NeuroDiverse Journeys: Embracing Challenges, Celebrating Triumphs | Nicola and Jo

--:--
In this conversation between Gershom Aitchison (Edu Inc Headmaster) and two mothers Nicola and Jo who have children on the autism spectrum. Nicola's son is 19 and was diagnosed around age 7. Jo's son is 13 and was diagnosed around age 4.

They discussed their journeys raising neurodiverse children, including the challenges with getting diagnoses, finding supportive school environments, dealing with public perceptions and stigma, and pivotal moments of seeing their children's empathy and potential.

Key themes included the importance of early intervention and consistent therapy, being a tireless advocate for your child, finding other parents to connect with, and having no expectations except giving your child the tools to be a decent human being.

They acknowledge there is no single recipe for success given each child's uniqueness.

The mothers agree this difficult journey has been a privilege that has shaped them profoundly.
19 Nov 2023 English South Africa Education · Society & Culture

Other recent episodes

Disability inclusion in education

Gershom Aitchison speaks to Chelsea Williamson, iSchool Africa and iStore Education, about technology access and support for children with disabilities in South Africa.
17 Oct 2023 24 min

Coding education in South Africa

In this episode, Gershom Aitchison speaks with Cameron Busch, Lead Coding and Robotics Facilitator at iStore Education, about coding education in South Africa with a focus on accessibility and resilience.
17 Oct 2023 21 min

The Power of Youth

A Look at Young Authors In this episode Jenny Ostrowick talks to Katryst Chari about what is means to be a young author in South Africa. Katryst has a short story published in a book called 'Social Justice Stories: viruses, villains, victims & victors'. She shares valuable insight about how…
19 Apr 2023 20 min

Life Orientation - Making An Impact

In this episode, Ishan Singh (Deputy Head at Education Incorporated) talks to his grade 10 Life Orientation class about their course "Making An Impact". The episode explores resilience, grit, and the flow channel in the context of flourishing at school.
28 Mar 2023 21 min