Signs Your Child is Thriving — Even If the World Doesn’t See It
The Progress You Cannot Measure in Marks
As parents, we often miss the most important signs of progress in our children.
Not because they aren’t happening.
But because they are happening quietly.
It’s like watching your child grow taller.
You don’t notice it day by day.
But one day their trousers are shorter.
One day their shoes don’t fit.
And you realize — they’ve been growing all along.
The same is true for your neurodiverse (Trailblazer) child.
Real growth is not loud.
It’s not always seen in certificates or school reports.
It’s in the small shifts that happen quietly, daily — right in front of you.
And if we don’t learn to look for these moments — we risk missing the beauty of their journey.
The Progress Parents Forget to See
Sometimes we are so busy looking for the big changes — that we miss the small, steady shifts happening every day.
The way they pause before reacting.
The way they look at you when you call their name.
The way they try again — after failing yesterday.
This is growth. This is progress. This is thriving.
The Real Signs of Thriving in ND Children
1. Your Child is One Step Ahead of Yesterday
That’s all that matters.
- They had fewer meltdowns today.
- They calmed down faster than last time.
- They sat for 3 minutes longer than yesterday.
This is emotional regulation — building slowly, but surely.
2. They Are Following Simple Commands
Maybe last month they wouldn’t respond.
Today — they looked at you when you called their name.
They put the toy back when asked.
They are beginning to listen and respond.
This is attention. This is connection.
3. They Are Doing A Few Things More Than Before
Small acts that show growth:
- Tidying up toys without being told.
- Picking up their plate after eating.
- Wearing shoes with less help.
This is responsibility taking root.
4. They Are Expressing Their Preferences
- Saying no.
Choosing their favourite book.
Showing you what they want.
This is independence finding a voice.
5. They Are Asking for Help
- Instead of crying.
Instead of breaking down.- They are looking at you and saying: “Help me.”
This is problem-solving and trust — two powerful life skills.
6. They Are Showing Joy
- Laughing a little more.
Smiling when they see you.
Wanting to play the same game again.
Joy is the deepest sign of safety.
Joy means your child is beginning to belong — to themselves, and to you.
Dear Parent, Look Closer.
Your child is not standing still.
They are moving.
They are growing.
They are trying.
One step ahead of yesterday.
That’s not small progress.
That’s the most important progress of all.
Thank you for being part of this quiet revolution.
The momentum is real. And it begins with you.