If you’re raising a neurodivergent teen, you might not feel like an “expert” in anything.
You might feel like you’re barely holding it together some days — navigating school emails, therapy waitlists, meltdowns, and late-night worry spirals.

But here’s the truth:
Every single day, you’re running an advanced course in advocacy.

Because feeding them shouldn’t feel like just another battle.

Meal planning as a parent is already a juggling act. But when you're raising a neurodivergent child—especially one with sensory sensitivities, limited food preferences, or appetite changes from medication—mealtimes can feel like the hardest part of the day.

I’ve had to throw out more uneaten meals than I care to admit. What worked one week suddenly “tastes weird” the next. Some days, he eats two bites and is done. Other days, it’s non-stop grazing. Sound familiar?

If you're in the same boat, you're not alone—and there are ways to bring a little more ease into the chaos.

Because the first week back is hard — for both of us.

The first week back at school is never easy. But when you’re parenting a neurodivergent teen, it can feel like walking a tightrope — hoping you’ve done enough, packed the right lunch, and remembered all the supports they’ll need when the overwhelm hits.

We’re feeling it this week. The nerves, the resistance, the tension in the air.

I used to think I had to choose between a clean house and a connected home. That if I couldn’t keep up with laundry, dishes, and dust bunnies, I was somehow failing. That belief? I’ve let it go. (Okay — I’m trying to let it go.)

Because here's the truth: I live with a teenager who has ADHD and anxiety. And while some people have tidy houses with well-labeled storage bins, I have a kitchen table covered in unfinished puzzles, fidget toys, and a few abandoned cups. I have half-folded laundry on the couch, shoes in the hallway, and a living room that doubles as a crash pad when emotions get too big.

It’s not Instagram-perfect. But it’s real. And it’s ours.

I never thought I'd be the mom planning a tropical getaway. But here we are—getting ready to take my teen on his first real trip for his birthday next year. It'll be an all-inclusive resort somewhere warm (still narrowing down the country), and it’s going to be a lot of firsts for both of us.

First time flying.
First time out of the country.
First time trying to relax while managing anxiety, sensory overload, and a kid who eats about five things total.

So yes, I’m excited. But also? I’m planning the heck out of it—because I want this trip to be a win for both of us.