What does it really mean to raise a “happy” neurodivergent child and how can parents redefine success when school, systems, and stigma make that feel impossible?
In this episode of All Aboard ADHD, Claire is joined by Jessie Hewitson, multi-talented journalist, author, and mum of two autistic and ADHD children. Jessie is the author of ADHD: How to Raise a Happy ADHD Child - and - Autism: How to Raise a Happy Autistic Child. She is also the Contributing Money Editor at The i Paper, where she writes the weekly column Ask Jessie.
Jessie shares her deeply personal journey of parenting two neurodivergent children, leading to discovering her own ADHD and autism diagnosis later in life. Her story is one of honesty, learning, and compassion, as she reflects on the guilt, growth, and constant adaptation that comes with raising children who don’t fit the system’s mold.
Together, Claire and Jessie discuss:
The challenges of recognising ADHD and autism early on, and how stigma and misinformation can delay diagnosis
Why “late understanding” doesn’t make you a bad parent and the emotional process of unlearning what you thought you knew
How guilt and self-doubt show up for neurodivergent parents, and why compassion and curiosity matter more than perfection
What can happen when children experience burnout and can no longer cope in mainstream school
The importance of flexible, relationship-based learning and what “low-demand parenting” really looks like in practice
How Non-Violent Resistance (NVR) parenting can help families de-escalate and reconnect during difficult moments
The real meaning of raising a “happy” neurodivergent child: helping them understand themselves, recognise their challenges, and give themselves permission to rest and ask for help
Whether you’re at the start of your journey, deep in the chaos, or navigating life after diagnosis, this episode is full of raw honesty, validation, and hope. Jessie’s perspective reminds us that success often looks different, and that the smallest moments of connection can be the biggest signs of progress.
Further resources and links:
Jessie’s books: ADHD: How to Raise a Happy ADHD Child and Autism: How to Raise a Happy Autistic Child
Check out Jessie’s article about Screen Time in The Standard: https://www.standard.co.uk/lifestyle/screen-time-children-parenting-adhd-autism-b1232099.html
Check out Jessie’s weekly Ask Jessie column in The i Paper https://inews.co.uk/author/jessie-hewitson
Follow Jessie on social media: @jessiehewitson
ADHD coaching and resources from Claire: https://allaboardadhd.com
The views shared in this episode are those of the guest, based on their professional expertise and personal experience. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, educational, or psychological advice. Please consult a qualified professional for personalised support relevant to your individual circumstances.
