Fussy eating takes on a whole new meaning when your child is neurodivergent. Dee McMahon joins Mark to talk about mealtime battles, safe foods and the stress that food can cause for both kids and parents.

Mark and Dee take a deep dive into the soul crushing nightmare of trying to feed their neurodifferent kids something remotely resembling a balanced diet. From the trauma of putting together meal plans and shopping lists, to the sense of nervous trepidation when trying to introduce their kids to new foods and the wounded pride they experience when food they've slaved away at is dismissed without even being tried.

They also take an in-depth look at the more serious side of food issues, when they discuss Dee's personal account of her boy's recent diagnosis of ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder).

If you’re parenting autistic, ADHD or PDA children with food sensitivities, this is a validating, compassionate conversation that cuts through the guilt and gets to the heart of the issue.

ARFID - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avoidant/restrictive_food_intake_disorder

ARFID Community Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/arfid/

mASCot website: https://www.asc-mascot.com/

mASCot Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/221337174595596/

To make a donation to mASCot, so they can continue their amazing work: https://www.givey.com/mascot

Evelina Clinic, London - www.evelinalondon.nhs.uk

Sainsbury's pasta stars - https://www.sainsburys.co.uk/gol-ui/product/sainsburys-stars-500g?

Spruce tips - www.foragerchef.com/spruce-tips/

CONTACT US

If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/ 

Say cheese? Not a chance. Claire Quigley-Ward joins Mark to rant and reflect about why getting a photo of the whole family feels impossible when you’re parenting autistic, ADHD or PDA children.

They discuss the absolute nightmare of trying to take a "normal" photo of our kids - from the challenges of getting them to stay still and not be distracted, to their inability to pose for the camera and the inevitable dread of seeing how they stand out for all the wrong reasons in the annual school photo.

Claire shares how she redefined success in capturing family memories, and Mark reflects on the balance between preserving the moment and surviving it.

Funny, familiar and full of perspective, this PDA parenting podcast episode might make you feel better about every blurry, chaotic photo you’ve ever taken.

All Aboard ADHD podcast - https://www.allaboardadhd.com/podcast

All Aboard ADHD coaching - https://www.allaboardadhd.com/coaching

Apple Live Photo feature - https://support.apple.com/en-gb/104966

Google Best Take feature - https://blog.google/products/photos/how-google-photos-best-take-works/

SenLife App - https://mysenlife.com/

Kate Peers - https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/adhd-children-diagnosis-special-needs-school-funding-a9163761.html

CONTACT US

If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/ 

Raising one neurodivergent child is tough. Raising several, with sibling dynamics in the mix, is a whole different level. In this episode, Mark chats with Jess Cain about sibling relationships, fairness, jealousy, and the surprising ways kids can support one another.

They share anecdotes about the difficulties they face when trying to balance the wildly different needs of all of their children, whilst somehow trying to remain positive and upbeat. From avoiding conflict, the importance of discussing everyone's needs openly, and learning how to prioritise their own needs in the midst of the mayhem.

Jess shares what’s worked in helping her children understand and relate to each other, and Mark opens up about the guilt and gratitude that come with sibling life.

It’s a vital listen for families managing autism, ADHD or PDA alongside the complexity of sibling relationships.

Send Family Instincts Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sendfamilyinstincts/

Send Family Instincts Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SendFamilyInstincts/

Send Family Instincts website - https://sendfamilymagic.mykajabi.com/

Eliza Fricker - https://www.instagram.com/elizafricker_missingthemark/

Charlie Gray (My Neurodivergent Adventure) - https://myneurodivergentadventure.co.uk/

Laura Kerbey (P-AST) - https://p-ast.co.uk/

Brighton Fringe (Neurodiverse Performer Award) - https://www.brightonfringe.org/brighton-fringe-awards-ceremony/

Sara Jane Harvey (Agony Autie) - https://www.instagram.com/agonyautie/

If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/ 

In this autism and PDA parenting podcast episode, Lisa Galley joins Mark to talk about the long, often frustrating process of teaching neurodivergent children the life skills they'll need when they're an adult.

As they cover the diverse range of topics under the umbrella of life skills, Lisa offers some valuable (and occasionally comforting) insights into how her kids have acquired skills, such as getting a job, navigating self care, managing money, learning to drive and, ultimately living away from home.

Lisa shares her gentle approach to building independence at a child’s own pace, and Mark reflects on when to step in versus when to back off.

A reassuring and practical episode for anyone wondering when – or if – their child will ever learn to make toast.

