Neuroshambles
Neuroshambles is a UK parenting podcast about raising neurodivergent children. Hosted by lapsed comedian Mark Allen, this show explores autism parenting, ADHD, PDA, SEND, school struggles, family life and parental wellbeing through honest, relatable conversations - often with a healthy dose of humour, but always grounded in lived experience.
Mark is raising three neurodivergent children and chats with parents, carers, advocates and professionals about the everyday challenges some families face. These aren’t lectures or masterclasses, but candid tales from the front line of parenting neurodivergent kids, as guests swap stories about what works for them - and just as importantly, what definitely doesn’t. Topics range from meltdowns, PDA-related demand avoidance and dealing with authorities, to holidays, mealtimes and the logistical chaos of daily life.
Neuroshambles is for UK parents and carers who want something that feels human - supportive without being preachy, practical without being clinical. The aim isn’t to provide all the answers, but to shine a light on the absurdities and difficulties of a family life shaped by neurodivergence, offering connection, reassurance and the comfort of knowing you’re not the only one struggling to make sense of things.
New episodes are released fortnightly.
Check out more information on the Neuroshambles website: www.neuroshambles.com
Listen on:
Episodes
Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
Wednesday Jun 19, 2024
Raising one neurodivergent child is tough. Raising several, with sibling dynamics in the mix, is a whole different level. In this episode, Mark chats with Jess Cain about sibling relationships, fairness, jealousy, and the surprising ways kids can support one another.
They share anecdotes about the difficulties they face when trying to balance the wildly different needs of all of their children, whilst somehow trying to remain positive and upbeat. From avoiding conflict, the importance of discussing everyone's needs openly, and learning how to prioritise their own needs in the midst of the mayhem.
Jess shares what’s worked in helping her children understand and relate to each other, and Mark opens up about the guilt and gratitude that come with sibling life.
It’s a vital listen for families managing autism, ADHD or PDA alongside the complexity of sibling relationships.
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
Send Family Instincts Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sendfamilyinstincts/
Send Family Instincts Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SendFamilyInstincts/
Send Family Instincts website - https://sendfamilymagic.mykajabi.com/
Eliza Fricker - https://www.instagram.com/elizafricker_missingthemark/
Charlie Gray (My Neurodivergent Adventure) - https://myneurodivergentadventure.co.uk/
Laura Kerbey (P-AST) - https://p-ast.co.uk/
Brighton Fringe (Neurodiverse Performer Award) - https://www.brightonfringe.org/brighton-fringe-awards-ceremony/
Sara Jane Harvey (Agony Autie) - https://www.instagram.com/agonyautie/CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.comFOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
Wednesday Jun 05, 2024
In this autism and PDA parenting podcast episode, Lisa Galley joins Mark to talk about the long, often frustrating process of teaching neurodivergent children the life skills they'll need when they're an adult.
As they cover the diverse range of topics under the umbrella of life skills, Lisa offers some valuable (and occasionally comforting) insights into how her kids have acquired skills, such as getting a job, navigating self care, managing money, learning to drive and, ultimately living away from home.
Lisa shares her gentle approach to building independence at a child’s own pace, and Mark reflects on when to step in versus when to back off.
A reassuring and practical episode for anyone wondering when – or if – their child will ever learn to make toast.
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
Lisa Galley Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/school_run_mum_autism/
Roblox "Find The Markers" - https://www.roblox.com/games/7896264844/Find-The-Markers-237
Metro Bank - https://www.metrobankonline.co.uk/about-us/kids-zone/
Toren Wolf on Learning to Drive - https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6PndheP02Z/
Danielle Jata-Hall (PDA Parenting) - https://www.instagram.com/pdaparenting/
Sara Jane Harvey (Agony Autie) - https://www.instagram.com/agonyautie/
Lisa Galley's Website: https://www.lisagalley.com/CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.comFOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/
Wednesday May 22, 2024
Wednesday May 22, 2024
Board games, video games, a nice, relaxing game of crazy golf - fun for all the family, right? Not if you have neurodivergent kids. In this episode, Mark is joined by Dan Clark to explore how seemingly simple games can quickly spiral into chaos and meltdown when you’re parenting autistic, ADHD or PDA children.
