Parenting Autism and ADHD

In this episode, Cliff and Eva sit down together to talk about Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). Whether you’re a parent, educator, or young person navigating life, this episode offers valuable insights and practical understanding of RSD’s daily effects.

Eva and Cliff share personal stories to help you explore the impact RSD has in social settings, at school, and when forming new relationships, including finding a boyfriend or girlfriend. They also address the most common RSD myths.

EPISODE REVEALS

·  What Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) actually is.

·  Why RSD is not simply about being “too sensitive” and how RSD differs from the relatively fleeting feelings of rejection most people experience.

·  People with RSD are not choosing to melt-down, it happens because their brains register rejection as a threat.

·  Why even small rejection cues, e.g. A look or silence can trigger spiralling into emotional overwhelm.

·  How to put a light spin on things if someone starts bullying you, even if you have RSD. Eva shares how she does this.

·  Recognising that you have RSD is the first step to understanding and learning how to manage things to minimise the impact it has on your life.

·  Being able to talk about your day is important. Tech-free family dinners are a great way to make sure your child or partner can do this.

BEST MOMENTS

"RSD stands for, rejection, sensitive, dysphoria, and some real-life examples of that would be over reactions, over thinking and emotional spirals."

"You're not overreacting on purpose .…People with RSD aren't choosing to melt down. The brain registers the rejection as a threat."

"One of the other misconceptions was being dramatic for attention. People with RSD often feel ashamed after episodes. It's not performative, it's painful, often followed by self-criticism."

“The other misconception is - everyone feels rejected sometimes, this is no different. But the reality is, while rejection does hurt everyone, RSD causes a disproportionately intense and lasting reaction. Like a burn instead of a bruise.”

RESOURCES

👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff

“What To do when your child shuts down” book out now - https://amzn.eu/d/iOMsOrF

New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Discord because Meta is shutting down fb messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

Eva's YT channel InspireWithUsYT  - https://www.youtube.com/@InspireWithUsYT

Eva's Art Sketch Book - https://amzn.eu/d/iClQiFq

Late Bloomers episode about RSD - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4IzuuE1MwWCDZcaButNUEC

CONTACT ME

Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister

X - @KilmisterCliff

HOST BIO

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school, refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!

Cliff speaks with Harry Houghton, a digital forensics examiner, as he shares how online predators work and what parents can do about it. They talk about the reality of digital investigations, including why that school uniform photo might be more dangerous than you think and how groomers use apps like Roblox to target kids. Harry explains when to call 999 for online threats, introduces the CEOP website that most parents don't know about and shares why talking openly with your children works better than blocking everything. Whether your child is neurotypical or neurodivergent, this conversation covers practical steps for staying safe online.

Episode Reveals

• How digital forensics work is evolving rapidly. Police now examine terabytes of data, extracting messages, location data, and web history to build criminal cases and protect victims.

• Why open communication beats restrictions. Honest conversations about online dangers are more effective than simply blocking access or imposing limits without explanation.

• CEOP is a free National Crime Agency resource that provides age appropriate education materials for all key stages and includes vital online reporting functions for suspected abuse.

• Many social media posts reveal dangerous information, creating digital footprints that predators can exploit.

• Why Parents shouldn't hesitate to call emergency services if they suspect grooming or inappropriate contact with their child, as immediate action prevents evidence destruction.

• Why Neurodivergent children face additional risks. Children with autism may struggle to recognise social cues or manipulative behaviour, making them potentially more vulnerable to predators who exploit misplaced trust.

• The future brings new dangers, including AI-generated imagery and encrypted messaging apps, making prevention and education more crucial than ever before.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you are sharing a photo of your child in their school uniform to Facebook or to Instagram or to TikTok... now the whole internet knows what school Johnny goes to."

"It is an emergency, so it do, you can ring 999 for that, that is a valid thing to do. You’re not gonna get penalised for saying, I think someone is abusing my child over the internet."

"Communication is the key, the best thing, and it really did make a difference."

RESOURCES

linkedin.com/in/harry-hought0n

https://www.ceopeducation.co.uk/

👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff

“What To do when your child shuts down” book out now - https://amzn.eu/d/iOMsOrF

New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Discord because Meta is shutting down fb messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

CONTACT ME

· Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08

· Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠

X - @KilmisterCliff

HOST BIO

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!

Cliff is joined again by his daughter Eva. They discuss teaching methods in school, including why phonics doesn't work for her and how she actually learns to spell. She explains what makes classrooms work better for her needs and why different methods are effective for neurodivergent students. Eva also talks about her imaginary friends who give her advice, support and can help regulate her.

