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Why after school feels so hard (and what helps

Sep 08, 2026
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Dear EPT Parent,

Have you noticed how school days often end in tears, meltdowns, or silence? That’s because many neurodivergent children spend all day masking and holding it together. By the time they walk through the door, their nervous system is on overload.

 

The “afterschool crash” isn’t bad behaviour. It’s the body saying: I’ve used up all my energy, and I need to reset.

 

Here are three practical ways to help your child’s nervous and sensory system recover after school:

✨ Decompression first, talk later — a quiet snack or solo time before asking about the day.
✨ Movement release — jumping on the trampoline, swinging, or a quick bike ride to discharge stress hormones.
✨ Sensory calm — dimmed lights, favourite soft clothes, or calming music to help re-regulate.

 

The key? Don’t dive straight into homework, chores, or questions. Give space for the nervous system to rebalance, then your child will have more capacity for connection.

 

With warmth,

Your Child and Adolescent Educational Psychologist,
Lorraine Xx

 

P.S. In the Membership this week, I’ll be sharing a step-by-step after-school reset plan—so you know exactly how to support transitions without battles or overwhelm.

 Neurodiversity Parenting Membership

 

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