They chat about fairness, turn-taking, emotional regulation and why Monopoly might be the most dangerous game in a neurodivergent household. Dan brings humour and honesty, sharing how video games have been a surprisingly good way to bond with his children.
They also discuss the hugely beneficial role that both video games and Dungeons & Dragons can play in teaching our kids some of the skills they need to develop, in order to navigate a world teeming with neurotypicals.
If you’re looking for a neurodivergent parenting podcast that understands both the joy and unpredictability of family life, this one hits the mark.
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
MindJam - https://mindjam.org.uk/
Monopoly - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monopoly_(game)
Fast Show Competitive Dad - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2x_DI7tzNQ
Mario Kart - https://store.nintendo.co.uk/en/mario-kart
Beat the Parents - https://amzn.eu/d/3xTCOg8
Cranium - https://amzn.eu/d/cVedUTu
Scrabble - https://amzn.eu/d/f4ngyJW
Dungeon Mayhem - https://amzn.eu/d/3Z0NFr8
Throw Throw Burrito - https://amzn.eu/d/3Z0NFr8
Ocean Bingo - https://www.laurenceking.com/products/ocean-bingo
Exploding Kittens - https://amzn.eu/d/933z2FH
Unstable Unicorns - https://amzn.eu/d/cDnUP80
Risk - https://amzn.eu/d/dc7h30w
The Dice Saloon, Brighton - https://www.dicesaloon.com/
Chase The Ace - https://www.classicgamesandpuzzles.com/Chase-the-Ace.html
Zelda: Breath of the Wild - https://www.ign.com/games/the-legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild
Boy beats Tetris - https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/67902380
Fortnite - https://www.ign.com/games/fortnite
Candy Crush - https://www.ign.com/games/candy-crush-saga
Dungeons & Dragons - https://dnd.wizards.com/
MindJam Adventure Guild - https://mindjam.org.uk/services/adventure-guild/
BAFTA Young Game Designers - https://ygd.bafta.org/
It Takes Two - https://www.ea.com/en-gb/games/it-takes-two/about
Brighton Festival Children's Parade - https://samesky.co.uk/events/childrens-parade-3/
Jump Inc Trampoline Park - https://www.jump-inc.uk/locations/lincoln/
Kellie Bright EHCP Film (BBC One Show) - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001z8w5
CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.com
FOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles
CREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Wednesday May 08, 2024
Loud hand dryers, echoey classrooms, ticking clocks - for neurodivergent kids, the world can feel painfully loud. Lauren Palfrey joins Mark to talk about auditory sensitivity - from extreme reactions to loud noises and meltdowns when confronted with contrasting sounds and the fascinating topic of misophonia.
They explore meltdowns triggered by hand dryers, how to handle noisy siblings, and the trauma that can come from being overwhelmed by everyday sounds.
A brilliant episode for anyone parenting autistic or sensory-sensitive children - especially if you’ve ever had to leave a noisy party early, or worn ear defenders in a supermarket.
This episode is best listened to with in a quiet place, with noise cancelling headphones!
