Welcome to the Resources page of NeuroParentingHub. Soon, you’ll find a curated selection of tools, guides, and information that have been invaluable in my journey with James. This space is designed to offer practical support for parents, educators, and advocates navigating neurodiversity.
I’ll share downloadable guides, recommended reading, trusted organisations, and digital tools to assist with organisation, focus, and learning. While I’m still gathering resources, my goal is to provide practical tools for everyday life. Check back soon for updates, and reach out if you need something specific.
Parenting, especially with neurodiversity, brings unique challenges. Below, you’ll find books and websites offering practical, accessible guidance for South African families to help your child thrive.
The Unicorns in Our Journey
If you’ve followed our story, you’ll understand why this final step in our school journey is so meaningful to me. Having taught at one of South Africa’s few gifted institutions, I know that giftedness doesn’t always look like academic success.
In the right environment, gifted and neurodivergent kids don’t just get by—they thrive. Sadly, many 2E children are placed in remedial schools that don’t offer the enrichment they need. Education Incorporated excels by providing both enrichment and support tailored to each child.
James, who has severe dyslexia, faced many challenges in finding the right school. He didn’t start formal schooling until grade seven because most schools couldn’t cater to both his high cognitive ability and his challenges. Now, with the right technology and mentorship, he’s thriving—building independence and confidence.
At his school, support is part of everyday learning, so James never feels singled out. His mentorship sessions go beyond academics, fostering personal growth and emotional intelligence.
2E children often don’t fit into traditional school models. They have incredible intellectual abilities alongside challenges like dyslexia, ADHD, or autism, which requires a unique approach that most schools can’t provide.
Education Incorporated
Education Incorporated has been a true lifesaver for gifted and neurodivergent kids like James, who don’t fit into traditional boxes. The school’s personal approach, mentorship, and focus on emotional intelligence are unmatched. For James, it’s been the place where he can truly shine—where his strengths are celebrated and his challenges are supported. Here, he’s found a community that gets him and helps him grow academically and personally.
Gershom Aitchison
Gershom Aitchison has been a game-changer in James’s education. He has this amazing ability to challenge and support James in all the right ways, helping him to thrive. Gershom understands neurodiversity like few others do, and he’s used that knowledge to create learning experiences that nurture James’s intellect while helping him tackle his challenges head-on. Because of Gershom’s guidance, James has gained wisdom, self-confidence, and the independence he needs to succeed in school and life.
Jacqueline Aitchison
Jacqueline Aitchison is the heart of Education Incorporated. Her leadership is rooted in a deep understanding of education and psychology, and she brings a genuine care for every student. For James, Jacqueline has created an environment where he can flourish. She knows exactly how to balance encouragement with challenge, helping James grow in ways that have boosted his confidence and independence. Jacqueline’s influence has been a big part of why James thrives today, and I can’t recommend her enough.
Lauren Fischer
Wellness Counsellor and Postpartum Coach
Lauren Fischer is a dedicated wellness counsellor and holistic postpartum coach, focused on supporting families in achieving balance, connection, and harmony at home. With a thorough understanding of parents’ challenges, Lauren uses her background in counselling and psychology to empower parents, especially those raising children who don’t always fit into the typical mould.
Lauren holds a BA in Language Practice and Applied Social Sciences, majoring in Counselling and Psychology, from the South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP). She is also a registered wellness counsellor with the ASCHP and continues developing her expertise by working towards a certification in postpartum coaching. Her additional qualifications include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for children and creative interventions in family counselling.
As the creator of Harmony at Home, Lauren’s goal is to help families foster connection by observing with care and compassion to identify and resolve areas of disconnection. She believes that with the proper support, families can create a positive and connected environment for their children to thrive.
Whether you are looking for one-on-one sessions or to engage in her online community, Lauren is here to help guide you towards a more harmonious family life.
Shannon Byers and Out of the Box Academy
Shannon Byers founded Out of the Box Academy to create a school where every child is supported and encouraged to thrive. Inspired by her own struggles with dyslexia and a passion for teaching, Shannon built the academy around the idea that learning should be fun, hands-on, and adapted to each child’s unique needs.
Out of the Box Academy caters for children from Grade 00 to Grade 7 and is a highly recommended early learning space, feeding into Education Incorporated’s high school (Mainstream). At Out of the Box, children learn through exploration, creativity, and play. Shannon’s mission is to help every child build confidence, discover their strengths, and develop a love for learning in a supportive, nurturing environment.
For more information, contact info@otbacademy.co.za.
Val van der Berg and the Davis Program
Val van der Berg played a pivotal role in helping James overcome his specific learning challenges. Under the guidance and experience of Axel Gudmundsson, Val guided James through the Davis Program, which made a significant difference in his life. Now a fully qualified Davis instructor, reading and maths therapist, Val has continued to support James in ways that have empowered him to harness his intellect and manage his challenges effectively. I’m incredibly grateful for Val’s impact on James’s journey.
Barbara Robinson from Orion College
Barbara Robinson was the one who first recognised that James was gifted and in the wrong place at his previous remedial school. Thanks to her insight and leadership at Orion College, James moved from a ‘skills’ class to catch up with primary school, with the right support every step. Barbara’s dedication to inclusivity and her belief in James’s potential made all the difference, helping him find his path and excel.
