Parenting at the Intersections: Raising Neurodivergent Children of Color

by Jaya Ramesh

"This is an invaluable, nuanced, and deeply needed guide to parenting diverse children as we move, together, toward a future in which all brains and bodies are supported—and belong." —Jessica McCabe, How to ADHDWhat if parenting were an act of social justice? In this part story-telling, part self-inquiry book, authors and therapists Jaya Ramesh and Priya Saaral situate parenting children of color with neurodivergence within the context of various interlocking systems of oppression including settler colonialism, White supremacy, ableism, and capitalism. These intersections engender isolation and loneliness. Using the voices of parents on the front lines and other experts, Parenting at the Intersections offer an invitation to parents to slow down and reflect on their own parenting journeys.When parents can be given space to listen to their own voices, to connect with their children, and find community with others, they can find the most radical ways to disrupt systems of oppression.

Genres: Parenting, Nonfiction, Social Justice

352 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 16, 2024

Reviews

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was on the reference list during a Play Therapy training in working with Neurodivergent clients. This is a great resource! I love the questions at certain breaks in the text to check in with your body about how you are absorbing the information or experiencing the discussion, especially in light of your experiences. It helps to not just read it for information but the mindfulness is important for how the information is connecting.

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I picked up this book, I expected it to be a resource that aided my anti-racist learning journey. What I didn't expect was to feel so seen and validated as a parent of neurodivergent children. As a white parent of neurodivergent children, there are many resources accessible to me that seek to provide community, understanding, and support. The particular experience of parenting neurodivergent children of color is not adequately addressed in these resources. This book was sorely needed. The invitations to stop and take a breath, to reflect on what is being read, makes this an introspective read. I deeply appreciated the patient explanations of how capitalism and white supremacy stifle all of our children's potential. This is a book that all parents, and perhaps especially white parents of neurotypical children, should consider reading and spending time reflecting on. And it is about time those parenting children with these intersecting identities has such a high quality work to turn to for support.

[Brown Girl Bookshelf]

Jaya Ramesh and Priya Saaral’s compassionate guide is for readers seeking to understand the impact of childhood challenges and traumas, including neurodivergence. Importantly, this book acknowledges the unique struggles of parents and children of color in a society dominated by ableism, white supremacy, patriarchy, and other oppressive systems.

Through deeply researched case studies and poignant reflections, the authors illustrate how societal norms and educational structures reinforce harmful definitions of "normal.” Ramesh and Saaral offer insights into the policies and practices that disadvantage neurodivergent children and their families. Particularly for those thrust into a recent diagnosis, this book is a guiding light of understanding and support to those who may feel overwhelmed by the challenges ahead.

Ramesh and Saaral write with unique thoughtfulness, including "body checks" and reflection questions, making readers feel like they're conversing with a trusted friend or therapist. They provide solace and understanding in a world that often alienates parents of neurodivergent children and neurodivergent individuals. This book feels like coming home, offering validation, support, and guidance for raising neurodivergent children of color or re-parenting oneself.

While “Parenting at the Intersections” fills a gaping hole in the parenting and educator literature, this book is for anyone who seeks to facilitate a more accessible, inclusive, and humane society.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an audiobook read, I started the book after listening to the authors be guests on a parenting podcast I listen to. The way they spoke about neurodivergence and parenting I just knew I needed to read their book.

I enjoyed it so much I am also buying a copy of the paper version to keep at work and use a reference. I can’t say enough how much I appreciated the perspective they brought. As a BIPOC parenting raising a neurodivergent child, this resonated with me in a way I didn’t realize I needed. It can be very isolating to have a child that you need to parent differently than is considered conventional.

I will be recommending this book to any parent raising neurodivergent children, although the book speaks directly to the BIPOC experience, I think it’s important for all kinds of parents.

[Andrea Turtenwald · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Being with our children, listening deeply to them, affirming their truth, and taking their lead to guide their development, is the medicine we need. Their spirit, wisdom, play, emotions, and dreams, is the way."

If you're even considering reading this book, just do it! You'll undoubtedly better understand the nuances of intersectionality pertaining to neurodiversity. The authors impactful utilized quotes from experts, thought leaders, and parents to build depth into the topics.

[Lindsey Horvatich · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an absolutely must read for all parents, educators, therapists, and medical providers.