When you are faced with a diagnosis given to your child, it can feel like the rug has been pulled out from under you or, conversely, you might feel relieved! Whether you feel like the diagnosis has confirmed your suspicions, or you feel angry, confused and grief, all of it is normal and natural and OK!

BUT the one thing that isn’t ok, is you not taking care of yourself. being the parent of a neurodivergent child can be a rollercoaster of challenging moments, fun, laughter, joy and sadness all at once. In short, it can be exhausting, and if you don’t take the steps to care and nurture your needs, it’s not good for anyone.

In this episode, we talk about how to process and make sense of a diagnosis and how to make sure we take care of ourselves along the way! Dr. Noreen Russell is back for another discussion with me. She is the mom of two neurologically atypical kids and has a practice dedicated to serving complex children and their parents. She knows firsthand how important it is to take care of your needs as a parent (ALL PARENTS!)

I love Dr. Russell’s approach to self-care. She talks about learning what “self-care” means for YOU. It can be a hot bath or a walk, OR it can be dropping the ball on something, making a frozen pizza for dinner; it’s whatever you want it to be. Keep in mind that taking care of yourself requires that you are giving yourself permission to do it without guilt, shame or worry. You may need to include what you need into your budget and your calendar.

For examples of questions to ask before, during and after an ADHD diagnosis, you can download it from the Parent Toolbox. toolbox.com">www.parent-toolbox.com

For a 10% discount on Dr. Russell’s programs for summer or coaching, use code ROBBIN

About Norrine Russell

Dr. Norrine Russell began Russell Coaching for Students in 2009, now a premier national coaching practice for middle school through college students with students across the US and Canada. Her passion for providing support to frustrated students and weary parents is fuelled by her own experience of raising two complex children who are both neurologically atypical (her children’s diagnoses include autism, mood disorders, ADHD, giftedness, and learning differences). Dr. Russell knows first-hand the exhaustion parents face as they day in and day out seek solutions for their out-of-the-box children. The entire team at Russell Coaching is committed to supporting the psychological wellbeing, education, and family life of their clients.

Social Media:

Website: https://russellcoaching.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/norrine-russell-820545184/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drnorrinerussell

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellcoachingllc/

Thanks for listening! For more on Robbin, her work and free resources, keep reading!

READY FOR YOUR FAMILY CHECK UP CALL? If you’re feeling burnt out by bad behavior, worn down from constant battles and bickering and you’ve struggled to get the cooperation, respect and obedience you want from your kids, I’ve been there too. It might be time to learn new tools (that you’ve never been taught) to help you get your kids to listen to you, build teamwork, and grow the harmony in your home. https://parentingforconnection.as.me/Checkupcall

FREE GUIDE FOR PARENTS OF STRONG-WILLED KIDS: “How to Turn a NO into Cooperation” go to www.strongwilledkids.com

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The intention for my show is to build a community of parents that can have open and honest conversations about parenting without judgement or criticism. We all deserve access to help and support when we need it most.  

I honour each parent and their path towards becoming the best parent they can be. My hope is to inspire more parents to consider the practice of Peaceful Parenting.

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