SLP 328: Understanding PDA: Why Common Strategies Don't Work for Every Child

SLP 328: Understanding PDA: Why Common Strategies Don't Work for Every Child

Author: Sue Larkey January 12, 2026 Duration: 41:57

Join Sue for an upcoming Live Virtual Workshop where you will learn from Sue practical tips & strategies to make a difference.

In this episode, we will discuss:

✅ PDA Profile: Pathological demand avoidance requires different strategies than autism.
✅ Consistency Over Routines: Adults must remain calm and consistent, not rigid.
✅ Tomorrow Box: Allow children to defer tasks without refusing them.
✅ Trust Building: Forcing compliance damages relationships with demand-avoidant children.
✅ Anxiety Reduction: Lower anxiety reveals humor, creativity, and resilience.
✅ Adult Adaptation: Professionals adapt their approach, not forcing child compliance.
✅ Interest-Led Connection: Meet children through gaming, drawing, cooking interests.

Read more about this podcast in the show notes found via the link below

suelarkey.com.au/pathological-demand-avoidance-strategies

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The Sue Larkey Podcast-Autism (ASD), ADHD, ODD and PDA education is a practical resource for parents, educators, and carers navigating neurodiversity. Hosted by experienced teacher and consultant Sue Larkey, this podcast translates complex topics into actionable advice you can use straight away. Each episode focuses on real-world strategies for supporting children and teens across the spectrum, including those with co-occurring conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, and Pathological Demand Avoidance. The conversation spans from early intervention through the teenage years and into adulthood, addressing the evolving challenges and opportunities at each stage. You’ll hear clear explanations of often-misunderstood behaviours, alongside evidence-based techniques for communication, learning, and reducing anxiety in home and school settings. The tone is consistently empathetic and grounded in decades of hands-on experience, making specialist knowledge feel accessible. While the core of the podcast is Sue's direct guidance, she frequently incorporates insights from other professionals and the lived experiences of families. It’s designed to be both informative and reassuring, offering a sense of community and practical next steps. For those who want to dive deeper, show notes often point to related books and downloadable resources available on Sue's website, extending the learning from each audio session. This is a podcast that understands the daily realities of supporting neurodivergent young people, prioritizing useful takeaways over theory.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Sue Larkey Podcast - Autism (ASD), ADHD, ODD and PDA education
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