Neurodivergence, Sewing and the Confidence Equation

One of the things that I’m enjoying most about my sewing journey right now is teaching neurodivergent kids.

Not only do I love guiding them to make creations they are proud of (though that’s definitely a major part of it)

But I can also see the possibilities that sewing opens up for them.

I imagine the process looks something like this:

Creativity + Craft + Community + Connection = Confidence

At every stage there are opportunities to develop and grow, whether it’s using imagination and creativity, learning new skills or connecting with others through a special interest.

I’m a parent of a neurodivergent child as well as having lived through my own (undiagnosed) ASD childhood.

I know first-hand how important it is to find space in a world that isn’t necessarily set up for us.

We all want fulfilling hobbies for our kids and there’s no doubt that career options can come out of it as well.

But perhaps the best gift that sewing gives us is the opportunities for connection, both now and into the future.

And connection is an essential part of building life-long confidence, especially for neurodivergent kids.

There are so many ways to be a part of a community through sewing, whether it’s helping put together costumes for the local theatre, participating in a craft collective or quilting group, or just getting together with like-minded friends for a sewing session.

And while it’s vastly more popular among women and girls, it’s a welcoming and supportive community for everyone.

Those of us who sew are proud of our community. Craft groups so often have important connections with charities and come together to support people in need. Providing handmade quilts for bushfire victims or children going through difficult medical issues at the RCH are just the tip of the iceberg.

Kids love the process of learning to sew and I often meet adults who wish they had learnt earlier.

Just as often, I meet adults who have taken up sewing again years or decades later and have built their confidence through creativity, craft, community and connection.

I want this confidence equation for my neurodivergent students but equally, I treasure it for myself and for all of us.

I would love the opportunity to teach your neurodivergent child and find out how I can support their sewing journey.

And of course, if you have a self managed or privately managed NDIS plan, just ask me and I can work with you regarding invoices.

Happy sewing and may your bobbin never run out!

xx Natalie @DDB