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How self-determination theory can help when your child is recovering from autistic burnout – part 1
At first glance, self-determination theory (SDT) might seem like an abstract academic concept. Yet it offers powerful insights into autistic burnout and recovery. Discover how supporting autonomy, competence, and relatedness can help create the conditions your child needs to recover and thrive.
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SEND reform: the gap between policy and reality
An exploration of the widening gap between SEND policy and the lived realities of children, families, and schools. While reform promises inclusion and support, many young people continue to face unmet needs, inaccessible education, delayed support, and systems struggling under increasing pressure.
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Supporting the child behind the mask – a mother’s perspective
A mother reflects on supporting her child’s internalised presentation of autism beyond the compliant mask seen at school. Through nuanced, compassionate care, she explores the hidden cost of masking, sensory overwhelm, anxiety, and meltdowns – and the deep understanding needed to support the child behind the mask.
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Sleep difficulties when a child or young person is experiencing autistic burnout
Sleep can become unpredictable during autistic burnout, with children awake at night or sleeping for long stretches. These changes reflect a stressed nervous system, not behaviour to fix. Reducing demands and prioritising safety and rest is key, allowing sleep patterns to gradually improve as your child recovers.
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Parental guilt when your child or young person is experiencing burnout
Parental guilt can feel overwhelming when your child is experiencing autistic burnout. This post explores why recognising burnout takes time, how systems can deepen doubt, and why letting go of guilt matters – so you can focus your energy on understanding, supporting, and responding to your child’s needs now.
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What to do when your young person is struggling with oral hygiene in burnout
During burnout, a young person may find that everyday self-care tasks, like brushing their teeth, feel impossible. This guide offers gentle, low-demand oral hygiene tips and alternatives to help protect dental health while reducing stress, sensory overwhelm, and pressure.
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“You can’t pour from an empty cup” – A self-care guide for parents of children and young people in burnout
Supporting a child in burnout is exhausting, but self-care isn’t selfish – it’s essential. This guide helps parent-carers find realistic, small ways to recharge, set boundaries, and seek support, so they can better care for both themselves and their children. Even small moments of rest can make a difference.
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Glimmers, green shoots and breakthroughs in burnout recovery
In burnout recovery, “glimmers” and “green shoots” are the small yet powerful moments that signal progress and hope. These fleeting signs remind us that healing is possible, even if the journey is slow.
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BURNOUT: A choose-your-adventure story where adults make the choices
Imagine that young people must travel through the wilderness to reach their destination – ADULTHOOD. During their adventure, they can only communicate with adults through a walkie-talkie. Some young people must face the challenge of traversing Peak Stress. Will their adults guide them well or allow them to fall into the Abyss of Burnout?
Autistic Burnout - Family Stories 