Juggling work and parenting a ND child

Parents and carers of neurodivergent kids know too well the journey from Neurodiversity 101 to PhD is a steep learning curve born of love and a deep need for understanding.

But, to be frank, it can be pretty overwhelming.

Throw in managing your career and it can seem like you are working two full time jobs. And then some.

I don’t know anyone who appreciates their job as much as parent of an ND child. The chance to use your brain just for you, to speak with other adults about things that have nothing to do with your child, to finish a cup of coffee (maybe even an actual barista made one at that). But the fear that when your phone rings it might be school, the need to constantly access carer or sick leave for ALL the appointments, and the fact that between work and home your brain never actually gets any downtime - it. Is. A lot.

Speak with your manager and give them the opportunity to learn about your reality. Request accommodations (just like you do for your children) and know your rights as a carer of a child with a disability. If you can, find an employer who is flexible and appreciates that your situation is unique and challenging.

Some examples of flexible working conditions you might ask for: altered start and finish times, compressed weeks, commuting home earlier in the day so you are ready to go as soon as you sign off, WFH, ability to still work if your child is home (it was ok during COVID right?), camera off during some meetings because you just can’t…the list goes on.

And above all, be kind to yourself. Just like your kid you are giving 100% all the time, even if that looks different everyday.