Understanding PDA: Demand Avoidance and Its Impact on Neurodivergent Children with Jessie Townz

School & Audhdacious Humans

Ever felt overwhelmed trying to fit neurodivergent kids into a system that just wasn't built for them? Working with families in education, we see it all — small class sizes, flexible timings, and truly personalized learning can make a difference. But what if the entire system shifted to prioritize understanding and individuality? Imagine classrooms where every child is seen, heard, and respected for who they are. No more one-size-fits-all, just truly human education. It starts with honest conversations and rethinking what learning really means. I chat to @audhdaucioushumans. Martha and Jenni are the founders of AuDHDacious Humans, where they support discombobulated families to understand sensory systems, reframe behaviour, and ditch the systems that break them. With 40 years of combined teaching experience, they met at a progressive school where they became each other's children's key teachers. But despite knowing exactly what neurodivergent children needed, they realised their own AuDHD/PDA kids weren't school-shaped, not even alternative-school-shaped. So three years ago, they left the education system and started their real education. They went on to create Make & Create Club, a flexible, low-demand space where rule makers and rule breakers thrive. As late-diagnosed AuDHDers parenting pressure-sensitive children, they've lived this experience themselves, unravelling everything they thought they knew about parenting and education. Some people call it a journey. They call it a reckoning. What change could you see making the biggest difference?

Autistic Joy with Jon and Erin

Most of us take joy for granted—until we realise we’ve been suppressing it. Jon and I share how embracing authentic excitement transformed our lives. What if you stopped suppressing your passions and let yourself feel this all-consuming happiness? This episode breaks down the subtle yet powerful ways neurodivergent minds experience joy differently—whether through stimming, hyperfocus, or sensory-rich interests. You’ll discover: the significance of surrounding yourself with like-minded people who celebrate your enthusiasm, how unmasking can unlock deeper happiness, and why advocating for your needs is a form of self-love. We explore the barriers neurodivergent individuals face when embracing their joy, from societal expectations to internalised shame, revealing how self-acceptance opens the door to genuine fulfilment. We also delve into the quirks that make neurodivergent joy so unique—and why these are more than coping mechanisms: they are vital channels for self-regulation and happiness. With humour and empathy, we discuss how these joys ripple into everyday life—strengthening friendships, easing parenting, and fostering deep self-awareness. Particularly powerful is the reflection on how diagnosis changes everything—empowering us to be unapologetically ourselves.

Neurodivergence and birth with Victoria White

In this episode I invite Victoria White back to talk about the intersection of neurodiversity and birth. We explore the importance of understanding neurodivergent experiences in perinatal care, the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals during pregnancy and birth, and the need for healthcare professionals to be aware of these unique needs. Victoria shares her personal journey as a doula and a mother of a neurodivergent child, emphasizing the significance of communication, support, and self-awareness in creating a positive birthing experience for neurodivergent individuals. The conversation also addresses misconceptions surrounding neurodiversity and the importance of community engagement and resources for better support. You can find free resources at https://www.ndbirth.com You can follow Neurodivergent Birth on social media https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentbirth/

Understanding PDA: Demand Avoidance and Its Impact on Neurodivergent Children with Jessie Townz

Understanding PDA: Demand Avoidance and Its Impact on Neurodivergent Children This episode features a heartfelt and insightful conversation about Pathologically Demand Avoidant (PDA) behavior, its misunderstood nature, and practical approaches for supporting neurodivergent children. Jessie shares her lived experience as a parent, explores the importance of framing PDA as a drive for autonomy, and discusses community support resources.Main Topics Covered: * The definition and misconceptions of PDA as demand avoidance * The importance of terminology shift from "pathological demand avoidance" to "drive for autonomy" * How PDA manifests in children and adults, including behaviors like masking, dysregulation, swearing, and physical outbursts * Strategies for reducing demands and framing requests to avoid escalation * The significance of understanding individual tolerance levels, sleep, hunger, and environment * The role of support groups for parents and advocacy for school accommodations * Practical tips for daily routines, mealtime, and managing meltdowns * The impact of emotional regulation and nervous system-based interventions * Community resources and how to connect with others for support Resources & Links: Connect with Jessie: * The PDA Society [https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/] – Advocacy and information on PDA * Linda K. Murphy’s book on Declarative Language [https://www.amazon.com/Declarative-Language-Jessica-Murphy/dp/XXXXXX] (search for exact title) – Effective communication strategies * PDA Parents Circle [https://yourwebsite.com/pda-parents-circle] – Community and support network setup by Jessie * Instagram Profile of Jessie [https://instagram.com/mrs.jessietowns] – For daily updates, resources, and community support * Instagram [https://instagram.com/mrs.jessietowns] * Website [https://yourwebsite.com/] (coming soon!) Note: The insights shared in this episode aim to normalize neurodivergence and encourage tailored support that respects individual needs and autonomy.

Living, Loving, and Supporting Autism: Insights from James Hunt

In this episode I chat to the inspirational James Hunt. James is a devoted father and advocate for autism awareness. He shares his experiences raising two autistic sons and building a supportive community through social media and his clothing brand. We explore the nuances of communication, acceptance, and the power of connection in family life with autism. In this episode: * James shares his motivations behind creating the "Stories About Autism" Instagram account and the impact it has had on his family and others. * The significance of community, sharing, and catharsis in mental health and advocacy. * Deep insights into non-speaking versus non-verbal communication and the importance of understanding different ways autistic individuals communicate. * Celebrating small joys and moments of achievement, especially breakthroughs in communication like texting. * The story behind James Hunt's clothing brand advocating neurodiversity and its role in fostering acceptance and connection. * The process of writing a heartfelt book about navigating autism, life's unexpected challenges, and finding hope amid difficulty. * James's hopes for his sons' future, emphasizing independence, happiness, and experiencing the world fully. * Practical advice for families, parents, and allies to create inclusive environments and embrace neurodivergence. Resources & Links: * Love Needs No Words - James Hunt's Book [https://amazon.com/] * Stories About Autism Instagram [https://instagram.com/storiesaboutautism] * SAA Clothing Instagram [https://instagram.com/saaclothing] * James Hunt's Advocate Jumper [https://saaclothing.com/] * Instagram [https://instagram.com/storiesaboutautism] * Facebook [https://facebook.com/storiesaboutautism] * Website [https://saaclothing.com/] Note: James Hunt’s book "Love Needs No Words" is available now at major bookstores, including Amazon and local independents. The shop in Burnham-on-Crouch in Essex offers community-focused support and merchandise, that encourage acceptance and understanding worldwide.