Discover why your child may be struggling socially or emotionally, and learn 5 practical ways to support them with Nonverbal Learning Disorder
You’re at a birthday party. The balloons are popping, the kids are running wild, and your child who was excited five minutes ago is now clinging to you, tears brimming, refusing to join in. Another parent says cheerfully, “Oh, he’s just shy,” but you know it’s something more. He missed the unspoken social rules, didn’t understand the group game instructions, and now, overwhelmed, his body is shutting down.
For parents of children with Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NLD), this scenario isn’t rare it’s a weekly, even daily, challenge.
NLD is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects a child’s ability to understand nonverbal communication like tone, body language, facial expressions, and social context. Children with NLD are often highly verbal sometimes even gifted with words which can make their deeper social and emotional difficulties confusing for parents, teachers, and even professionals.
What Are the Social Struggles?
Children with NLD can:
- