In this episode, we dive deep into the impact of school trauma on children, particularly those with a PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) profile. This episode answers a key question: what are the next steps in the healing journey, when living a low-demand, school-free life?

Join us as we unpack the concept of trauma, how it manifests in children, and why post-traumatic stress is a rational and orderly response to distress. We challenge the idea of pathologizing children's trauma responses and emphasize the importance of providing long-term, consistent trust, safety, and space.

Key points covered include:

-The origins of trauma in children, even before school begins.

-How society's demands for productivity and compliance create barriers for PDA children.

-The importance of holding space for children during recovery, honouring their individual needs, and understanding what low demand or no demand looks like for each family.

-Why recovery from trauma can take as long or longer than the time spent in survival mode.

-The impact of hypervigilance on PDA children during recovery and the importance of creating an environment that supports rest and connection.

The episode also touches on the importance of parallel living, finding connection through simple activities like screen time, and how parents must prioritize their own healing as an essential part of supporting their children.

Key Takeaways:

-Trauma can begin long before school starts, rooted in the expectations society places on children and families.

-Post-traumatic stress is a logical response to trauma, not a disorder, but a way the body and mind protect themselves.

-Recovery from trauma is a delicate, long-term process that requires individualized approaches.

-Families need to prioritize their own healing in order to help their children heal.

-Connection can look different in neurodivergent families and might involve non-traditional forms of bonding, such as parallel living.

Who is this episode for? 

This episode is for parents, caregivers, and professionals working with neurodivergent children, particularly those dealing with school-related trauma. It provides insights into the realities of trauma recovery, low-demand living, and how to navigate the complex needs of children with PDA.

Connect with Us:

Website: www.kristyforbes.com.au

Instagram: _kristyforbes

Facebook: intunepathways

Thank You:

A special thank you to our community member who generously shared their story and question about supporting their child through PTSD recovery. Your experience will resonate with many families on a similar journey. You are a phenomenal parent doing all the right things.