What I Learned During Therapy with My Son

When we started therapy for my son, I thought it was about helping him. But I didn’t realize how much I would learn, grow, and change. My son has ADHD, and life with him is a whirlwind of energy, curiosity, and big emotions. Therapy became a journey for him and me as a parent and person.

Here are the lessons that have forever changed how I see parenting, growth, and connection.

1.     Play Is the Language of Connection

Kids don’t sit down and say, “Here’s what’s on my mind.” They communicate through play. Therapy taught me to watch, listen, and join in. When my son zoomed his monster trucks around the room, he wasn’t just playing. He expressed how he saw the world as fast-paced and full of obstacles and possibilities.

By kneeling on the floor and racing alongside him, I learned to connect on his level. That connection became the foundation for trust, communication, and even problem-solving.

2.     Small Wins Are Big Deals

Progress doesn’t look like a straight line—it’s more like a squiggly mess with moments of triumph in between. There were days when my son struggled to focus for even two minutes, but the day he completed a whole puzzle? We celebrated like he’d just conquered the world.

Therapy taught me to notice and celebrate these small wins because they add to something incredible. Whether it’s sharing a crayon, asking for help, or sitting calmly for a short period, these milestones matter. They’re the stepping stones to more immense achievements.

3.     Big Feelings Need Space, Not Fixing

Before therapy, my instinct was to calm my son’s meltdowns quickly—to offer solutions or distractions. But I’ve learned that emotions need space. Sometimes, my son just needs me to be there. No judgment, no rush—just quiet reassurance that he’s safe to feel whatever he’s feeling.

Now, when the tears come, I sit beside him. I’ll say, “I’m here,” or “It’s okay to feel upset.” Over time, he’s learned to ride those waves of emotion and come out the other side more substantial and more in control.

4.     Connection Unlocks Confidence

Therapy isn’t just about behaviour. It’s about relationships. I’ve seen my son’s confidence blossom by creating moments of connection—a silly dance-off, building a tower together, or simply reading side by side.

These little moments remind him that he’s supported and loved, which gives him the courage to try new things, even when they feel stiff. And as he grows braver, so do I.

5.     Parenting Is a Journey of Growth

The most surprising thing I learned? Therapy isn’t just for him—it’s for me, too. It’s helped me slow down, reflect, and let go of the idea that I need to have all the answers. I’ve learned to focus less on perfection and more on connection.

My son isn’t defined by his diagnosis. He’s a vibrant, curious, and loving little human navigating the world in his own way. And I’m learning to meet him where he is instead of where I thought he “should” be.

Final Thoughts

Therapy taught me that growth takes time, patience, and love. It’s not about fixing my child; it’s about understanding him. It’s about walking this journey together, hand in hand, learning from each other every step of the way.

If you’re on this path with your child, know you’re not alone. Celebrate the small wins, embrace the messiness of progress, and never underestimate the power of connection. You’ve got this.

Let’s Connect

Need guidance or support? Book a 1:1 consultation with me here, and let’s navigate this journey together. Or share your own parenting wins in the comments below—I’d love to celebrate with you!

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To support your child’s journey through therapy, here are some sensory and fidget toys that might help with focus and emotional regulation:

Dinosaur Stress Balls – These squishy stress relief balls are perfect for hand exercises and calming the mind, helping with muscle strength and relaxation. Liquid Motion Bubbler Toys are great for calming and focusing energy and are perfect for children with ADHD. The slow-moving liquid is mesmerizing and can be an excellent tool for self-soothing.  Fidget Cubes – Various textures and features like buttons to press and switches to flick provide a calming experience and promote focus.