By this point in the summer, you’ve probably got a sixth sense for it: the poking, bickering or screeching that means another sibling spat is erupting. Summer, with more together time and a routine that often gets tossed out the window, brings sweet memories as well as plenty of opportunities for conflict. Before you start […]
Should I seek an ADHD evaluation for my child? 5 questions to help
One million more U.S. children had received an ADHD diagnosis in 2022 compared with 2016, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 1 in 9 children between the ages of 3 and 17 have received the diagnosis, prompting the report to label ADHD as “an ongoing and expanding […]
Let’s get serious about play
We typically keep things pretty light and breezy here. But give us a moment on our soapbox to discuss something near and dear to our hearts: play. June 11 marked the first-ever International Day of Play, an annual event established by the United Nations. We celebrated all of June with daily #monthofplay ideas on Instagram […]
A treasure trove of #monthofplay ideas
We spent the month of June sharing play ideas on social media in celebration of the International Day of Play, but we wanted to gather some of those ideas in one place as a tool for families. Each family is different; scan through these and see which activities might work for yours. These ideas typically […]
5 Life-Changing Habits To Transform Your Mental Health
As the saying goes, “If you keep a habit, sooner or later it can feel like a part of you.” For parents — especially those supporting their children through distinct challenges — self-care is vital to maintaining the health of the family. Fortunately, you can transform your mental health with 5 surprisingly simple habits. Start small, […]
14 Unexpected Ways to Boost Your Mental Health Now
Practicing good mental health doesn’t always mean a lengthy list of “shoulds” and “should nots.” You can boost your mental health right now through activities you want to do. Here are 14 research-backed ways to boost mental health (for adults or kids) that may surprise you: Have fun playfully boosting your spirits! We wish you […]
Xboxes and PlayStations: The World Through The Lens Of Neurodivergence
“Think of it like comparing an Xbox and a PlayStation,” neurodiversity advocate Ethan Lisi says in a TED Talk. “They’re both highly capable consoles with different programming. But if you put your Xbox game in a PlayStation, it won’t work, because the PlayStation communicates differently.” Sometimes, the world can feel like that to a neurodivergent […]
An Open Letter to Parents of Children with Autism
Dear Parents, Raising any child today means so many battle fronts — with external risks, internal worries, and often a heavy side of guilt. And when a child is on the autism spectrum, unique challenges, myths and misunderstandings can make the load heavier. But we want to reassure you: You are a great parent. All […]
The Power of Play
5 reasons play therapy helps neurodivergent children thrive For neurodivergent children, verbal communication and social cues may feel unnatural — and that can make traditional therapies difficult or uncomfortable. Enter play. This intuitive language of childhood — a language of exploration, expression, and making sense of the world — becomes an accessible connection point. By […]
Telehealth: A Powerful Ally To Diagnose, Treat Child Neurological Conditions
About 1 in 36 children has autism spectrum disorder, according to the latest CDC estimates. And the prevalence of a broad range of other neurological conditions in children continues to climb, other research shows. That makes today’s delays in diagnoses and treatment particularly troubling. Not only is the need increasing amidst a health care labor […]
Stuck Inside
9 ideas to turn cabin fever into cabin fun Together time can hit its limits when the weather, sickness, or some other circumstance means you’re stuck inside. We are huge fans of playfulness here at Pariva — we believe it’s the pixie dust that transforms relationships and learning from ordinary into magical. Below are nine […]
Readjusting To Routine
Back to school: Tips for a smooth transition Poll most any parents — especially after a lengthy break from school — and they’ll reassure you that kids need routines. Research backs up the anecdotal evidence. Those predictable routines, along with engaging environments and positive interactions between adults and children, help mitigate challenging behaviors, as well […]
Supporting Your Neurodivergent Child
When we embrace our neurodiverse children, we accept and celebrate them. Your child is an amazing being with so many strengths that deserve to be celebrated, appreciated, and cherished. Neurodiversity is not something that needs to be “fixed” or “cured”, but rather embraced. What does it mean to embrace neurodiversity? Embracing neurodiversity is about acknowledging […]
Understanding Anxiety in Neurodivergent Children
Anxiety’s like that puzzle you stare at, thinking it’s a simple square, only to realize it’s a multi-dimensional Rubik’s Cube. But fear not, we’re here to unravel some of those intricate patterns and give our exceptional kids the superhero support they deserve! 1. The Anxiety Kaleidoscope Anxiety’s not a one-flavor-fits-all ice cream cone, and that’s […]
Building Resilience in Neurodivergent Children
We’re diving deep into the realm of building super resilience in our unstoppable neurodivergent crew. Get ready to sprinkle some magic and unwrap the most epic guide to cultivating unbreakable spirits! 1. Embrace the Quirk-tactic Talents Picture this: a talent show where everyone’s a superstar. Every kiddo, neurodivergent or not, has unique abilities. Whether it’s […]
The Role of Visual Supports in Learning
Imagine if learning had a secret language that could unlock doors of understanding, independence, and confidence. Well, hold onto your wizard hats because visual supports are here to make that magic happen! The Enchanted World of Visual Supports Visual supports are like the fairy godmothers of learning, waving their wands to transform complex ideas into […]
Speech Therapy: Building Communication Skills In Neurodivergent Children
Imagine a world where words are like magical keys, unlocking doors to friendships, dreams, and understanding. Now, picture this world through the eyes of our extraordinary neurodivergent superheroes. For them, the path to fluent communication might have a few twists and turns, but fear not – that’s where the enchanting journey of speech therapy swoops […]
Sibling Dynamics: Supporting Neurotypical Siblings of Neurodivergent Children
Imagine growing up with a dash of extraordinary! Let’s look into the world of neurotypical siblings, whose adventure is as unique as a shooting star’s path. In a universe where neurodivergent siblings light up the sky, these neurotypical stars find their own constellations to navigate. Feelings, Front, and Center Emotions, ahoy! Neurotypical siblings sail through […]
Managing Meltdowns: Strategies For Calming Your Child
A world of adventure, where emotions run wild and unexpected twists await! Welcome to the realm of managing meltdowns, a challenge that almost all parents face on the journey of nurturing their neurodivergent child. Fear not, for with a dash of strategy and a sprinkle of patience, you can navigate these stormy seas and emerge […]