Your host Valerie shares about building a deeper connection with her teen while commuting!

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Welcome & Thank You:
A heartfelt thank you to all our dedicated listeners! 

Episode Highlights:
Your host Valerie shares a personal story about returning to the office after working from home for some time. But the real heart of this episode is about how this change has deepened her relationship with her neurodivergent young adult, August. She reflects on the sacrifices made and how a simple 25-minute commute twice a day has become a precious opportunity to build trust and foster open communication. 

Key Takeaways:

1. The Importance of Adaptability:
   Coach Valerie’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes life changes we initially resist can lead to unexpected blessings, like more time spent together.
2. Active Listening & Communication Strategies:
   Valerie shares five strategies she’s adopted to nurture a healthier parent-child relationship, including active listening, offering praise and encouragement, using open-ended questions, modeling positive behavior, and engaging in collaborative problem-solving.
3. Understanding & Acceptance:
   One of the most powerful lessons in this episode is about accepting neurodivergence not as something “wrong” but as something beautifully different. Valerie opens up about the guilt and regrets she experienced before she had a better understanding of her child’s needs.
4. Building Trust & Breaking Patterns:
   Trust and connection don’t happen overnight—they’re built slowly through small, consistent actions and moments of presence. Learn how a car ride turned into a space of deeper understanding and appreciation.

Top Quote: "Different is not wrong or bad, it’s just different. Wouldn’t the world be a sad place if we all thought and operated the same?"

Practical Strategies for Parents of Neurodivergent Teens:

1. Active Listening
   Be fully present when your child is speaking. Validate their emotions and thoughts without judgment or trying to fix things.
2. Praise and Encouragement
   Recognize their efforts and achievements often. Neurodivergent teens might need more affirmation than you think.
3. Use Open-Ended Questions
   Shift from suggesting what your child “should” do to asking thoughtful questions that encourage critical thinking.
4. Model Positive Behavior
   Be mindful that your child is observing you even when you think they’re not. Look for natural mentorship moments.
5. Collaborative Problem Solving
   Instead of dictating solutions, involve your child in the decision-making process. It builds confidence and trust.

Final Thoughts:
Remember, this journey is not about being a perfect parent—it’s about being present, compassionate, and willing to learn. We’re all a work in progress, and together, we can navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories.

Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey

Connect:

Valerie's Links: https://bit.ly/3RL0da2

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX   (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/