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Australian Broadcasting Corporation
From school avoidance to food anxieties: navigating neurodiverse parenting
From school avoidance to food anxieties: navigating neurodiverse parenting
From school avoidance to food anxieties: navigating neurodiverse parenting
Saturday 18th October 2025
Explore neurodiverse parenting with Sarah Hayden as she shares insights on autism, school refusal, and food aversions.
30 minutes
Inspiring
Informative
Hopeful
Compassionate
Authentic
About this podcast
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ABC Radio
Overview:
Categories:
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindful Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Parenting & Children
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Get the buttons here!Parenting Neurodiverse Kids: Lessons from Sarah Hayden
Episode Overview
- Understanding autism requires breaking down media stereotypes.
- Creating supportive school environments is crucial for neurodivergent children.
- Food aversions are common among autistic kids; patience is key.
- Equine-assisted therapy can offer unique benefits for autistic individuals.
- Success is about being healthy and happy, not fame or wealth.
"Normal is a setting on a washing machine, not a setting for a human."
What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? In this episode of 'All In The Mind', listeners are treated to an emotional journey with Sarah Hayden, mother of award-winning actress Chloe Hayden. Before Chloe's rise to fame, she faced a challenging childhood marked by school avoidance and food anxieties. Sarah, now a social worker and equine-assisted therapist, shares her family's story and provides invaluable advice for parents supporting neurodivergent children.
With a touch of humour and honesty, Sarah recounts her initial misconceptions about autism, influenced by media portrayals like 'Rain Man'. The episode takes a deep dive into the struggles Chloe faced, from sensory sensitivities to social isolation, and the transformative impact of her autism diagnosis. Sarah's candid reflections reveal the guilt she felt for not recognising Chloe's needs sooner. Yet, through their journey, Sarah found strength and purpose in helping other families navigate similar challenges.
Listeners will gain insights into practical strategies for supporting autistic children, such as creating accommodating school environments and understanding food aversions. Sarah also discusses the therapeutic power of equine-assisted therapy, which has been a source of healing for many children, including Chloe. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of embracing differences and redefining success.
As Sarah eloquently puts it, "Normal is a setting on a washing machine, not a setting for a human." Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about neurodiversity, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. How can we better support those who see the world differently?