOR MORE:

Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube

LEAVE A REVIEW:

Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.

COLLABS:

For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].

MORE RESOURCES:

Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

Explaining ADHD to children Talking to kids about ADHD diagnosis ADHD parenting strategies Supporting neurodivergent children Empowering children with ADHD Sensory tools for ADHD Overcoming parenting fears about ADHD Processing emotions as an ADHD parent Timing conversations about ADHD diagnosis ADHD and self-awareness for kids ADHD diagnosis disclosure tips ADHD advocacy for parents ADHD-friendly parenting tips Building confidence in kids with ADHD Helping kids understand ADHD

Life in a neurodivergent household is full of noise, touch, and constant interruptions. Add the guilt of “not doing enough,” and it’s no wonder so many of us feel burnt out. This episode gives you the tools and validation you need to take care of yourself - because when you’re regulated, everything else gets a little easier.

In this episode, I'm joined by Occupational Therapist and fellow ADHD Mum Rebecca Torpey to unpack what sensory overwhelm really is and how to find relief that works for you.

• S02E37: ADHD, Autism, or Both? Kara’s Story of Burnout and Sensory Overload
• Listen on Apple Podcasts | Listen on Spotify
• ADHD and Autistic Traits in Mums with Dr. Jacinta Thomson [re-release]
• Listen on Apple Podcasts | Listen on Spotify

• Want to know more about Sensory Overload? Visit Rebecca’s website: https://www.sensorysmartkidsot.com/
• Read the blog version of this episode: Here
• Recommended sensory tools: Explore weighted blankets, sensory pods, and other tools to support sensory needs at home.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY:

Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!

FOLLOW FOR MORE:

Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube

LEAVE A REVIEW:

Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.

COLLABS:

For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].

MORE RESOURCES:

Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

Key Topics Covered in This Episode:

ADHD mums, sensory overload, neurodivergent parenting, sensory processing, sensory triggers, sensory diets, managing sensory overwhelm, balancing sensory needs, noise sensitivity, "touched out" exhaustion, co-regulation, ADHD and sensory overload, autism and sensory overload, practical sensory tools, headphones for sensory relief, weighted blankets, routines for regulation, ADHD medication and sensory sensitivity, family transitions, occupational therapy tips, parental guilt, calming household chaos, sensory regulation strategies, supporting neurodivergent kids.

Feeling like traditional planners just don’t work for your ADHD brain? You’re not alone. This episode dives into why typical systems fail us and how value-aligned planning can help you ditch the guilt, reduce overwhelm, and focus on what really matters.

👉 Grab the ADHD Mums Planner – designed to work with your brain, not against it. It’s packed with tools for task management, guilt-free resets, and value-based planning. Get it here.

Timestamps (approx.)

• 1 min: Why traditional planners don’t work for ADHD mums.
• 3 mins: The moment I realised my values weren’t guiding my decisions.
• 7 mins: How to simplify planning and focus on what truly matters.
• 12 mins: The science behind value-aligned living – and how it boosts happiness.
• 18 mins: Easy strategies for building a flexible, ADHD-friendly planning system.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY:

Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!

FOLLOW FOR MORE:

Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube

LEAVE A REVIEW:

Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.

COLLABS:

For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].

MORE RESOURCES:

Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

Key topics covered in this ep: ADHD mums Value based planning Overcoming overwhelm ADHD friendly planners Flexible planning strategies Prioritising what matters Guilt free resets ADHD mental load Task management for neurodivergent mums Reducing burnout Aligning actions with values Building an ADHD-friendly life Practical planning tips Neurodivergent productivity hacks Balancing family and priorities Simplifying daily routines

Do you ever catch yourself wondering, “Is this just the chaos of mum life, or could it be something more?” 

Amanda (ADHD mum) and Sarah (neurotypical mum) share what life really looks like behind the scenes - messy mornings, endless to-dos, and those moments where it all feels too much.

It’s an honest, funny, and eye-opening conversation about the differences and similarities between ADHD and neurotypical motherhood experiences.

In this episode (approx. timestamps):

• 2 mins: Amanda and Sarah’s 24-year friendship
• 6 mins: The reality of chaotic mornings: time blindness, transitions, and stress
• 16 mins: Meal prepping, visual calendars, and why “just make a list” doesn’t always work
• 21 mins: Parenting with neurodivergence: the added layers 
• 27 mins: Work, life admin, and navigating the mental load
• 36 mins: Medicated vs unmedicated life
• 39 mins: How neurotypical strategies compare with ADHD approaches
• 42 mins: The key differences between mum life stress and ADHD challenges

Resources:

• Sarah's organisation business: www.zenspacesbysarah.com.au
• Free ADHD and Autism Self-Assessment Tool recommendations here
• ADHD Pre-Diagnosis Workbook: Clear the confusion and discover your type 
• ADHD Planner + Values Workbook: A system built for hyperactive brains

What to Listen to Next: 

• S02E22: Is it ADHD or Motherhood? Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• S02E29: 6 Practical Tips for ADHD Mums to Reduce Stress and Create a Calmer Home - Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• S02E37: ADHD, Autism or Both? Kara’s Story of Burnout and Sensory Overload - Spotify or Apple Podcasts

JOIN THE COMMUNITY:

Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!

FOLLOW FOR MORE:

Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube

LEAVE A REVIEW:

Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.

COLLABS:

For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].

