Launching Neurodivergent Teens Into Adulthood
Launching Neurodivergent Teens Into Adulthood
Calm Conversations • Healthy Boundaries • Lasting Connection
Do you ever feel like every conversation with your teen turns tense, even when you’re trying to help?
☑️ Wish you could communicate without it feeling like a battle for control?
☑️ Struggle to stay calm when emotions run high or your teen shuts down?
☑️ Wonder how to let go without losing connection?
Take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong.
I’m Crystal Wagner, a Life and Parenting Coach, autistic and ADHD (AuDHD) mom of two neurodivergent daughters, and a former homeschooler who’s walked this path myself. After years of trying to manage, fix, and protect, I discovered what my teens needed most wasn’t more control. They needed calm communication, healthy boundaries, and a loving relationship.
Each episode offers gentle guidance to help you:
✨ Have calmer conversations that build trust and confidence.
✨ Regulate your emotions so you can help your teen co-regulate.
✨ Set healthy boundaries that support independence and mutual respect.
✨ Navigate the transition from parenting to partnering as your teen steps into adulthood.
You’ll find gentle, faith-grounded encouragement and neurodiversity-informed tools that help both you and your teen feel seen, heard, and safe.
If you’re ready to move from control to connection and help your neurodivergent teen with calm, compassion, and confidence, this podcast is for you.
Grab your favorite weighted blanket, take a deep breath, and let’s walk this launch season together.
Launching Neurodivergent Teens Into Adulthood
3: From Frustration to Compassion: Shifting to See Your Neurodivergent Teen as a “Baby Adult”
Have a comment or question for Crystal? Send it in here!
There was a season when I found myself getting frustrated with my daughters’ choices, wondering why they couldn’t just figure things out. Then a friend described her young adults as “baby adults,” and something in me softened. That phrase helped me remember how much learning happens in every new stage of life. It gave me a lens of compassion and reminded me that adulthood, like walking or driving, takes practice.
In this episode, I share how this simple mindset shift changed the way I approached parenting my neurodivergent teens. I talk about what it means to see them as learners instead of expecting instant independence, how that perspective reduced frustration in our home, and why patience, celebration, and grace matter so much in this stage.
As you listen, take a moment to reflect on the stage your teen is in and how you might bring a little more compassion—to them and to yourself.
Links and Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
- Want to help your teen shine during interviews? Grab the free parent guide.
Let’s connect:
Here are three ways I can support you on your journey:
1. Join a Workshop
Experience calm, creativity, and connection in a hands-on setting. Each month, I host a live workshop where you can slow down, reflect, and explore your relationship with your teen in a supportive space.
See upcoming events.
2. Pivot Points Group Coaching Program
Join a small-group experience to strengthen your listening skills and connection. In the Pivot Points Group Coaching Program, you’ll learn simple, powerful ways to shift how you communicate with your neurodivergent teen or young adult.
Learn more about Pivot Points Group Coaching.
3. 1:1 Life Transitions Coaching
Get personalized support for your season of transition. In private coaching, we focus on your unique challenges—whether that’s redefining your role, rebuilding connection, or finding your next step as your teen becomes more independent.
Learn more about 1:1 Coaching.