Lisa Galley Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/school_run_mum_autism/

Roblox "Find The Markers" - https://www.roblox.com/games/7896264844/Find-The-Markers-237

Metro Bank - https://www.metrobankonline.co.uk/about-us/kids-zone/

Toren Wolf on Learning to Drive - https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6PndheP02Z/

Danielle Jata-Hall (PDA Parenting) - https://www.instagram.com/pdaparenting/

Sara Jane Harvey (Agony Autie) - https://www.instagram.com/agonyautie/

Lisa Galley's Website: https://www.lisagalley.com/

If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/ 

Board games, video games, a nice, relaxing game of crazy golf - fun for all the family, right? Not if you have neurodivergent kids. In this episode, Mark is joined by Dan Clark to explore how seemingly simple games can quickly spiral into chaos and meltdown when you’re parenting autistic, ADHD or PDA children.

They chat about fairness, turn-taking, emotional regulation and why Monopoly might be the most dangerous game in a neurodivergent household. Dan brings humour and honesty, sharing how video games have been a surprisingly good way to bond with his children.

They also discuss the hugely beneficial role that both video games and Dungeons & Dragons can play in teaching our kids some of the skills they need to develop, in order to navigate a world teeming with neurotypicals.

If you’re looking for a neurodivergent parenting podcast that understands both the joy and unpredictability of family life, this one hits the mark.

LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

MindJam - https://mindjam.org.uk/

Monopoly - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monopoly_(game)

Fast Show Competitive Dad - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2x_DI7tzNQ

Mario Kart - https://store.nintendo.co.uk/en/mario-kart

Beat the Parents - https://amzn.eu/d/3xTCOg8

Cranium - https://amzn.eu/d/cVedUTu

Scrabble - https://amzn.eu/d/f4ngyJW

Dungeon Mayhem - https://amzn.eu/d/3Z0NFr8

Throw Throw Burrito - https://amzn.eu/d/3Z0NFr8

Ocean Bingo - https://www.laurenceking.com/products/ocean-bingo

Exploding Kittens - https://amzn.eu/d/933z2FH

Unstable Unicorns - https://amzn.eu/d/cDnUP80

Risk - https://amzn.eu/d/dc7h30w

The Dice Saloon, Brighton - https://www.dicesaloon.com/

Chase The Ace - https://www.classicgamesandpuzzles.com/Chase-the-Ace.html

Zelda: Breath of the Wild - https://www.ign.com/games/the-legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild

Boy beats Tetris - https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/67902380

Fortnite - https://www.ign.com/games/fortnite

Candy Crush - https://www.ign.com/games/candy-crush-saga

Dungeons & Dragons - https://dnd.wizards.com/

MindJam Adventure Guild - https://mindjam.org.uk/services/adventure-guild/

BAFTA Young Game Designers - https://ygd.bafta.org/

It Takes Two - https://www.ea.com/en-gb/games/it-takes-two/about

Brighton Festival Children's Parade - https://samesky.co.uk/events/childrens-parade-3/

Jump Inc Trampoline Park - https://www.jump-inc.uk/locations/lincoln/

Kellie Bright EHCP Film (BBC One Show) - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001z8w5

CONTACT US

If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

CREDITS

The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/ 

Loud hand dryers, echoey classrooms, ticking clocks - for neurodivergent kids, the world can feel painfully loud. Lauren Palfrey joins Mark to talk about auditory sensitivity - from extreme reactions to loud noises and meltdowns when confronted with contrasting sounds and the fascinating topic of misophonia.

They explore meltdowns triggered by hand dryers, how to handle noisy siblings, and the trauma that can come from being overwhelmed by everyday sounds.

A brilliant episode for anyone parenting autistic or sensory-sensitive children - especially if you’ve ever had to leave a noisy party early, or worn ear defenders in a supermarket.

This episode is best listened to with in a quiet place, with noise cancelling headphones!

LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

Ear defenders - https://amzn.eu/d/fIIDess

Misophonia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misophonia

Cat scarer - https://amzn.eu/d/0U0SYMw

Santas on a bike - https://www.facebook.com/groups/santasonabike/

Loop earplugs - https://amzn.eu/d/iNWzyws

Lauren's noise cancelling headphones - https://groceries.asda.com/product/on-ear-headphones/asda-tech-bluetooth-noise-cancelling-headphones-black/1000370064193

Jay's noise cancelling headphones - https://amzn.eu/d/8hs4ToC

White noise - https://open.spotify.com/album/7KbmHEKwEhKyeZT9xuYVco?si=L5-cYE1HSIiYsaqWs83F-A

Brown noise - https://open.spotify.com/album/0onzJRO1vDBXmXqYy60qsR?si=xgwQCc0OSC-QfID0YOlycw

Pink noise - https://open.spotify.com/album/5w3fCjBpzyGA6tW9mSfQmr?si=bqH-u1ySQzSYkHVPNjXG1w

UK Misophonia Support Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ShutUpWorld/?mibextid=K35XfP

The Assembly - https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m001xyj5/the-assembly

Bloke Barbers, Allestree, Derbyshire (Sara) - https://www.blokebarber.co.uk/#our-prices

Comfa Clothing Fidget-T - https://www.comfa.co.uk/product/fidget-t/

CONTACT US

If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

CREDITS

The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/ 

Why is mealtime such a battleground in neurodivergent households? Mark reunites with Liam Mullone to discuss the daily drama of feeding neurodivergent kids, from food aversions and arguments about cutlery to why they simply don't have the capacity sit still and "eat nicely".

