At Life Skills Advocate, we're all about building independence. Find articles about real-life skills, moving into adulthood, and planning for the future.
If you are Googling “can you develop ADHD as an adult,” you probably already know what the medical sites will say. They will say no. Then they will say “but it can be identified later in life,” which sort of feels like a non-answer if your focus seems to have fallen apart at 34 in … read more
“High functioning ADHD” is one of the most contested phrases in adult ADHD conversation right now, and the fight over it is not academic. It is a phrase that validates a lot of people the moment they hear it and frustrates a lot of other people for the same reason. Both reactions are tracking something … read more
If you have spent any time around autism content, you have probably been told that autistic people lack empathy. The line is repeated in textbooks, parenting forums, and HR trainings. It is also wrong, in a way that has cost a lot of people a lot of years. The double empathy problem is the reframe. … read more
Research shows that our ability to manage thoughts, emotions, and behavior, known as executive functioning, can be strengthened through simple mindfulness practices. Mindfulness, a practice rooted in ancient traditions and adapted for modern psychology and education, can help strengthen cognitive skills. By cultivating present-moment awareness and nonjudgmental acceptance of thoughts and emotions, mindfulness can improve … read more
What if improving your executive functioning can start with taking better care of yourself? Executive functioning skills such as cognitive flexibility, self-monitoring, and planning are important for starting and maintaining healthy habits. Daily routines that include sleep, nutrition, mindfulness, movement, and social support can strengthen cognitive functioning, emotional regulation, and goal-directed behavior. In this article, … read more
As a service provider and parent coach, I don’t go many sessions without mentioning how important consistency is for neurodivergent learners. It’s one of my most popular (and potent) strategies for parents, teachers, and family members – but it’s often the one that gets brushed aside. Let’s be honest—consistency is not always glamorous. It’s not … read more
Unrealistically high, low, and unclear expectations set learners up for disappointment. Over time, unattainable expectations can chip away at self-esteem and increase stress for neurodivergent learners, who already face higher stress on average. Learning how to find the “sweet spot” between challenging and achievable work is essential for well-being and long-term growth. This article will … read more
Being a teen is hard enough. For neurodivergent teens, the weight of feeling “different” can intensify stress, isolation, and self-doubt. Have you ever heard a student say, “No one understands me,” or a teen wonder why they cannot seem to fit in, no matter how hard they try? These moments highlight the emotional toll of … read more
A student who forgets homework, blurts out in class, or struggles to begin assignments may be seen as careless or disruptive. These behaviors often reflect executive functioning (EF) challenges, the mental skills that help us plan, organize, focus, and regulate emotions. Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a popular framework in schools that promotes … read more
For neurodivergent teens and young adults, social communication is more than learning what to say. It also means understanding how and why we share information. One strategy gaining attention among educators, families, and practitioners is declarative language: a communication style adults can use when supporting neurodivergent learners that emphasizes shared observations, thoughts, and experiences rather … read more