Not Defiant, Just Overwhelmed by Change: Parenting Autistic & PDA Teens Through Puberty with Honest, Shame-Free Guidance (The Autism & PDA Coming of Age Series Book 1)

Puberty hits differently for autistic and PDA teens — and no one prepares you for it. For many families, this stage doesn’t look like “typical teen mood swings.” It looks like: Sudden irritability, explosive reactions, or unexpected aggression Panic over new smells, sensations, or changes in their body Refusal of showers, deodorant, shaving, or menstrual care Meltdowns or shutdowns that seem to come out of nowhere Big energy, bigger sensitivity, and growing embarrassment Confusion around boundaries, attraction, or growing independence This isn’t defiance. It’s a nervous system overwhelmed by changes they can’t control. This guide gives you the support most puberty books overlook — support designed specifically for autistic and PDA teens. Inside, you’ll learn how to: ✔️ Reduce emotional blow-ups by supporting your teen’s nervous system during hormonal shifts ✔️ Build sensory-aware hygiene routines that actually work ✔️ Support periods, hormonal shifts, and body changes without pressure ✔️ Navigate testosterone surges, irritability, and big physical energy ✔️ Talk about private touch, attraction, boundaries, and consent ✔️ Encourage independence without triggering PDA-driven resistance ✔️ Teach online safety and digital boundaries your teen will understand Through scripts, real-life examples, and gentle trauma-informed strategies, this guide supports you through the moments no one prepares you for — whether it’s a shower meltdown, panic over new sensations, or sudden questions about bodies and sexuality. You don’t have to navigate this stage alone. With the right support, your teen can feel safer in their changing body and more connected to you throughout the process. This is the first book in The Autism & PDA Coming of Age Series — practical guides for the stages where autistic and PDA teens and young adults need the most support. View Less