Episode Reveals

• Why phonics methods can be counterproductive for neurodivergent learners. Teaching sounds versus spelling creates confusion when the two don't match, leading to frustration rather than learning.

• Memory techniques using phrases and repetition work better than standard methods for many students.

• Why stimming objects and comfort items can enhance focus and learning for many neurodiverse pupils.

• How imaginary friends and spirit guides can provide emotional regulation.

• Why classroom management through humour can be more effective than harsh discipline.

• How sensory processing needs impact learning environments.

• How teacher recognition builds confidence and motivation.

• Why flexible teaching approaches are needed to accommodate different learning styles.

BEST MOMENTS

"I do not like phonics at all... it's frustrating because it's confusing because it teaches how to say the words... but I spell it how it sounds."

"You can stand back and do nothing and watch him have a go at them, or you can step in and try to calm him down."

"I was really chuffed that the teacher liked what I was drawing."

"The methods that they use in the curriculum don't suit your learning style."

"That's very nice. So they're giving you options as well. So it's not like they're controlling you at all. They're helping you regulate your thoughts."

RESOURCES

👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff

“What To do when your child shuts down” book out now - https://amzn.eu/d/iOMsOrF

New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Discord because Meta is shutting down fb messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

CONTACT ME

· Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08

· Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠

X - @KilmisterCliff

HOST BIO

Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠https://amzn.eu/d/9yYaIM6⁠Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest, sharing her experiences and strategies that work for her. And joining him in this journey is his wife, Annie, who will also contribute to the podcast with her unique perspective and support. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Cliff is joined in this episode by his mum to explore three generations of neurodiversity within their family. From his grandmother's unrecognised traits to his daughter Eva's current struggles with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder, they discuss the hidden patterns that run through families. His mother shares stories about Eva's masking behaviours, the park incident that changed everything and even how food colourings can affect behaviour.

Episode Reveals

• How masking is very real and can be deceptive. Children with autism often appear perfectly behaved in public settings, making it difficult for others to recognise their struggles and leading to delayed diagnosis and support.

• Artificial food dyes have been linked to hyperactivity, aggression, depression and meltdowns in sensitive children, making dietary monitoring important for behaviour management.

• Transitions for neurodiverse children require advance warning. Autistic children particularly need preparation time before changes, using strategies like "five more minutes" warnings rather than abrupt transitions that can trigger meltdowns.

• Meal times can create safe spaces for children to share problems and build trust with parents, which is essential for supporting children.

• Tools like doodle pads, fidget items, and understanding of sensory overload are essential for learning, not distractions to be eliminated.

• Parents don't need school referrals to seek autism assessments; going directly to your GP can prevent years of delays in getting proper support.

• Private psychological assessments can provide the detailed evidence needed to win EHCP appeals when local authority assessments fall short.

• Neurodiversity is hereditary and often unrecognised. Traits frequently pass through generations, with older family members only recognising their own autism or ADHD after grandchildren are diagnosed.

BEST MOMENTS

"It was like she wasn't there. It was like she wasn't in control."

"I used to like the quiet. I still like it. I don't, I struggle with situations where there's lots of noise."

"You are needed. We are all needed. "

"It's not labelling, it's identifying that we need some different strategies to support her."

RESOURCES

👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff

“What To do when your child shuts down” book out now - https://amzn.eu/d/iOMsOrF

New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Discord because Meta is shutting down fb messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

CONTACT ME

· Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08

· Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠

X - @KilmisterCliff

HOST BIO

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest, sharing her experiences and strategies that work for her. And joining him in this journey is his wife, Annie, who will also contribute to the podcast with her unique perspective and support. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Cliff and Eva talk about memory recall and why it’s common for those with autism and neurodivergence to struggle with memory. Eva shares how memory recall impacts her at school and they discuss the ways they have found to manage it, including with sensory input and making tasks more engaging.  

Episode Reveals

BEST MOMENTS 

“It's the focus as well, isn't it? So with your ADHD, your memory, your mind might be kind of all over the place.”

“Do you think when you're less stressed and the class is quieter, your memory works better?”

 “Don’t get me started on mind maps. I have a burning passion for hating them. I think I've always hated mind maps ever since primary. They're just so messy and they go everywhere”

“I think the important thing with mind maps and other things, all the things, all the tools and memory aids that you can get, it's important to try them, isn't it? Because otherwise you won't know.”

“I definitely like routine. Because with a routine you know what's gonna happen."

“Being in the moment and really that can help with your focus and your ADHD sort of conditions.”

