Neurodivergent needs-arkiv

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Preface

It’s not always the big adventures that stay in your heart – sometimes it’s just a day filled with presence, swimming, cinnamon buns and conversation. And sometimes, it’s in the reflection afterward that we truly see what our children need.

A Day to Keep in My Heart

I’m sitting on the sofa with my morning coffee. Yesterday, I didn’t write a post – but for a good reason. The whole day was filled with joy and togetherness.

We were up before seven, ready to meet my little brother and his family for breakfast at Coop. Not a hotel buffet, but close – scrambled eggs, bacon, fresh rolls, yogurt, cereals, juice. We met at 8:00 and enjoyed the morning together. After that, some quick shopping – snacks, drinks, cookies.

Then we drove to Lanesund, our favorite beach. We spent four or five hours there. The kids, especially my boy and my niece, swam almost the entire time. Only surfacing to eat a bun or a waffle – then straight back into the water. It was summer at its best.

After the beach, we grabbed some food at McDonald’s. Later that evening, they came to our house again – bringing fruit salad, chips, and a bit of rosé wine. It was too warm on the patio, so we moved to the front side, where the hammock hangs in the shade. We talked for hours. The kids came out for fruit salad and chips now and then.

The Computer – A Place for Recovery

This morning, I realize what a valuable day it was. My boy said he had a “great day.” He didn’t even miss his computer – and that says a lot. From morning till night, he was fully present in play and connection.

But in the evening, he needed to unplug. To enter his game world. Their daughter didn’t enjoy that part, but we saw it differently. For us, it’s his way of resting.

In our home, we’ve always seen computer games as more than just screen time. It’s a way to pause. For some children – especially those with ADHD – it’s a safe space. In the game, they’re in control. They decide the pace, the story, the limits. And when it gets too much – one click, and it all stops.

Real life doesn’t offer that. Input comes without a pause button. Expectations pile up. So being able to retreat into one’s own space, even for a while – that matters.

Today’s Plan

Today will be a slower day. We’ll pack the motorhome, do a bit of gardening, some laundry. For dinner: pancakes with ice cream and jam. Too hot for anything else.

What do you think?

– How do you see screen time and recovery for kids?
– Do you need to “retreat into your bubble” sometimes?
– Can computers be a shield, not just a distraction?

Reflection

Understanding our children’s needs is a journey. Sometimes they need play and sun – sometimes a quiet world behind a screen. Both are real. Both are important.

Live today and act today.
Yesterday is history and may hold dear memories.
Tomorrow won’t arrive until tomorrow –
and it might carry emotions born from today, from right now.
Yesterday has left its marks on this day,
in the shape of memories.

– Carina Ikonen Nilsson

A little callout

Just a small spotlight on my neighbor’s YouTube channel – where she creates educational videos for young children.
Click the image or this link to explore a collection of short films designed to help little ones understand life, emotions, and the world around them.