Understanding PDA Triggers and Low Demand Parenting

Jessie is an award-winning journalist, bestselling author, and one of the UK's leading voices on neurodiversity, parenting, and education. She is the author of   and Autism:  and currently serves as the SEND agony aunt for The Times and The Sunday Times, where she answers readers' questions on special educational needs and neurodiversity.

Drawing on both extensive research and lived experience as a neurodivergent parent, Jessie has helped thousands of families better understand autism and ADHD through a compassionate, strengths-based lens.

In this eye-opening conversation, Jessie explores neurodiversity, PDA, (Pathological Demand Avoidance) anxiety, low-demand parenting, revealing how understanding a child's unique brain can transform family life. Discover practical strategies that help neurodivergent children thrive through empathy, connection, and support.

You’ll discover:

• The powerful role of love as understanding, and why this simple act is at the heart of meaningful support.

• How neurodivergence often goes unnoticed, especially in girls, because of societal stereotypes and narrow definitions.

• The differences between autism, ADHD, and PDA, and why awareness of these distinctions can radically change parenting and educational approaches.

• Concrete tactics for reducing anxiety in children, including validation techniques and the importance of tailored environments.

• Why resilience isn't about toughening kids up but fostering genuine self-esteem, self-awareness, and independence.

With stories from parents navigating diagnosis, schools, and everyday life, Jessie underscores the critical importance of relationship-based support and mental health awareness. This episode isn’t just for parents; it's a vital resource for educators, clinicians, and anyone committed to creating environments where neurodivergent individuals can thrive.

Help build a world where every neurodivergent voice is understood and valued.

As Jessie says, "Love is taking the time to understand someone."