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A young boy with autism and PDA is running away from his concerned mother in a park, his expression showing determination rather than defiance. He's reaching toward imaginary characters only he can see, illustrating how elopement and fantasy often intertwine as coping mechanisms for children with PDA who seek escape from overwhelming demands.

A young boy with autism and PDA is running away from his concerned mother in a park, his expression showing determination rather than defiance. He's reaching toward imaginary characters only he can see, illustrating how elopement and fantasy often intertwine as coping mechanisms for children with PDA who seek escape from overwhelming demands.

Understanding When a Child with Autism and PDA Elopes or Uses Fantasy

When a child with autism and PDA elopes or uses fantasy, they're using coping mechanisms to manage overwhelming demands and anxiety. Learn how to support their need for autonomy while keeping them safe, with practical strategies for parents navigating these challenging behaviors while fostering connection and understanding.

Apr 208 min read

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Unique Ways Your Child with Autism and PDA May Show Love

Unique Ways Your Child with Autism and PDA May Show Love

Unique Ways Your Child with Autism and PDA May Show Love

Understanding the unique ways your child with autism and PDA may show love requires looking beyond traditional expressions of affection. From sharing special interests and maintaining proximity, to functional communication and problem-solving, these children express a deep connection in their own meaningful language. When we learn to recognize and appreciate these subtle expressions, we discover a profound bond that's simply communicated differently.

Apr 118 min read

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A young neurodivergent child with autism and PDA covering their face with hands, showing signs of extreme embarrassment in a classroom setting.

A young neurodivergent child with autism and PDA covering their face with hands, showing signs of extreme embarrassment in a classroom setting.

When Emotions Run High: Understanding Extreme Embarrassment with Autism and PDA

Embarrassment in children with autism and PDA: practical strategies for parents to support emotional regulation and build resistance

Mar 298 min read

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A young boy with autism and PDA sleeping peacefully in a sensory-friendly nap space, surrounded by comfort items including a weighted blanket and soft cushions. The room features gentle lighting and minimal distractions, creating an environment that supports his neurodivergent sleep needs.

A young boy with autism and PDA sleeping peacefully in a sensory-friendly nap space, surrounded by comfort items including a weighted blanket and soft cushions. The room features gentle lighting and minimal distractions, creating an environment that supports his neurodivergent sleep needs.

PDA and Napping: Understanding Your Child's Rest Needs

Finding peaceful paths to rest for children with PDA and autism requires understanding, not demands. Learn strategies that actually work!

Mar 157 min read

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A smiling blonde girl with autism sits at her school desk, holding an open book. Her genuine expression captures a moment of joy and engagement in the learning environment, showcasing neurodivergent children thriving when supported in educational settings.

A smiling blonde girl with autism sits at her school desk, holding an open book. Her genuine expression captures a moment of joy and engagement in the learning environment, showcasing neurodivergent children thriving when supported in educational settings.

The Hidden Struggle: Masking Autism and PDA at School

Masking autism and PDA at school exhausts children and impacts mental health. Recognize the signs and support your child's authentic self.

Mar 139 min read

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A neurodivergent child with PDA hugging and intensely focused on her adult friend. Their expression shows deep attachment and affection, illustrating the concept of person-focused obsessions common in children with Pathological Demand Avoidance, autism, and ADHD.

A neurodivergent child with PDA hugging and intensely focused on her adult friend. Their expression shows deep attachment and affection, illustrating the concept of person-focused obsessions common in children with Pathological Demand Avoidance, autism, and ADHD.

Obsession with People and PDA: Understanding Social Attachments in Pathological Demand Avoidance

When children with PDA and autism find someone who makes them feel safe, they don't just like that person—they are enthralled by them.

Mar 613 min read

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A compassionate mother embraces her two children, who display traits of autism, ADHD, anxiety, and PDA. Her gentle, understanding expression shows acceptance of their neurodivergence, while the children's body language reflects both the connection they share and the complex emotions that come with navigating daily challenges. This tender moment captures the beautiful bond between a parent and her children with different neurological needs.

A compassionate mother embraces her two children, who display traits of autism, ADHD, anxiety, and PDA. Her gentle, understanding expression shows acceptance of their neurodivergence, while the children's body language reflects both the connection they share and the complex emotions that come with navigating daily challenges. This tender moment captures the beautiful bond between a parent and her children with different neurological needs.

When They Say You're Not Parenting Hard Enough: Navigating PDA Misconceptions

When told you're not firm enough with your PDA child, remember: you're not "soft parenting" – you're responding to demand avoidance.

Mar 512 min read

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