Lately, there's been a lot of talk in the media about why more children are being diagnosed as neurodivergent. And as a parent of two amazing neurodiverse kids, I just want to offer a perspective from someone living it every single day — not from a podium, not from a textbook, but from real-life moments of joy, struggle, and fierce love.
Here’s what I know to be true:
Neurodivergence isn’t new. What’s new is the growing awareness. We’re getting better at noticing the kids who feel things more deeply. The ones who fidget, who struggle with transitions, who melt down because the seams in their shirt just feel wrong. We’re starting to listen instead of labeling. And that’s a very good thing.
There’s no one-size-fits-all explanation for why kids are the way they are. And honestly, I don’t think we need to explain it — we need to support it. Our kids aren’t problems to be solved. They’re whole people to be understood.
Blaming parents or chasing some “cause” for why more kids are being diagnosed misses the bigger picture: we’re finally paying attention. We’re recognizing the unique ways kids experience the world, and we’re learning how to meet them where they are.
That’s why I started Parker & Talia. I was tired of clothes that made my kids cry. I wanted them to be able to get dressed without a battle. To feel good in their skin — and in their socks. And when I realized other families were dealing with the same daily struggles, I knew I had to share what was working for us.
So, this blog post? It’s not here to argue with headlines. It’s here to say:
💛 You didn’t do anything wrong.
💛 Your child is not broken.
💛 And you are doing a better job than you think.
There’s no shame in having a child who processes the world differently. There’s beauty in it. And it’s our job as parents — and as a community — to make space for that beauty to shine.
If you’re looking for truly sensory-friendly clothes made by a fellow parent who gets it, check out our latest collection here. Everything we create is tag-free, has no exposed seams, super soft, and built with love — Because we’re right there with you, raising sensory kids, learning every day.
With love and so much solidarity,
Valerie
Parent. Advocate. Founder of Parker & Talia.
1 comment
Thank you so much for all the encouragement. It is hard to find clothes that’s not itchy, or tight, or seams hurt. My great granddaughter is smart and funny. She’s my joy. It’s not easy some days. Yes, this issue has been around for a long time. I take care of her most of the time. All I can do is love her for who she is, and encourage. Again thank you.