🌈 Support for Neurodivergent Children Resources, Tools & Guidance for Families in the Bay Area
At SF Bay Play Therapy, we believe that every child’s brain is beautifully unique. Our mission is to support neurodivergent children—including those with ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences, learning differences, and other diverse ways of thinking—with compassion, creativity, and expertise.
Whether you're just beginning your journey or looking for additional tools, this page is here to guide you.
At SF Bay Play Therapy, we believe that every child’s brain is beautifully unique. Our mission is to support neurodivergent children—including those with ADHD, autism, sensory processing differences, learning differences, and other diverse ways of thinking—with compassion, creativity, and expertise.
Whether you're just beginning your journey or looking for additional tools, this page is here to guide you.
💡 What Does "Neurodivergent" Mean?Neurodivergence refers to natural differences in how brains process information, interact with others, and experience the world. These differences can include:
🎨 How Play Therapy Helps Neurodivergent ChildrenChildren communicate through play, and for neurodivergent kids, play is a safe and powerful way to:
🧰 Helpful Resources for Families
❤️ Connection-Based Parenting with Hand in Hand ParentingAt SF Bay Play Therapy, we love and recommend Hand in Hand Parenting for its simple, powerful tools rooted in emotional connection. These resources are especially helpful for children with sensory sensitivities, attention differences, and other neurodivergent needs.
🌟 Featured Resources:
🌱 Core Tools from Hand in Hand:
🧠 Local Evaluations & Support Services
📚 Books & Guides for Parents
🧸 Web-Based Support & Communities
🧘 Regulation Tools & Sensory Supports
🤝 We're Here for You
We know parenting a neurodivergent child comes with moments of deep joy and real challenge. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. Whether you're looking for a therapist, community, or simply a place to feel supported, we're honored to be part of your village.
Ready to connect?
📧 [email protected]
📍 Serving families across the San Francisco Bay Area
- Autism Spectrum
- ADHD
- Sensory Processing Differences
- Learning Disabilities (like dyslexia or dyscalculia)
- Tourette Syndrome
- And more
🎨 How Play Therapy Helps Neurodivergent ChildrenChildren communicate through play, and for neurodivergent kids, play is a safe and powerful way to:
- Express emotions without pressure
- Build confidence and self-regulation
- Strengthen communication and social skills
- Develop tools for managing anxiety, transitions, or frustration
- Feel seen, accepted, and understood
🧰 Helpful Resources for Families
❤️ Connection-Based Parenting with Hand in Hand ParentingAt SF Bay Play Therapy, we love and recommend Hand in Hand Parenting for its simple, powerful tools rooted in emotional connection. These resources are especially helpful for children with sensory sensitivities, attention differences, and other neurodivergent needs.
🌟 Featured Resources:
- How To Support A Child With Sensory Processing Differences
A parent-friendly guide to understanding and supporting children during sensory overwhelm. - Helping a Child with Sensory Processing Differences to Get Dressed
Practical tools for easing clothing struggles without power battles. - Modifications to Hand in Hand Tools for Sensory Issues
Therapist Beth Ohaneson shares helpful adjustments to classic Hand in Hand tools for sensory-sensitive kids (PDF download). - Paying Attention to Attention Issues
Insightful article on supporting children who struggle with focus and attention. - ND Connect – Monthly Support Group
A free online support group for parents of neurodivergent kids, led by Hand in Hand instructors with lived experience. Check the link for upcoming events.
🌱 Core Tools from Hand in Hand:
- Listening Partnerships – Emotional support for parents
- Special Time – A simple way to build connection and cooperation
- Setting Limits with Warmth – Gentle tools for tough moments
- Parenting Podcasts & Free Articles – For inspiration and everyday guidance
🧠 Local Evaluations & Support Services
- Regional Center of the East Bay
- UCSF Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Services
- DREDF (Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund)
- California Department of Education – IEP/504 Resources
📚 Books & Guides for Parents
- The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz
- Uniquely Human by Barry M. Prizant
- Parenting ADHD Now! by Penny Williams
- Neurotribes by Steve Silberman
- Smart but scattered by Peg Dawson and Richard Guare
- ADHD 2.0 by Dr. Ed Hallowell
🧸 Web-Based Support & Communities
- Understood.org
- ADDitude Magazine
- The Autism Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
- The Mighty (neurodivergent parenting stories & tips)
🧘 Regulation Tools & Sensory Supports
- Weighted blankets & sensory swings
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Visual schedules
- Calm-down kits
🤝 We're Here for You
We know parenting a neurodivergent child comes with moments of deep joy and real challenge. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. Whether you're looking for a therapist, community, or simply a place to feel supported, we're honored to be part of your village.
Ready to connect?
📧 [email protected]
📍 Serving families across the San Francisco Bay Area