Kate Morris and Dave Whittingham delve into the concept of the energy bank in this enlightening episode, exploring what fuels children's energy and what depletes it. They introduce the spoon theory, a metaphor illustrating how individuals have varying amounts of energy represented by spoons, which can be spent throughout the day on various activities. Kate shares insights about this system from her research and many interviews, highlighting how understanding energy levels can help parents support their neurodivergent children more effectively. The duo discusses the importance of recognizing the unique energy expenditures of each child, emphasizing that tasks that restore energy for one may drain it for another. With practical tips and relatable anecdotes, they encourage parents to observe and engage with their children, fostering a collaborative environment that honors each child’s needs and energy levels.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, they discuss the concept of energy management for neurodivergent children, emphasizing how understanding energy input and output can improve their daily life.
• They introduce the spoon theory as a metaphor for measuring energy levels, explaining that everyone has a different number of spoons to spend each day based on various factors.
• Kate and Dave highlight the importance of recognizing what activities drain energy and which ones replenish it, fostering a better understanding among parents and children.
• They encourage parents to have conversations with their children about their energy levels, helping them identify what costs spoons and what can help refill them effectively.
• The episode stresses that neurodivergent individuals may experience energy depletion differently than neurotypical individuals, making it crucial to tailor support to each child's unique needs.
• Finally, they suggest practical strategies for replenishing energy, such as physical activities and sensory experiences, to help children manage their energy better throughout the day.

Visit our website at https://www.faithfulgod.net/show/neurodivergence-family-and-faith/

To read helpful articles from Kate, head to her Substack page, An Extraordinary Normal

This podcast is a part of the Faithful God Network. Discover more great podcasts at faithfulgod.net

The idea of energy accounting was pioneered by Maya Toudal and Professor Tony Attwood. It's a valuable concept that delves deeper than the Spoon Theory. In this video, Prof. Attwood dives into a detailed method of keeping track of energy. Look up on Youtube ‘Ask Dr Tony – February 2022’ (from 27 minutes for energy accounting).

For the perspectives of two adults on the usefulness of Spoon Theory, see Podcast 1800 Seconds on Autism, Episode “Turn Down the Studio Lights”, BBC, November 2018.

Exhaustion for neurodivergent people: L Hull, W Mandy, MC Lai, S Baron-Cohen, C Allison, P Smith and KV Petrides, ‘Development and validation of the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire (CAT-Q)’, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2019, 49(3):819–833, doi:10.1007/s10803-018-3792-6.

Energy and energy expenditure: Raymaker, D. M., Teo, A. R., Steckler, N. A., Lentz, B., Scharer, M., Delos Santos, A., Nicolaidis, C. (2020). ‘“Having all of your internal resources exhausted beyond measure and being left with no clean-up crew”: defining autistic burnout’, Autism in Adulthood, 2(2), 1-12, doi: 10.1089/aut.2019.0079

For understanding the realities of the energy bank for many neurodivergent people, see: T...

Today, we’re diving into wonderful world of God’s comfort for parents of neurodivergent kids. We’ve all felt that overwhelming mix of joy and challenge that comes with raising children who see the world a bit differently, and we’re here to explore how faith plays a huge role in that journey. Kate and Dave will share their insights on how God knows and loves our kids and us, meaning we're never alone as we navigate this path.

Takeaways:

• In our first episode, we explore how God's comfort can guide parents of neurodivergent kids, offering reassurance and support.
• We discuss the importance of community and how neurodivergence can enrich our understanding of God's creation, enjoying the benefits of differences.
• Kate and Dave share their personal journeys as parents of neurodivergent children, emphasizing the need for practical tips and biblical perspectives in navigating challenges.
• The episode highlights Psalm 139 to remind us that God knows our children intimately, which brings comfort in our parenting journey.
• We also look at 1 Corinthians 12 to discover that difference is at the core of how Christ is building his church.
• We dive into the significance of language in discussing neurodivergence, acknowledging that terms evolve and it's crucial to show grace as we speak and listen.
• Next week, we’ll tackle ‘Spoon Theory’ and how understanding energy management is vital for supporting neurodivergent children and maintaining our own well-being.

Visit our website at https://www.faithfulgod.net/show/neurodivergence-family-and-faith/

To read helpful articles from Kate, head to her Substack page, An Extraordinary Normal

This podcast is a part of the Faithful God Network. Discover more great podcasts at faithfulgod.net

The Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved.

Neurodivergence, Family and Faith is a podcast for Christian parents raising neurodivergent kids, and for the churches and friends who walk alongside them. Each episode offers practical tools, grounded in research and shaped by the wisdom of the Bible.

Hosts Kate Morris and Dave Whittingham draw on their backgrounds in theology, education, and ministry, as well as the experiences of their families. Both are parents of neurodivergent kids; Dave is neurodivergent himself, and Kate has completed further study in neurodivergence. Together, they bring both understanding and expertise as they explore topics like managing energy, navigating sensory differences, and finding joy and belonging in church and family life.

Whether you’re doing the dishes, chasing the kids, or catching a quiet moment, this podcast offers comfort, encouragement, and guidance to help your family thrive for God’s glory.