The Stares we Face: Part 5 - The Supportive Parent

Not every stare comes from judgment—some come from parents who genuinely want to be more inclusive but don’t know how. And that’s a good place to start. So, if you’re a parent wondering, “How can I make things better?” —here’s where you begin: ✔ Encourage conversations – Talk to your child about different ways people communicate and play. Let them know differences are normal. ✔ Ask, don’t assume – If you see a neurodiverse child at a party or event, ask their parent if there’s anything to know that could make interactions easier. ✔ Normalize accommodations – Does your child’s school have sensory-friendly spaces? Are birthday parties inclusive of different needs? If not, be the parent who advocates for change. ✔ Model kindness – If your child sees you include and embrace differences, they will, too. Inclusivity starts with small, intentional actions. A smile. A simple question. A willingness to learn. If you’re a neurotypical parent who wants to create a more inclusive enviro...