Killian Our eldest son, just 8 years old, is a young carer. Like so many other young carers, they don't  always receive the recognition they truly deserve. The challenges we face as parents are challenges our other children must navigate as well.

Killian has taken on an incredible amount of responsibility at such a young age. His teachers adore him, we love him, and we couldn’t be prouder of the young man he’s becoming. Like many young carers his age, he’s had to grow up faster than most children due to the responsibilities that come with his role. He’s a kind, compassionate boy and an amazing older brother. There were days, however, when the weight of it all became overwhelming—especially when his brother, in moments of frustration, would lash out. Yet through it all, Killian would always say, "It’s not his fault; he has disabilities." His understanding and empathy are truly remarkable. 

Recently, with the support of social workers, we were granted respite care for our youngest. This has given us the opportunity to dedicate more focused, quality time to him. We feel incredibly blessed to have such a wonderful son, and both his mother and I want to express just how proud we are of him.

What is a Neurotypical Child?

A neurotypical child refers to a child whose brain development and cognitive functioning align with typical developmental patterns for their age. The term "neurotypical" is often used to describe children who do not have neurological or developmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or other similar conditions. These children tend to process information, communicate, and interact socially in ways that are generally expected within society. It’s important to note that being neurotypical does not imply superiority or perfection, but rather reflects a standard neurological functioning that is common within the general population.

If this resonates with you, we’d love to hear your thoughts—share them in the comments below!