Page 25 - FWG Issue 1 February 2024

Lifestyle

Says Jo, “When our son arrived, signs of “If somebody isn’t getting it, it’s not you. to build themselves up.
sensory issues emerged around two-and- It’s them. Always believe in your child.
a-half years. Meltdowns and intensified If you believe in them and show them – Jo and Nicola acknowledge there is no
sensory challenges followed. After joining teach them that they’re capable – you’re single recipe for success, given each child’s
support groups and seeking professional going to create somebody who is very uniqueness. While neurodiverse children
advice, our son was diagnosed with autism resilient and motivated and will ultimately can face challenges in life, in school and
around age 4. surprise you and many others.” social situations, parents and educators can
help them overcome barriers and thrive.
“We faced conflicts about mainstream Jo adds, “You begin life with expectations
versus remedial education, and the journey – like you’re going to get married, have Many neurodiverse people have made a
included homeschooling during the kids – and it’s all in this perfect little profound impact on the world. Director Tim
pandemic. Eventually, we found a supportive box. Then life really hits you, and it turns Burton, tech pioneer Steve Jobs and fellow
environment at Education Incorporated, out messy. But the messy parts are the Silicon Valley billionaire Bill Gates, are
where he felt comfortable and chose to stay beautiful parts. Messy is where you grow among the neurodivergent changemakers
back a year for his wellbeing.” and learn, and change is inevitable. who have achieved success far beyond
anything most ‘normal’ people ever will.
My conversation with Nicola and Jo “I was recently asked in an interview who I
highlighted how crucial it is for every child to look up to. I responded that, quite literally, Being different should be a source of
be seen – to be respected – not despite who I don’t look up; I look down because pride, never shame. As Nicola and Jo have
they are, but because of it. Nicola explains, I’m taller than him. I look up to my son proved, with early intervention, consistent
“Don’t underestimate your child. If you start because he has taught me so much.” therapy, being a tireless advocate for your
with a mindset that your child is incapable, child, finding other parents to connect
that’s exactly what they will be. I have had As social entrepreneur Vivienne Schultz with, and having no expectations except
teachers who have said James is incapable, said, “We are all under construction,” but giving your child the tools they need to
and this was often when the child was we need the right building blocks to become the person they want to be, they
sitting in the room listening. I always tell my progress with our journeys. As educators can become functional, highly successful
son, ‘Whatever it is, it’s not your fault. It’s the and parents, it falls to us to give our human beings – and it is our privilege to
teacher who doesn’t understand you.’” children the bricks and mortar they need educate them.

If you would like to hear the podcast, follow this link: https://iono.fm/e/1381962

Fourways Gardens • 23 • February 2024