MORE RESOURCES:

Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

Key topics covered in this episode: ADHD and motherhood, neurodivergent mum life, is it ADHD or mum life, ADHD vs neurotypical parenting, managing morning routines with ADHD, parenting challenges with ADHD, navigating the mental load, time blindness in mums, meal planning tips for ADHD, effective parenting systems, medicated vs unmedicated ADHD experiences, balancing work and life admin, impulsivity in ADHD, strategies for parenting neurodivergent children, visual tools for ADHD mums, and creating structure in chaotic mum life.

If you’ve ever wondered why your daughter seems to struggle quietly while excelling on the surface - or if you’re reflecting on your own experiences as a neurodivergent mum - this episode is for you.

I’m joined by Millie Carr, a passionate educator, author, and mum of three, to unpack the subtle and often misunderstood ways ADHD and autism show up in girls. With lived experience as part of a neurodivergent family, Millie shares her insights on recognising masking, perfectionism, and other traits that can make it harder for girls to be diagnosed or supported.

This episode is here to give you practical tips and validation - whether you’re advocating for your child, yourself, or both.

In this episode:

• The unique ways ADHD and autism present in girls and why they’re often overlooked.
• How masking and perfectionism can make neurodivergent traits harder to recognise.
• Practical tips for navigating the diagnosis process and advocating effectively.
• Reframing ADHD and autism as strengths and building confidence in neurodivergent kids.

Important Resources:

• Learn more about Millie’s work at https://milliecarrbooks.com  
• Explore my self-assessment tool for ADHD and Autism
• When and where to seek a diagnosis for your child - eGuide here
• My free resources are here
• My Workbooks and eGuides are here

Other Episodes with Mille Carr:

• Neurodiverse Classrooms: Spotify or Apple Podcasts
• How to Tell Your Child About Their Diagnosis: Essential Do's and Don'ts: Spotify or Apple Podcasts

JOIN THE COMMUNITY:

Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!

FOLLOW FOR MORE:

Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube

LEAVE A REVIEW:

Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.

COLLABS:

For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at [email protected].

MORE RESOURCES:

Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

Key Topics covered in this ep: ADHD masking in girls Autism masking in children Neurodivergent parenting tips Recognising ADHD in girls Late ADHD diagnosis in adults Signs of autism in girls ADHD and autism in Australia Supporting neurodivergent children Emotional regulation for kids Early intervention for ADHD ADHD diagnosis process Australia Teacher resources for ADHD ADHD in high-masking individuals Understanding inattentive ADHD Perfectionism in neurodivergent children

Wondering if there’s more to your neurodivergence beyond ADHD? In this episode, Clinical Psychologist Dr. Jacinta Thomson breaks down the overlap between ADHD and autistic traits in mums. Learn how masking works, why it’s so hard to tease them apart, and how to explore your identity with curiosity and self-compassion. This is the episode for you if you’ve ever thought, “Could I be autistic too?”

This episode was originally released on 26th February 2024, and it’s one of our most popular episodes.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand how ADHD and autistic traits can overlap and mask each other.
• Explore the unique challenges of high-masking neurodivergent mums.
• Discover the subtle signs of autism that aren’t on Google.
• Learn why self-identification is valid and when a formal diagnosis might help.
• Get Jacinta’s neuro-affirming insights on embracing your identity.

• Learn more about Jacinta’s work at www.timetountangle.com.au.
• Read the blog version of this episode.

Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only. Please consult a qualified health professional for personalised advice.

BOOK IN WITH JANE'S RECOMMENDED THERAPISTS

If 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 REVIEW

Your 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/resources

Find more answers, resources and guides on my website at https://adhdmums.com.au/

Key Topics covered in this ep: ADHD in women Autism in women Overlapping traits of ADHD and autism High-masking mums Neurodivergent parenting AUDHD meaning ADHD traits in adults Autism traits in adults Sensory sensitivities in neurodivergence ADHD vs. autism Neurodiversity in mothers ADHD and autism overlap Routine and sensory challenges Supporting neurodivergent mums

Worried about family comments on your child’s ADHD? The judgmental questions, the unsolicited advice, the pressure to explain your choices - it’s a lot.

Get the guide: A Mum’s Guide to Support and Helping Others Get It is available on the website, filled with practical tips for advocating for your child while protecting your peace.

This episode is here to help you:

• Respond calmly, even when caught off guard.
• Set boundaries that stick (without second-guessing yourself).
• Protect your peace and your child’s confidence.

Whether you’re bracing for the next family gathering or still processing the last one, you’ll find practical strategies to handle these moments with clarity and confidence.

You’ll learn how to tell the difference between genuine curiosity and someone just stirring the pot - and where to draw the line.

Hit play for tools you can use right now to feel more prepared, more empowered, and less alone.

Related Episode:

• S02E50: Stop People-Pleasing: The ADHD Mum’s Guide to Boundaries, Balance, and Breaking Free

What to Listen Next:

• S02E46: ‘Tis the Season to Overspend: ADHD Mum vs. Impulse Shopping
• S02E48: Running Out of Time: Why ADHD Mums Feel Overwhelmed at Christmas (and How to Fix It!)
• S02E49: Christmas Chaos: Hacks for Surviving Family Drama, Sensory Overload, and Picky Eaters!

BOOK IN WITH JANE'S RECOMMENDED THERAPISTS

If 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 REVIEW

Your 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/resources

Find more answers, resources and guides on my website at https://adhdmums.com.au/

Key Topics covered in this ep: ADHD mums Christmas family dynamics Handling family criticism People-pleasing habits Setting boundaries during Christmas ADHD medication stigma Managing holiday overwhelm Emotional regulation tools Neurodivergent parenting Saying no without guilt Grounding techniques for stress ADHD and family relationships Prioritising mental health at Christmas Teaching kids healthy boundaries Avoiding holiday burnout Surviving Christmas stress