Mother's Day is a special day to celebrate and honour mothers and mother figures in our lives. For many, it is a day to show gratitude for the love and care that they provide all year round. However, for mothers of children who are neurodivergent, this day can be a bit more challenging.

Neurodivergent children may have different needs and ways of expressing themselves. They may have sensory sensitivities, difficulties with communication or social interactions, and may struggle with changes to their routine. As a result, traditional Mother's Day activities may not always be enjoyable or feasible for them. But with some thoughtful planning and creativity, Mother's Day can still be a special and meaningful day for all involved.

Here are some ideas on how to make Mother's Day special for neurodivergent children and their mothers:

1. Plan ahead and prepare for changes to the routine

Many neurodivergent children thrive on routine and predictability. So, if you're planning a special Mother's Day activity, it's important to prepare your child in advance for any changes to their routine. You can do this by using visual aids such as social stories, picture schedules or visual calendars to help your child understand what to expect.

2. Create a sensory-friendly environment

Sensory sensitivities can be a big challenge for neurodivergent children. So, when planning a Mother's Day activity, it's important to create a sensory-friendly environment. This could include turning down the volume on music, avoiding strong smells or bright lights, and providing a quiet space for your child to retreat to if they become overwhelmed.

3. Choose activities that your child enjoys

Instead of planning activities that are traditional or expected, focus on activities that your child enjoys. This could be anything from playing a favorite game, creating art together or going on a nature walk. By focusing on your child's interests, you'll create a more enjoyable experience for both of you.

4. Involve your child in planning

Giving your child a role in planning Mother's Day activities can help them feel more invested and excited about the day. You can involve them in choosing a special activity, making a card or gift, or planning a special meal. This not only helps your child feel included but also gives them an opportunity to practice their planning and organizational skills.

5. Make a sensory-based gift

Many neurodivergent children enjoy sensory-based activities. Creating a sensory-based gift for your child to give to you can be a fun and meaningful activity. You could make a sensory jar filled with different textures, colours, and objects, or create a sensory-friendly piece of jewelry. By making a sensory-based gift, you're not only creating a special Mother's Day memory but also providing your child with an opportunity to engage in a sensory-rich activity.

6. Have a relaxing day at home

Sometimes the best Mother's Day celebration can be a simple day at home, relaxing with your child. This could involve reading books together, watching a movie, or doing a puzzle. By spending quality time together, you'll create a special memory that you'll both cherish.

7. Celebrate in a way that's meaningful to you

Ultimately, the best way to make Mother's Day special is to celebrate it in a way that's meaningful to you and your child. Whether that means doing something traditional or creating your own unique celebration, the most important thing is that you're spending time together and enjoying each other's company.

Mother's Day can be a special and meaningful day for neurodivergent children and their mothers. By planning, creating a sensory-friendly environment, involving your child in planning, and focusing on activities that your child enjoys, you'll create a special memory that you'll both cherish. So, this Mother's Day, consider these tips to create a memorable and enjoyable experience for you and your child. Remember to be flexible and adjust your plans as needed to accommodate your child's needs and preferences. By doing so, you'll ensure that Mother's Day is a day of love and celebration that is truly special for both of you.

It's also important to remember that not all mothers have neurodivergent children, and not all neurodivergent children have mothers. Mother's Day can be a difficult day for those who have lost their mother or for those who don't have a mother figure in their lives. It's important to be sensitive to this and to offer support and understanding to those who may be struggling.

Furthermore, it's important to recognize that neurodiversity is a natural variation of the human experience. It's not a disorder or a problem that needs to be fixed. As a society, we should celebrate and embrace neurodiversity, and provide support and accommodations to ensure that everyone can participate fully in all aspects of life.

Conclusion

Mother's Day is a special day to celebrate and honour mothers and mother figures. For mothers of neurodivergent children, it's important to plan, create a sensory-friendly environment, involve your child in planning, and focus on activities that your child enjoys making the day special and enjoyable for both of you. By doing so, you'll create a special memory that you'll both cherish for years to come. Let's celebrate and embrace neurodiversity and ensure that everyone can participate fully in all aspects of life.

Resources

1. Autistic Mama - https://autisticmama.com

This website is run by an autistic mom and provides resources and support for parents of autistic children. They have a blog, podcast, and online community.

2. Understood - https://www.understood.org/

This website provides resources and support for parents of children with learning and attention issues. They have articles, videos, and a community forum.

3. Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation - https://www.spdstar.org/

This website provides information and resources on sensory processing disorders, including articles, videos, and a directory of professionals.

4. The Mighty - https://themighty.com/

This website is a community of people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, and mental health conditions. They have articles, personal stories, and a community forum.

5. Special Books by Special Kids - https://www.youtube.com/c/Specialbooksbyspecialkids

This YouTube channel features interviews with neurodivergent individuals and their families, providing a unique and personal perspective on neurodiversity.

6. The National Autistic Society - https://www.autism.org.uk/

This UK-based organization provides information, resources, and support for individuals with autism and their families. They have a helpline, an online forum, and a directory of local support groups.

7. The Autism Community in Action (TACA) - https://tacanow.org/

This organization provides support and resources for families affected by autism, including information on biomedical interventions and alternative therapies.

Making Mother's Day Special: Resources for Neurodivergent Families