My family life day to day - we’ll be looking at the challenges of home life for those navigating neurodiversity.

Many of us will take for granted the challenges of living in a house full of sounds and smells, full of fun but also danger. Such challenges can mean strained relationships, fraught meal times and an often difficult environment to be in. But does it have to be that way? Are there small changes we can make that will drastically improve life at home for you and your family?

Home life for a family encountering autism may not, like the neurological condition, be all that typical.

Some parents/carers may also need to look at residential care for their child. A reality many wish they had never had to consider, it can often be a real turning point for many families, bringing new levels of contentment for everyone.

Here at NEAS we are passionate about providing beautiful, small houses for people who need an enhanced level of care so a happy, full, ‘normal’ life can be enjoyed.

Our aim is to not only raise awareness and educate those around us on what life is like from the point of view of the person experiencing the world in a different way, but to also equip and inspire you on your own autism journey.

If home is where the heart is – let’s make sure our hearts are healthy!

In the below interview Michelle and Kieran Rose discuss home life and day to day situations. Writer and autism activist, Kieran, is himself autistic, their eldest son, Quinn (8) also has a diagnosis of autism and of the couple’s other two children, one is in the diagnostic process. This is their full interview for World Autism Awareness Week.

Below is some help and advice from Dr Helen Leonard, Paediatric Neurodisability Specialist and is a consultant at the Great North Children's Hospital in Newcastle.

Autism and eating challenges

Autism and toilet training

For advice and support on issues with home life please contact Kerrie Highcock, Family Development Manager on 0191 410 9974 or by email [email protected]