RESOURCES

Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/9yYaIM6⁠⁠

👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff

New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Discord because Meta is shutting down fb messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

CONTACT ME

·  Instagram:

·  Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠

X - @KilmisterCliff

HOST BIO

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest,

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Join Cliff and Chris in the second part of their conversation about how to keep kids safe online. They discuss ways to ensure your child’s safety, including tools you can learn to use and how to foster an open and honest dialogue with your children about online safety.

Episode Reveals

• The conversations you need to be having with your child to help protect them online

• How to engage with the online activities your child is participating in online

• How to create an environment where your child doesn’t feel judged and can be open and honest with you

• Apps you can use to help keep your child safe

• How to spot online predators

• How to help your child recognise manipulation online

• How to restrict apps and websites

• The conversations you need to be having with your child to help protect them online

BEST MOMENTS

“ Come from a place where you're wanting them to teach you.”

“ You're talking to the two of them, like an adult, you're actually talking to them like a friend versus, ‘Hey, I'm putting you on the hot coals here’.”

“ They're not gonna be in ‘Predator,’ you know an app that says we are predators.com and it blinks on their phone. I mean, that's not where they're gonna be.”

“ You can actually stop apps being downloaded.”

“ Look, if you know it's wrong, tell somebody about it. 'cause it ain't, it's not normal for, uh, people online to be sending you stuff.”

RESOURCES

Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠https://amzn.eu/d/hIXiGIA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adversity-institute/

Website: https://www.adversity.institute/

👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff

New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Discord because Meta is shutting down fb messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

CONTACT ME

·  Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08

·  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/

X - @KilmisterCliff

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest, sharing her experiences and strategies that work for her. And joining him in this journey is his wife, Annie, who will also contribute to the podcast with her unique perspective and support. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!

CONTACT ME

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive

Cliff is joined by Chris Duff in this episode. In part 1 of their conversation, Chris shares his incredible knowledge about online predators, grooming tactics and the dangers of sextortion. He gives his own experiences and clear examples of how these things happen in reality sharing why it’s so important to stay vigilant and proactive as parents.

Episode Reveals

• The dangers every child faces online

• The covert ways predators try to access children

• How parents can keep their children safe online

• Why sextortion is on the rise and how it happens

• How to create trust with your child so they will come to you about difficult things they may see online

BEST MOMENTS

“It's invaded our lives and we've all become so dependent upon it and it has it's advantages for sure, but it also has a whole host of disadvantages.”

“ I really just couldn't believe how, how under attack our kids are and the parents need to open up their eyes and understand this.”

“It's not about me not trusting my children. I trust my children. I love my children. I want them to grow up and I wanna be their friend. I wanna be their best friend. But the reality is I'm here to be their parent, and I'm here to make sure that they grow up into a responsible adult that doesn't get abused before they get to an age where they can make logical decisions.”

“ They figure stuff out and they're still gonna wanna be rebellious. They're kids. You know, I say all the time, I thank God I didn't have this technology when I was a kid. '”

“ If there's an adult talking online with kids, that's a red flag.”

EPISODE RESOURCES

Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠https://amzn.eu/d/hIXiGIA

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adversity-institute/

Website: https://www.adversity.institute/

👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff

New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Discord because Meta is shutting down fb messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

HOST BIO

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest, sharing her experiences and strategies that work for her. And joining him in this journey is his wife, Annie, who will also contribute to the podcast with her unique perspective and support. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!

CONTACT ME

 Facebook: facebook.com/cliff.kilmister
 Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08
 LinkedIn: Cliff Kilmister
 X (Twitter): @KilmisterCliff

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

 Cliff and Eva talk about the topic of stimming, including what it is, how it feels and why understanding it is so important. They share their own experiences of stimming and discuss how stimming helps individuals self-regulate, communicate and thrive!

Episode Reveals

• Common forms of stimming

• Why stimming is so regulating for neurodiverse individuals

• How stimming can aid learning for many pupils

• How others can respond to stimming and how to manage it

• The important distinctions between fidgets, sensory aids and ‘toys’

• How parents and teachers can help support stimming behaviours

BEST MOMENTS

“ Is it possible that the parents just haven't recognised it before?”

“ If your child is flapping their hands around, there's a good chance that they're stimming.”

“Auditory stimming, where we repeat sounds and noises such as humming or tapping, repeating words or phrases.”

“ I've just gotten used to it. It feels normal for me.”

“ Sometimes it helps you to focus on your learning.”

“ They used the word toy instead of fidget, which annoys me a little bit because they're not toys, they're fidgets.”

“Certain people, I can be myself, like with like with my best friend, I can be myself around him.”