Naledi Mokoena, Psychologist
While Naledi Mokoena hasn’t worked directly with James, her expertise in neurodiversity is invaluable. She specialises in developmental assessments and therapy for neurodiverse children, and her approach is compassionate and effective. I’ve seen Naledi’s incredible impact on other families, and her insights into autism and ADHD are second to none. I do not doubt that her support could be a game-changer for any parent navigating similar challenges.
Jen Spencer from EDU360
Jen Spencer from EDU360 is another remarkable professional I’ve recently met, and I truly wish I had known her sooner. EDU360 offers a tiered approach to learning, with outcomes ranging from basic life skills to Cambridge A levels, ensuring every child’s needs are met. Jen’s approach to understanding the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, and socially—is precisely what makes EDU360 stand out. Her ability to address both strengths and challenges is refreshing, and I’m confident her work could be transformative for any child. Jen’s dedication to empowering children is something I deeply respect, and I’m grateful to have her as part of our journey.
Kate La Trobe: A Neurodivergent Advocate and Ally
I’ve known Kate since she was very young, and witnessing her journey has been inspiring. Growing up neurodiverse herself, Kate only realised her neurodivergence as an adult. We share a passion for helping others navigate their neurodiverse journeys, and I am proud to consider her a trusted ally. Based in the UK, Kate is dedicated to creating neuroinclusive, empowering, and understanding spaces for individuals, parents, and schools.
With a Master of Science in Behaviour Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Kate specialises in ADHD, Autism, and Dyslexia. She brings her expertise into her work as an ADHD coach, using a blend of behavioural science, executive functioning, and mindfulness to help her clients unlock their full potential. Whether through one-on-one coaching, inclusive workshops, or policy development, Kate is committed to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in every space she touches.
If you’re looking for a knowledgeable and compassionate ally, I confidently recommend contacting Kate. You can connect with her on LinkedIn or via email at katelatrobe96@gmail.com.
Books, websites and resources
Neurodiversity and Learning Disabilities
Books
- “Dyslexia is My Super Power (Most of the Time)” by Margaret Rooke
Focuses on the strengths and unique abilities of individuals with dyslexia, offering a positive perspective. - “Overcoming Dyslexia” by Sally Shaywitz, M.D.
A comprehensive guide on understanding and addressing dyslexia, with practical advice for parents. - “Learning Outside the Lines” by Jonathan Mooney and David Cole
Provides insights and strategies for parents of children with learning differences, emphasizing non-traditional learning methods. - “Bright Not Broken: Gifted Kids, ADHD, and Autism” by Diane M. Kennedy and Rebecca S. Banks
Explores the challenges faced by twice-exceptional children (gifted and have ADHD or autism), offering strategies to help them succeed. - “Different Minds: Gifted Children with ADHD, ASD, and Other Dual Exceptionalities” by Deirdre V. Lovecky
Discusses the unique needs of gifted children with ADHD and autism, with practical advice for nurturing their strengths.
Websites
- Parenting Hub
Offers articles and resources on parenting topics, including neurodiversity and learning disabilities, tailored to South African families. - Neurodiversity Centre
A South African organization providing support, assessments, and resources for neurodevelopmental conditions, using a multidisciplinary approach. - Bright & Quirky
Provides resources and support for parents of twice-exceptional (2e) children, offering strategies to empower strengths while addressing challenges. - Autism Resources South Africa
A collection of articles, tools, and products to support parents of children on the autism spectrum, specifically within the South African context.
Emotional and Mental Health
Books
- “The Mindful Child” by Susan Kaiser Greenland
Offers mindfulness techniques to help children manage stress and improve emotional regulation. - “The Highly Sensitive Child” by Elaine N. Aron, Ph.D.
A guide for parents of children who experience sensory overwhelm, with strategies to support their needs. - “A Parent’s Guide to High-Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder” by Sally Ozonoff, Geraldine Dawson, and James C. McPartland
Offers practical strategies for helping children with high-functioning autism, including real-life stories and problem-solving ideas. - “Uniquely Human: A Different Way of Seeing Autism” by Barry M. Prizant
Provides a compassionate perspective on autism, focusing on understanding and supporting individuals by recognizing their unique strengths.
Websites
- South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG)
Provides support groups and resources for parents and caregivers of children with mental health challenges, including neurodiversity.
Parenting Through Challenges and Life Balance
Books
- “Beyond the Blues: Understanding and Treating Prenatal and Postpartum Depression & Anxiety” by Shoshana Bennett and Pec Indman
Provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and managing prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety. - “The Fourth Trimester: A Postpartum Guide to Healing Your Body, Balancing Your Emotions, and Restoring Your Vitality” by Kimberly Ann Johnson
Offers holistic solutions for postpartum healing, addressing physical, emotional, and relational aspects. - “Down Came the Rain: My Journey Through Postpartum Depression” by Brooke Shields
A personal account of the author’s struggle with postpartum depression, offering insight and hope to parents experiencing similar challenges.
Websites
- Expectant Mothers Guide
Provides information on support groups and counselling services available in South Africa for parents dealing with postnatal depression.
These resources are designed to support you on your parenting journey by offering practical advice, community support, and insights into your children’s unique challenges and strengths. They are particularly relevant for South African families and focus on empowering parents to help their children thrive.