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
Ear defenders - https://amzn.eu/d/fIIDess
Misophonia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misophonia
Cat scarer - https://amzn.eu/d/0U0SYMw
Santas on a bike - https://www.facebook.com/groups/santasonabike/
Loop earplugs - https://amzn.eu/d/iNWzyws
Lauren's noise cancelling headphones - https://groceries.asda.com/product/on-ear-headphones/asda-tech-bluetooth-noise-cancelling-headphones-black/1000370064193
Jay's noise cancelling headphones - https://amzn.eu/d/8hs4ToC
White noise - https://open.spotify.com/album/7KbmHEKwEhKyeZT9xuYVco?si=L5-cYE1HSIiYsaqWs83F-A
Brown noise - https://open.spotify.com/album/0onzJRO1vDBXmXqYy60qsR?si=xgwQCc0OSC-QfID0YOlycw
Pink noise - https://open.spotify.com/album/5w3fCjBpzyGA6tW9mSfQmr?si=bqH-u1ySQzSYkHVPNjXG1w
UK Misophonia Support Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ShutUpWorld/?mibextid=K35XfP
The Assembly - https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m001xyj5/the-assembly
Bloke Barbers, Allestree, Derbyshire (Sara) - https://www.blokebarber.co.uk/#our-prices
Comfa Clothing Fidget-T - https://www.comfa.co.uk/product/fidget-t/
CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.com
FOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles
CREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Why is mealtime such a battleground in neurodivergent households? Mark reunites with Liam Mullone to discuss the daily drama of feeding neurodivergent kids, from food aversions and arguments about cutlery to why they simply don't have the capacity sit still and "eat nicely".
They explore how control, routine and sensory needs all play a part in what (and how) kids eat, and the pressure parents feel to ‘just get them to eat something’. Liam brings sharp humour and brilliant analogies, while Mark reflects on his family’s evolving approach.
Whether you’re dealing with autistic eating preferences, ADHD impulsivity or PDA-related food refusal, this episode will resonate with you.
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
Torbay General Hospital paediatric ward - https://www.torbayandsouthdevon.nhs.uk/services/child-health/
McDonalds - https://www.mcdonalds.com/gb/en-gb.html
Wetherspoons - https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/
CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.com
FOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles
CREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
How do you help a child who experiences emotions like a hurricane? In this powerful episode, Mark is joined by Grace Lockrobin to explore why emotional regulation is so difficult for autistic, PDA and ADHD children, and what parents can do to support them.
They discuss emotional literacy, shutdowns, and the blurry line between PDA-related anxiety and perceived defiance. Mark and Grace also discuss how they deal with their own emotions as parents - from having to keep a firm lid on anger, to the often taboo subject of acknowledging the sadness in their own lives.
This episode offers tools and reassurance to parents struggling to help their children navigate big feelings - especially when those feelings lead to meltdowns or withdrawal.
If you need a neurodivergent parenting podcast that explores feelings with compassion and clarity, start here.
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
The Apprentice - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0071b63
Emotion cards - https://amzn.eu/d/1uT2Pru
Alexithymia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexithymia
Aquila Magazine - https://www.aquila.co.uk/
"The Explosive Child" book - https://drrossgreene.com/the-explosive-child.htm
Beavers - https://www.scouts.org.uk/beavers/
Villa Real School - https://www.villarealschool.co.uk/
"All The Ways to Be Smart" book - https://amzn.eu/d/4Ssd6qF
BBC Sport Article on Greg Halford - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/68617366
Nick Ransom, Journalist - https://www.nickransom.co.uk/
Sapere - https://www.sapere.org.uk/
CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.com
FOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles
CREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Wednesday Mar 27, 2024
Getting out the front door can feel like a military operation when you’re parenting autistic, ADHD or PDA kids. Comedian Hatty Ashdown joins Mark to talk about how something so basic becomes so complicated.
They swap stories about endless distractions, sensory meltdowns and the sheer unpredictability of transitions.
Hatty shares the small wins and epic fails she’s had trying to leave the house with her kids, and Mark offers tips he’s picked up (usually the hard way).
Funny, chaotic, and reassuringly honest – this episode is as a must for anyone who’s ever felt like they deserve a medal just for getting to Tesco.
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
Gorilla Gym - https://amzn.eu/d/22yMHaK
Purple Parenting - https://www.purpleparenting.co.uk/about/
Natural History Museum "Dawnosaurs" sessions - https://www.nhm.ac.uk/events/dawnosaurs.html
Hatty Ashdown's website - https://hattyashdown.com/
CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.com
FOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles
CREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Wednesday Mar 13, 2024
Meltdowns over itchy labels, battles over socks, and school uniform trauma. Steph Curtis joins Mark to talk about sensory sensitivity and the daily challenge of getting dressed when you’re parenting an autistic or PDA child who would much rather be naked - even in the most inappropriate moments.
