Why I’ve Stopped Apologising for My Kid’s Sensory Needs (and You Can Too)

Why I’ve Stopped Apologising for My Kid’s Sensory Needs (and You Can Too)



Let’s just say it: the world isn’t built for neurodivergent kids.
And by “not built for,” I mean it’s like handing my child a megaphone in a library and saying “shhh.”

For a long time, I found myself constantly apologising.
“Sorry about the noise.”
“Sorry he’s spinning.”
“Sorry we’re leaving early.”
“Sorry he’s wearing headphones and a superhero cape in a restaurant.”
Sorry. Sorry. SORRY.

Until one day, I realised I wasn’t sorry at all.

Sensory Needs Aren’t Naughty

We’ve been conditioned to view “different” as “wrong.”
But sensory seeking, stimming, avoiding loud sounds, flapping hands — these aren’t behaviour problems. They’re coping strategies.

My child isn’t being difficult. He’s trying to make the world bearable.

The Guilt Was Never Mine to Carry

Other people’s discomfort is not your responsibility.
Your child has every right to exist loudly, quietly, spinny, barefoot, or whatever helps them feel safe.

What I Do Now Instead

  • I explain, if it feels safe to.

  • I advocate.

  • I give my child the space they need — even if that means a meltdown in Aldi next to the frozen peas.

And when I get “the look”? I meet it with one of my own. A calm, confident “we’re good, thanks” stare.

💜You Don’t Owe the World an Apology



You don’t owe the world an apology.

Not for your child’s stimming, not for meltdowns, not for the noise-cancelling headphones or the fact you had to leave the party after 7 minutes.

Your child’s needs are valid. Their ways of coping are valid.
And you, my love, are doing an amazing job.

But here’s the thing:
It’s not your child who needs to change.
👉 It’s the world.

The world needs to adapt to sensory children — not the other way around.
Because accessibility isn't a bonus, it's a basic right.

And until society catches up, we’ll keep showing up, speaking up, and making space for our incredible neurodivergent kids.

👀 Want to dive deeper? I wrote more about this in my post: “Is the World Really Embracing Autism or Just Saying It Is?”


Be sure to check out our YouTube Channel!




👉 Check out our sensory-friendly visual tools & printables to support your child’s needs (without the guilt) 



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