For neurodivergent young people, identifying trusted and supportive adults can be a critical aspect of their well-being. Understanding who is safe to turn to for help or guidance is a crucial skill, but it can be challenging, especially in a world that often feels overwhelming.
Here's how you can help neurodivergent young people recognise safe adults in their lives.
Normalise the Process - Begin by explaining that not everyone is safe to talk to, and that’s okay. It's important for them to understand that they have the right to set boundaries and choose who they trust. Discuss the idea of "safe" versus "unsafe" adults.
Give Concrete Characteristics - Work with the young person to draw up a list of characteristics for safe and unsafe adults to help them make decisions as to who they consider safe adults. For example, someone that makes them feel calm or someone who it feels ok to say no to, is likely safer than someone who shouts a lot or makes them do things they don’t want to do.
Use Clear Communication - Use straightforward, clear language. It is really important in this topic to say what you mean and mean what you say. This isn’t the time for phrases such as “trust your feelings”. More concrete examples and characteristics are helpful here so there is less room for misinterpretation.
Model Safe Behaviours - Show them what it looks like to be a supportive, reliable adult. Demonstrating empathy, patience, and active listening helps them identify those same qualities in others. Encourage open conversations about their experiences with adults, so they can reflect on which relationships make them feel secure.
Empower Self-Advocacy - Teach them to advocate for themselves when they feel uncomfortable. Let them know they have the right to walk away or speak up if someone is not making them feel safe. Building confidence in self-advocacy can empower young people to seek support from trusted adults.
Download the free resource below to work through this with your young person:
About Equal Potential CIC
Equal Potential are a non-profit organisation based in Farnborough, Hampshire.
We believe that early and ongoing support for neurodivergent young people that set up young people for success, both while in education and while in the early stages of their career, are vital to creating more equal opportunities. Whether through mentoring, maths & English tuition, functional skills, social and skill-based clubs or career advice, we are dedicated to helping young people reach their full potential by providing support at the earliest possible stage.
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