"Autism, Emotional Regulation & Belonging "

#AutismAwareness #NeurodivergentTeens #SpecialEducation #ParentingTeens In this deeply personal and emotional WTF Friday episode of Parenting Teens Advice Redefined for Today’s World, Cheryl Pankhurst shares a powerful excerpt from the book Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection — a passion project focused on autism, belonging, and compassion. Drawing from more than 25 years as a Special Education Specialist, Cheryl opens up about the moment that completely transformed the way she understood neurodivergent teens, emotional regulation, school behaviour, and autism. This episode challenges the labels often placed on teens: “Manipulative” “Attention-seeking” “Defiant” “Avoidant” And instead asks a different question: What if they would… if they could? Through the unforgettable story of “Hank,” Cheryl shares what parents, educators, and school systems often miss when supporting autistic and neurodivergent students. From emotional dysregulation and sensory overwhelm to social misunderstandings and school exclusion, this conversation is a reminder that behaviour is communication — not character. In this episode, Cheryl discusses: Autism and emotional regulation in teens The difference between “won’t” and “can’t” Why invisible disabilities are often misunderstood The emotional toll on parents of neurodivergent kids School behaviour and compassion-based approaches Why belonging matters for every student Supporting autistic teens with dignity and respect How educators and families can shift from judgment to empathy This episode is for: Parents of autistic or neurodivergent teens Educators and school staff Families navigating IEPs and behavioural challenges Anyone who has ever loved, taught, or advocated for a child who struggles to belong One of the most powerful moments in the episode comes when Cheryl describes how one student explained emotional dysregulation: “A level five feels like a wall of flames right in front of my face.” This is more than a podcast episode. It’s a call for compassion, understanding, and systemic change. FREE Parent Resource Download Cheryl’s FREE Grade 8 to Grade 9 IEP Transition Quick Guide: Grade 8 to Grade 9 IEP Transition Parent Quick Guide YOUR GIFT- GUIDE FOR GRADE 8 TO GRADE 9 IEP TRANSITIONS https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/iep-h... Let’s Chat https://tidycal.com/cherylpankhurst/c... Connect with Cheryl! Get the book here! Daring to Belong: Autism Stories of Courage and Connection DIRECT LINK TO COACHING WITH CHERYL email : [email protected] Website cherylpankhurst.com SOCIALS: linkedin.com/in/l. R.cheryl-ann-pankhurst-1b611855   / cheryl.a.pankhurst     / cheryl.a.pankhurst   PODCAST- “PARENTING TEENS ADVICE REDEFINED FOR TODAY’S WORLD THE PODCAST https://open.spotify.com/show/4QwFMJM...    • Teen Minds Redefined   Optin-podcast subscriber https://www.cherylpankhurst.com/teen-...