aParently! A Conversation about Neurodivergent Parenting

About this episode

This episode explores neurodivergent parenting with insights from parent coach Shawn Hopkins and guest Mandy Casteel-Denney.

What is neurodivergence, really, and how do we parent well when a child’s brain works differently? In this episode of aParently! A Conversation Between Parents, parent coach Shawn Hopkins talks with Mandy Casteel-Denney, founder of Blue Tulip Inclusive Education, educator, parent coach, and mom of two neurodivergent kids. Shawn comes in with honest curiosity and a desire to learn, and Mandy brings both lived experience and professional insight. Together they explore what neurodivergence is, common misunderstandings, why parental burnout and isolation are so common, and what real support can look like at home, in school, and in public. You will also hear a practical, compassionate breakdown of the difference between a tantrum and a meltdown, and how a simple shift in how we interpret behavior can change everything for a child and their parent. Mandy also shares Outside the Lines, an outdoor, small-group experience designed to help neurodivergent tweens build connection in a low-pressure, more natural setting. If you know a parent who would feel seen by this conversation, please share it. Schedule your free coaching session at www.shawnhop.com. If you would like to connect with…

People in this episode

Host: Shawn Hopkins

Guest: Mandy Casteel-Denney

Topics covered

• neurodivergence
• parenting
• parental burnout
• support for neurodivergent children
• behavior interpretation

Keywords

• neurodivergence
• parenting
• tantrum vs meltdown
• parental burnout
• support systems

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Blue Tulip Inclusive Education

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