SLP 353: Why Autistic Girls Mask at School and Meltdown at Home

SLP 353: Why Autistic Girls Mask at School and Meltdown at Home

Author: Sue Larkey August 3, 2026 Duration: 27:49

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

✅ Masking: Girls mimic peers, appearing fine while exhausted inside.
✅ After-School Meltdowns: Held-in stress erupts at home, not school.
✅ Perfectionism: Small mistakes trigger distress; girls avoid asking help.
✅ Playground Fatigue: Breaks drain autistic girls rather than energise them.
✅ Diagnosis Timing: Earlier understanding eases the transition into high school.
✅ Teacher Signs: Watch anxiety, possessive friendships, and end-of-day unravelling.
✅ Special Interests: Share her passion to build calm and confidence.

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suelarkey.com.au/masking-meltdowns-neurodiverse-girls

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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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