Why parenting ADHD and autism feels impossible

You’re told to be consistent. Calm. Routine-based.

But what happens when your child needs routine and resists it?

They melt down over the wrong shirt, but can’t sit still long enough to finish breakfast.
They demand structure… then reject it.

You’ve tried charts. Scripts. Sensory tools. And still, it’s chaos.

Here’s what most people (even professionals) miss:
When ADHD and autism show up together in the same child, the usual tools stop working.

And without that key insight? Parents are left second-guessing everything—burnt out and blaming themselves.

→ This post breaks it down clearly—what’s really going on, and how to parent a child whose brain doesn’t fit one box.

You’ll see why:

• Rewards don’t land
• Routines unravel
• “Calm down” backfires

And why none of that means you’re failing.

In fact, many parents only realise what’s really going on when everything else stops working.

If parenting feels like you’re fighting two battles at once—this blog might explain why.​

And if it hits a little too close to home—if your child’s patterns feel eerily familiar—you might see yourself in this too.

Because sometimes, parenting differently starts with understanding yourself differently.

→ Click here to read the full post​

When you're ready, here are 3 ways ProActive Psychology can help:

1. We provide in-person and online therapy services, with applicable fees and rebates through Medicare Better Access and/or Private Health Insurance.
2. We are a registered provider of NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) ‘Therapeutic Supports’ services for children aged 7+ and adults.
3. ​Star4-Kids is a FREE psychological service offered for eligible children residing within the Southwestern Sydney Area who experience barriers to accessing traditional mental health services.

Nicole Robinson​ Principal and Clinical Psychologist, ProActive Psychology ​proactivepsychology.com.au​