A Day In the Life of a High-Needs Parent

The wild world of high-needs parenting: where a routine shopping trip can quickly turn into a heart-pounding race through a crowded mall. Yep, you read that right. Join me on a recent escapade where my weekend outing became a sprint-worthy search for my little wanderer.

Picture this: I'm on a mission to find new clothes for my high-needs daughter at a bustling mall. Meanwhile, she and her dad head off to explore. Next thing I know, he's yelling her name, and I can hear the distinct sound of little feet scampering across the tiled floor. But the yelling continues, and my heart starts racing.

As we search frantically, my mind races with where could she be in this huge mall.

This isn’t just happening to me. Right?! 

Before you think I've got this whole parenting thing figured out, let me set the record straight. I'm only a few steps ahead, and just when I think I've got it down, my high-needs kiddo throws a curveball. Parenting a high-needs child feels like navigating through a minefield blindfolded. All that matters is you get just a little bit ahead of the game. 

But here's the silver lining: in the midst of chaos and occasional meltdowns (both mine and my child's), I've found solace in the power of community. Trust me, you're not alone in this crazy journey. There's a whole tribe of parents out there, tackling similar challenges and sharing their stories.

Finding humor in the chaos

Let's be real—parenting a high-needs child is exhausting. Even in the chaos, there are moments of pure magic. From navigating crowded aisles to mastering the art of bathroom breaks with a pint-sized escape artist who likes to open the door, every day is an adventure.

And yes, while it may seem daunting, there's tremendous joy to be found in the small victories. Parenthood is messy, chaotic, and downright unpredictable. But it's also filled with moments of pure joy and laughter.

So here's to embracing the journey, finding humor in the chaos, and celebrating the unique quirks that make our kids who they are. After all, it's the ups and downs that make parenthood one amazing ride.

Embracing the crazy moments and smile!

In the end, it's about finding gratitude in chaos, laughing at the absurdity of it all, and cherishing the little moments of magic that make it all worthwhile. 

So here's to us, fellow high-needs parents, navigating the twists and turns of this wild ride together. Remember, you're never alone, and there's always a light at the end of the tunnel—even if it's sometimes obscured by unique behaviors and the occasional meltdown.

Work to embrace the chaos, find joy in the journey, and celebrate the incredible high-needs kids who make it all worthwhile.


Want to hear more real tales and insightful tips on parenting high-needs children?

Head over to my YouTube channel for even more adventures and community support! Subscribe now and join parents navigating the highs and lows of parenthood together.

Brandy Hall, MSN, RN

Meet Brandy—nurse practitioner, parent coach, and fellow mom in the trenches of high-needs parenting.

She’s navigated the sleepless nights, the endless appointments, the sensory battles, the frustration of fighting for answers, the therapy waitlists, and the constant worry of Am I doing enough? With one kid, it was a feeding disorder that no one seemed to take seriously. With the other, it was a whirlwind of sleep struggles, sensory quirks, and safety worries—eventually leading to an autism and ADHD diagnosis.

But she didn’t just sit back and accept the “wait and see” approach. She dug in—researching, advocating, and using her medical background to find real solutions. And along the way, she realized something: moms like her don’t just need more advice—they need real support from someone who gets it.

If you’re raising a child with autism or ADHD and feel like you’re constantly running on fumes, you’re in the right place. Brandy’s here to share what works, what doesn’t, and how to make sure you don’t get lost in the chaos. Because no mom should have to figure this out alone.

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