In this first episode of a three-part series, we begin an honest conversation about ADHD, DMDD, autism, anxiety, sensory needs, church hurt, painful church experiences, and the hope of creating more understanding inside faith communities. Church is supposed to be a place of hope, grace, encouragement, and belonging. But for many families parenting neurodivergent or emotionally dysregulated children, Sunday morning can feel like one of the hardest parts of the week. 

Many families come to church looking for support, but instead feel watched, judged, misunderstood, or alone when their child struggles with loud worship music, uncomfortable clothes, sitting still, children’s ministry, transitions, or social expectations. This episode is for parents who need to feel seen and for churches that want to listen, learn, and make room.

In this episode, we talk about:

•  Why Sunday morning can be so hard for neurodivergent children and families, even when faith and church matter deeply 
•  How painful church experiences can feel especially tender when families expected grace, support, and belonging 
•  Why behavior is communication, even at church, and what children may be telling us through meltdowns, refusal, anxiety, sensory overwhelm, or dysregulation 
•  How parents and churches can begin moving from judgment to curiosity, from hurt to conversation, and from isolation to hope 

You’ll also hear a powerful post from Maggie Diemer, one of our summit panel speakers and a mom attending the Calm in the Chaos Mom’s Retreat, about what happens when a child does not fit the “church box” and why maybe the box needs to change.

For free resources, coaching information, and support for parenting kids with big emotions, challenging behaviors, and unique needs, visit calmconnectionparenting.org.

I recorded this episode twice, and both times, the thunder interrupted! LOL! I guess we will just think that was the heavens moving on our behalf! LOL!

Send a text and share your thoughts!

• Take Your Next Step:  Emotional Forecast Quiz
• Visit CalmConnectionParenting.org to become an insider and receive weekly news. Find information about the coaching program (and scholarships), free parenting resources, and how we can connect.

*Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified professional for individual support.

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