They unpack how seemingly small things - like seams or fabrics - can derail a whole morning, and what strategies have (sort of) worked.
Steph shares how she's learned to balance comfort with practicality, and Mark reflects on the freedom that comes with letting go of expectations.
A neurodivergent parenting podcast episode that will resonate with anyone who’s ever spent 45 minutes negotiating over a pair of trousers.
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
“PDA in the family” by Steph Curtis - https://amzn.eu/d/1j8KsYi
Stephstwogirls on Instagram -www.instagram.com/stephstwogirls
Steph Curtis’ blog - www.stephstwogirls.co.uk
Bamboo socks - www.sockshop.co.uk/featured/kids-bamboo
Crocs - www.crocs.co.uk/c/kids/footwear
"Neuroshambles giveaway" shoes (size 3) - www.skechers.co.uk/foamies-guzman-steps---aqua-surge/91995L_BLK.html
Skechers - www.skechers.co.uk/kids
ASDA sensory school uniform - https://direct.asda.com/george/collections/easy-on-easy-wear-school/D28M110G1C3,default,sc.html
Marks & Spencers sensory clothing - www.marksandspencer.com/l/kids/easy-dressing
Sensory Smart Clothing - www.sensorysmart.co.uk
Fidget-T - www.comfa.co.uk/product/fidget-t
CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.com
FOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles
CREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
Wednesday Feb 28, 2024
In this funny and deeply personal conversation, Mark sits down with writer and fellow parent of neurodivergent kids, Samuel Wilson, to explore what it feels like to live - and parent - from the outside looking in.
They discuss isolation on the school playground, the judgment we feel from parents of neurotypicals and the joy of finding other parents of SEND kids who understand the realities.
If you're seeking an ADHD or autism parenting podcast that gets the emotional reality of this journey - this is it.
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
Albion in the Community, Brighton - www.bhafcfoundation.org.uk/timetable/Jumpin Fun - www.jumpinfun.co.uk/burgess-hillGladiators - www.gladiatorstv.com/gladiators/bbc/"Lend a Hand", Samuel Wilson's book - www.littlestepspublishing.co.uk/books/lend-a-handAmaze, Sussex - www.amazesussex.org.ukWhoopsadaisy, Brighton - www.whoopsadaisy.org
CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.com
FOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles
CREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Wednesday Feb 14, 2024
Why is something as seemingly straightforward as walking from A to B, an entirely different experience with neurodivergent children? Comedian and wellbeing advocate Angie Belcher joins Mark to discuss the joys and perils of being out and about with autistic, ADHD and PDA kids.
They explore the sensory and emotional regulation walking can bring, but also the pitfalls - from rigid routines, a complete lack of awareness of safety and refusals to leave the house. Angie brings her usual blend of insight and irreverence, while Mark shares his own parenting misadventures.
A great episode for parents looking to support their children’s mental health, explore new routines, or just hear stories that make them feel less alone. If you’re after a neurodivergent parenting podcast with warmth, wit and no pretence, this one delivers.
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
Incredible Kids, Bristol - www.incrediblekids.org.ukBristol Autism Project - www.facecharity.org.uk/our-work/bristol-autism-projectBristol Autism Support - www.bristolautismsupport.orgMurmuration, Bristol - www.murmurationcommunitytherapy.comFlora, Bristol - www.bristolparentcarers.org.uk/2021/05/24/flora-bristols-send-local-offerNational Trust Essential Companions - www.nationaltrust.org.uk/who-we-are/about-us/access-for-everyone"Walking With Toddlers" radio play - www.soundcloud.com/walking-and-re-creation/walking-with-toddlers?si=ca26f00080ee4a908347d0d3962b043c
CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.com
FOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles
CREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/