They explore how control, routine and sensory needs all play a part in what (and how) kids eat, and the pressure parents feel to ‘just get them to eat something’. Liam brings sharp humour and brilliant analogies, while Mark reflects on his family’s evolving approach.

Whether you’re dealing with autistic eating preferences, ADHD impulsivity or PDA-related food refusal, this episode will resonate with you.

LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

Torbay General Hospital paediatric ward - https://www.torbayandsouthdevon.nhs.uk/services/child-health/

McDonalds - https://www.mcdonalds.com/gb/en-gb.html

Wetherspoons - https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/

CONTACT US

If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

CREDITS

The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/ 

How do you help a child who experiences emotions like a hurricane? In this powerful episode, Mark is joined by Grace Lockrobin to explore why emotional regulation is so difficult for autistic, PDA and ADHD children, and what parents can do to support them.

They discuss emotional literacy, shutdowns, and the blurry line between PDA-related anxiety and perceived defiance. Mark and Grace also discuss how they deal with their own emotions as parents - from having to keep a firm lid on anger, to the often taboo subject of acknowledging the sadness in their own lives.

This episode offers tools and reassurance to parents struggling to help their children navigate big feelings - especially when those feelings lead to meltdowns or withdrawal.

If you need a neurodivergent parenting podcast that explores feelings with compassion and clarity, start here.

LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

The Apprentice - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0071b63

Emotion cards - https://amzn.eu/d/1uT2Pru

Alexithymia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexithymia

Aquila Magazine - https://www.aquila.co.uk/

"The Explosive Child" book - https://drrossgreene.com/the-explosive-child.htm

Beavers - https://www.scouts.org.uk/beavers/

Villa Real School - https://www.villarealschool.co.uk/

"All The Ways to Be Smart" book - https://amzn.eu/d/4Ssd6qF

BBC Sport Article on Greg Halford - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/68617366

Nick Ransom, Journalist - https://www.nickransom.co.uk/

Sapere - https://www.sapere.org.uk/

CONTACT US

If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

CREDITS

The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

Getting out the front door can feel like a military operation when you’re parenting autistic, ADHD or PDA kids. Comedian Hatty Ashdown joins Mark to talk about how something so basic becomes so complicated.

They swap stories about endless distractions, sensory meltdowns and the sheer unpredictability of transitions.

Hatty shares the small wins and epic fails she’s had trying to leave the house with her kids, and Mark offers tips he’s picked up (usually the hard way).

Funny, chaotic, and reassuringly honest – this episode is as a must for anyone who’s ever felt like they deserve a medal just for getting to Tesco.

LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

Gorilla Gym - https://amzn.eu/d/22yMHaK

Purple Parenting - https://www.purpleparenting.co.uk/about/

Natural History Museum "Dawnosaurs" sessions - https://www.nhm.ac.uk/events/dawnosaurs.html

Hatty Ashdown's website - https://hattyashdown.com/

CONTACT US

If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

CREDITS

The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

Meltdowns over itchy labels, battles over socks, and school uniform trauma. Steph Curtis joins Mark to talk about sensory sensitivity and the daily challenge of getting dressed when you’re parenting an autistic or PDA child who would much rather be naked - even in the most inappropriate moments.

They unpack how seemingly small things - like seams or fabrics - can derail a whole morning, and what strategies have (sort of) worked.

Steph shares how she's learned to balance comfort with practicality, and Mark reflects on the freedom that comes with letting go of expectations.

A neurodivergent parenting podcast episode that will resonate with anyone who’s ever spent 45 minutes negotiating over a pair of trousers.

LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

“PDA in the family” by Steph Curtis - https://amzn.eu/d/1j8KsYi

Stephstwogirls on Instagram -www.instagram.com/stephstwogirls

Steph Curtis’ blog - www.stephstwogirls.co.uk

Bamboo socks - www.sockshop.co.uk/featured/kids-bamboo

Crocs - www.crocs.co.uk/c/kids/footwear

"Neuroshambles giveaway" shoes (size 3) - www.skechers.co.uk/foamies-guzman-steps---aqua-surge/91995L_BLK.html

Skechers - www.skechers.co.uk/kids

ASDA sensory school uniform -  https://direct.asda.com/george/collections/easy-on-easy-wear-school/D28M110G1C3,default,sc.html

Marks & Spencers sensory clothing - www.marksandspencer.com/l/kids/easy-dressing

Sensory Smart Clothing - www.sensorysmart.co.uk

Fidget-T - www.comfa.co.uk/product/fidget-t

CONTACT US

If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

CREDITS

The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/