I used to think parenting was an endless to-do list: feed, clothe, educate, clean, repeat.
Then I became mum to a child whose brain comes with extra sensory prompts and surprise mood swings and suddenly, it wasn’t about checking boxes, it was about forging connection.
I’ve tested dozens of hacks, but these five?
They’re the ones I share at sleep-deprived playgroup meet-ups, the ones that genuinely shift the vibe from chaos to collaboration.
Tip 1: “Why?” Before “Why Not?”
When your child resists getting dressed, instead of barking “Hurry up!”, try pausing and asking “What’s making this tricky?”
You’ll be amazed. It might be the texture of their shirt or the brightness of the light.
By digging into the reason rather than dismissing it you’re sending a clear message: I’m on your team.
Suddenly, you’re solving problems together, not battling over buttons.
Tip 2: Batch Tasks into “Power-Up” Sessions
Long tasks can feel like climbing Everest to a neurodiverse brain.
So break them into bite-sized bursts, twenty minutes of laundry or tidying, followed by a five-minute victory dance.
Use a timer or a fun playlist.
The deadline and the reward work wonders: they provide structure, momentum and a dash of silliness to glue it all together.
Tip 3: Self-Soothing Toolkits
We all need a comfort go-to, right?
Create a small box stocked with stress balls, cuddly keyrings, calming hand-cream and a short playlist of mellow tunes.
When overwhelm strikes, your child can grab their kit and take a breather.
It’s autonomy, self-regulation and sensory relief all rolled into one.
Tip 4: Family “Cheer-On” Board
Hang a whiteboard in the hallway and dedicate it to positivity.
Each evening, everyone writes one thing they appreciated about someone else that day.
It might feel cheesy at first, but within days you’ll see the mood shift, from bristly and defensive to open and supportive.
Tip 5: Laugh It Off
When plans collapse, I throw on a ridiculous hat or break into a goofy dance.
The goal isn’t grace; it’s release.
Laughter resets the emotional thermostat and reminds everyone that imperfect is perfectly fine.
And for me? I protect fifteen minutes after bedtime for pure mum-time: chocolate, memes or a cheeky podcast.
Self-care isn’t a luxury, it’s your lifeline..
This was very helpful!