Q&A: When and how should I tell my child about his autism diagnosis?

Beyond the Sessions is answering YOUR parenting questions! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hershberg and I talk about... Why many parents worry that using the word "autism" might make their child feel different or labeled, and how to think about that fear. What research and clinical experience suggest about telling your child sooner rather than later. How giving a diagnosis a name can actually feel empowering and help your child make sense of their experiences. What it looks like to take a neuroaffirming, strengths-based approach when talking about autism. How to explain autism to a young child in developmentally appropriate, non-pathologizing language.Why this doesn't have to be one big, serious conversation and how to follow your child's lead over time. The value of being the one who defines what autism means for your child, before the world does. Simple ways to normalize and support your child through representation, stories, and everyday conversations. This episode will help you understand how to talk about neurodiversity in a way that feels simple, affirming, and age-appropriate, so your child can better understand their brain, their strengths, and the ways they experience the world. REFERENCES AND RELATED RESOURCES: 🔗 Every child deserves to feel safe, understood, and supported, and every parent deserves a place to turn. At Upshur Bren Psychology Group, we offer a full continuum of autism services: diagnostic testing, individual therapy, and parent support groups for families raising children and young adults on the spectrum. Visit upshurbren.com or schedule a free 30-minute consultation call to learn more about support options for you and your child. 📚 Different Thinkers: Autism by Katia Fredriksen PhD and Yael Rothman PhD 📚 Wonderfully Wired Brains: An Introduction to the World of Neurodiversity CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE: 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about how to help autistic kids build joy, confidence, and connection with Dr. Peter Vermeulen 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about treating autism with a strength based approach with Dr. Lynn Kern Koegel 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about whether a neuropsych Evaluation is right for your child with Dr. Yael Rothman & Dr. Katia Fredriksen 🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about how to modify traditional sleep strategies for neurodiverse brains with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Go to to send us a question or a topic you want to hear us answer on Securely Attached - Beyond the Sessions!

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Q&A: When and how should I tell my child about his autism diagnosis? is an episode from Securely Attached by Dr. Sarah Bren.

This episode is 24:33 long.

This episode was published on Apr 16, 2026.

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