RESOURCES

⁠Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠https://amzn.eu/d/hIXiGIA

👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff

New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Discord because Meta is shutting down fb messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

HOST BIO

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest, sharing her experiences and strategies that work for her. And joining him in this journey is his wife, Annie, who will also contribute to the podcast with her unique perspective and support. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!

CONTACT ME

 Facebook: facebook.com/cliff.kilmister
 Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08
 LinkedIn: Cliff Kilmister
 X (Twitter): @KilmisterCliff

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Most schools and many teachers do not properly understand the challenges and complexities in supporting children with additional needs. In this episode, Cliff and his daughter Eva talk about how systems within schools can inadvertently cause issues for children who are neurodiverse. They also discuss the lack of trust in many mainstream schools and the impact this has on the emotional wellbeing of students.

Episode Reveals

• The differences Eva found in mainstream -vs- private schools in accommodating her needs

• How building a foundation of trust can aid in all students to feel at ease in school

• The difference between mindfulness and mental health and why schools need to recognise this

• Why respect goes both ways between teachers and students; students do not respect teachers if they are treated poorly

BEST MOMENTS

“ It certainly doesn't feel like a place that makes you feel welcome. Is this part of why you don't feel comfortable going to this school?”

“ I've heard that term way too much, mental health used by the wrong people. Wrong people, meaning teachers. They use that word too much, some words are overused with teachers like mental health and mindfulness. They're used in the wrong way.”

“ We're all being treated the same, in the mainstream school, we're all wearing the same uniform. We're all being told to have the same. Well, how it feels is we're all being told to have the same sort of personality.”

RESOURCES

👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff

New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Discord because Meta is shutting down fb messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

⁠⁠Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠https://amzn.eu/d/hIXiGIA

HOST BIO

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest, sharing her experiences and strategies that work for her. And joining him in this journey is his wife, Annie, who will also contribute to the podcast with her unique perspective and support. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!

CONTACT ME

 Facebook: facebook.com/cliff.kilmister
 Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08
 LinkedIn: Cliff Kilmister
 X (Twitter): @KilmisterCliff

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Cliff is joined by  Colin, a standup comedian and parent who shows ADHD brings heart and humour to the ups and downs of life with additional needs.  As neurodivergent parents, Colin and Cliff talk about the challenges they face themselves, the invisible struggles and the ways they try to cope, often with humour helping! They share how they manage situations with themselves and their children, including mechanisms for preventing sensory overload and coming to terms with the stigma around labels. 

Episode Reveals

Why humour can be the best way to cope with the everyday chaos of a neurodiverse household.

How subtle signs of neurodivergence are often dismissed early on by parents and other caregivers.

The difficulties with obtaining a diagnosis for ASD or ADHD in later life.

The challenges in distinguishing between actual neurodivergent traits and learned behaviour from neurodiverse family members.

The common overlaps between trauma and neurodivergence.

The guilt many neurodiverse parents feel when their children subsequently get diagnosed.

How to manage sensory overload and prevent ‘meltdowns’.

BEST MOMENTS 

“We always knew there was something different about her.”

“ If I'm focused on something, if you try and stop me doing it, I can become quite aggressive, almost quite angry.”

“ I have these guilty moments when, when I think, oh, I've made my daughter broken.”

“ Every party I went to as a child, my dad carried me out and I'd had a headache and I'd been sick. Because it was just over sensory.”

“ I learnt to mask and socially I'm pretty good.”

“There are kids that have just had crappy parenting and, and they display behaviours that are very similar to someone that is neurodiverse.”

“ There's a lot of stigma around labelling. I personally struggled with that for a while until I reframed it in my brain that actually it's not giving a label. It's understanding that there is a difference.”

“You realise as you get older and all these diagnoses come out that actually I wasn't normal, but, well, the truth is, with school, whether you are neurodiverse or not, you've just gotta get through it.”

EPISODE RESOURCES

👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff

New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV

Facebook: ComicColin78

Instagram: @comiccolin78

TikTok: @comiccolin78 

Podcast – Colin in Conversation: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/colin-in-conversation/id1796019233

Spotify, Amazon Music, and other major podcast apps

⁠⁠Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠https://amzn.eu/d/hIXiGIA

HOST BIO

Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest, sharing her experiences and strategies that work for her. And joining him in this journey is his wife, Annie, who will also contribute to the podcast with her unique perspective and support. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! 

CONTACT ME

Facebook: ⁠facebook.com/cliff.kilmister⁠ Instagram: ⁠@cliff_kilmister08⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠Cliff Kilmister⁠ X (Twitter): ⁠@KilmisterCliff⁠