The Gift of Presence:

Supporting your wildchild through connection & sit-withs

In our darkest moments, especially for neurodivergent children, we often seek something profound yet beautifully simple: human connection. What these children truly yearn for isn’t just solutions or advice; it’s the quiet comfort of having someone who understands their unique struggles—a gentle touch or a steady presence. These small gestures become vital anchors, helping them feel secure when the world feels overwhelming.

It's important to remember not to rush in with solutions. When a neurodivergent child is struggling, they may not need someone to fix their feelings or take on their pain. Instead, what they need is companionship. Sit beside them as they navigate their inner storms, offering your steady hand when they reach for support.

Their emotions are theirs to explore, and the challenges they face are part of their journey. Yet, your presence can serve as a powerful reminder that they are not alone in this vast, sometimes intimidating world. Even during moments of uncertainty, your support reassures them that they are worthy of love and understanding.

In those challenging times when a child feels lost or overwhelmed, will you stand by them? Not as a rescuer, but as a compassionate companion? Hold their hand, provide a safe space for expression, and simply be there until the dawn of understanding arrives.

Your silent support is a priceless gift. It fosters a love that helps them recognise their strengths and worth, even when they struggle to see it themselves. By embracing the beauty of connection, we can help neurodivergent children feel valued, understood, and empowered to navigate their world.

How you can do this …..

Your child's need for connection and understanding is key to moving forward. Our wildchild often yearns for understanding rather than solutions. What they really need is another person’s quiet presence, a sit-with —a gentle touch or steady companionship.

Here are some suggestions on how to effectively support your wildchild while cultivating connection:

1. Be Present and Attentive

• Take the time to sit beside them during moments of distress.

• Sometimes, your physical presence alone can provide immense comfort. Listen patiently without rushing to offer solutions, allowing them to express their feelings at their own pace.

2. Create a Safe Environment

• Establish a space where they feel safe to express their emotions

• without judgement or opinion. This can be a quiet room filled with calming sensory items like soft cushions, weighted blankets, or fidget toys. A familiar setting can help reduce overwhelming stimuli.

  
  

3. Use Gentle Touch

• When appropriate, a gentle touch, such as a hand on their

• shoulder or a hug, can be reassuring. Always ask before doing this, as every child has different comfort levels regarding physical interaction.

  
  

4. Encourage Open Communication

• Offer an atmosphere where they feel comfortable sharing their

• thoughts and feelings. Actively listening. Validate their experiences by reflecting on what they share and affirming their feelings.

  
  

5. Be Patient with Emotions

• Recognise that your wild child may express emotions differently.

• Provide them the time and space to process their feelings. Sometimes, it’s okay for them to sit quietly without feeling pressured to "snap out of it."

6. Use Visual Supports

• Visual schedules, charts, or pictures can be helpful in reducing

• anxiety about transitions and changes in routine. These tools can provide clarity and a sense of control over their environment.

  
  

7. Engage in Shared Activities

• Find something that you both enjoy, which can help strengthen

• your bond. Whether it's drawing, playing games, or going for a nature walk, shared experiences can support connection and trust.

8. Encourage Self-Advocacy

• Teach your wild child to voice their needs. Empowering them

• to articulate their feelings and wants helps them build confidence and reinforces that their voice matters.

9. Celebrate Their Strengths

• Focus on their interests and strengths. Recognising their

• unique talents and encouraging them to pursue their passions fosters a positive self-image and reinforces their sense of worth.

10. Be a Steady Presence 

• Your consistent, unwavering support can make all the difference.

• Let them know that you are there for them unconditionally, reinforcing the idea that they are never alone in their struggles.

  
  

In those challenging times when a child feels lost or overwhelmed, being a reliable source of support is crucial. Rather than acting as a rescuer, embrace your role as a compassionate companion. Hold their hand through the tough moments, and remind them that it’s okay to take things one step at a time.

Your silent support is a priceless gift that helps our wild child to recognise their strengths and worth, even when they struggle to see it. By embracing the beauty of connection, you can empower your child to navigate their world with confidence, knowing they are valued and understood.

💜 Raising a Wild Child 💜