Inside the Neurodiversity Parenting Workshop: A Day of Learning, Connection and Support

On Saturday, 13 September 2025, BabyYumYum, with the support of Old Mutual, The Neuroverse and Nutripaeds, hosted The Neurodiversity Parenting Workshop at The Forum, The Campus in Bryanston, Johannesburg. The full-day event brought together over 300 parents, caregivers, educators and experts with one shared goal: to better understand, support and celebrate neurodiversity in children.

Neurodiversity encompasses conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other cognitive differences. Rather than framing these differences as “problems to fix,” the neurodiversity movement emphasises understanding, acceptance and support, creating environments where children can thrive as themselves.

ALSO READ: What Is Neurodiversity? 7 Things Every Parent Should Know

From the moment registration opened, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. Conversations flowed, exhibitor stands came alive, and parents arrived hopeful for practical strategies, guidance, and a sense of community.

Setting the Tone

The day was guided by the charismatic Kim Cloete, a well-known South African actress, television presenter, producer and entrepreneur. With a career spanning popular shows like Isidingo, Binnelanders, and 7de Laan, Kim brought her warmth, relatability, and engaging presence to the workshop. As MC, Kim kept the audience engaged while creating a welcoming and supportive space for all attendees.

BabyYumYum’s founder and CEO, Amanda Rogaly, officially opened the event, reminding attendees of its purpose: to provide parents with practical tools, resources and encouragement as they navigate the often complex journey of neurodiversity.

ALSO READ: Why Girls with ADHD Are Often Missed: What Every Parent Should Know

Expert Speakers Who Inspired and Educated

The workshop featured a strong line-up of professionals who shared their expertise and empathy. Topics ranged from schooling choices to nutrition, therapy, behaviour and financial planning.

Highlights included:

• Tamra Jones & Jules Belasyse-Smith (The Neuroverse) – building a community of shared experiences.

  

  

  

  

  

• Dr Alicia Porter – unpacking the role of medication and therapy.

• Naledi Mokoena – practical advice on navigating schools and learning support.

• Dr Jenny Rose – guidance on behaviour, emotional wellbeing and family balance.

• Niki Seberini – simple breathwork tools for overwhelmed parents and children.

• Kath Megaw (RD, SA) – how nutrition supports growth and eases mealtime stress.

• Tasneem Abrahams – occupational therapy insights into sensory regulation and executive functioning.

• Lizl Budhram (Old Mutual) – financial planning to prepare for the costs of long-term support.

• Rianette Leibowitz – digital wellbeing and screen-time strategies.

  

  

  

  

  

Tamra and Jules, who are the founders of The Neuroverse and parents to neurodivergent children, reassured parents that their struggles are valid and that support exists. 

“We are a community built from the ground up by parents and professionals who believe that no family should ever feel alone on this journey.

“Our network stretches across South Africa. We’ve seen firsthand how shared knowledge, empathy and lived experience can transform a family’s journey. The aim of The Neuroverse was to build a network of connections. We do this by offering real-life conversations via our WhatsApp and Facebook groups. We offer support in the form of coffee mornings and events. We post up-to-date resources, as well as offer a trusted specialists and school’s directory on our website. We also offer school talks and teacher training,” The Neuroverse.

Dr Jenny Rose, who is a clinical psychologist with over 16 years of experience in the field, focused on empowering parents and caregivers to manage the emotional wellbeing and behaviour of their families. 

She reminded parents that behaviour is the language of a child:

“Look beyond the behaviour. Children need us to see beyond the symptom and meet the underlying need. Respond. Don’t react… If your first reaction is to reprimand, shout, show disappointment and give consequences, they will be less inclined to come to you next time. Think about this as an adult. When we mess up, we know we’ve messed up. We don’t need someone to point that out to us in the moment. This holds true for your older kid, too,” Dr Jenny Rose.

Educational psychologist, Naledi Mokoena, gave tips on how to choose a school that is the right fit for your child. She explained that the right school for a neurodiverse child is one where leadership values inclusion, teachers are open to listening and learning, and the environment provides the right accommodations with allied professionals involved in the child’s overall support.

ALSO READ: Neurodiversity Parenting in Focus: Insights on Radio Islam International

Exhibitors, Refreshments and Lunch

The exhibitor stands were a hub of activity, offering resources, sensory tools, nutritional products and services tailored to families raising neurodivergent children. Parents left with information they could apply immediately.

To keep energy levels high, refreshments were served upon arrival and during the tea break, giving attendees the chance to pause, connect, and recharge between sessions. In addition, a delicious lunch was served at the end of the event.