I started primary school on my fifth birthday and middle school (as we had back then) on my tenth.  Being a fairly classic Virgo, I think the potential disappointment of my birthdays falling on such days was cancelled out by the fact of a brand new pencil case filled with beautiful pens.

Neurodivergent children can have very different experiences of school.  Some may love it or least aspects of it.  Others may find all of it extremely difficult.  But what can be very common amongst many, particularly children who are Autistic, is that transitioning between school years or starting a new school can be incredibly challenging.

Welcome to the fourth episode for parents supporting students as they embark on their university experience. In this episode Elizabeth talks to Elaine Halligan, from The Parent Practice. Elaine shares her advice for preparing and then supporting our young adults as they make the transition from home to independent living. In this episode Elizabeth and Elaine discuss:

• When to start preparing your child for adulthood - you may be surprised by the answer.

• Ideas on how to prepare your child for adulthood.

• The boomerang generation and the shift in mindset needed about families and parenting.

• The impact of the empty nest on parents and Elaine's take on the challenge but also the opportunity.

• Advice on how to manage the return of your young adult for holidays.

• The importance of establishing your communication pattern with your young adult before they leave.

Welcome to The Parent Practice Podcast, the show for anyone who cares for and about children.  We know you want your children to be happy, confident and successful and that you do your best to be a good parent. Sometimes you probably beat yourself up for not being good enough. Good parenting can be simple if you know how. We can support you here by exploring a range of topics to enable you to feel calmer and happier and to help you get that parenting manual you wish you'd had from the beginning.

Melissa and Elaine recorded 36 episodes over an 18 month period, and the podcast ceased October 2020, but by sharing the episodes, parents are still benefitting. Thank you for listening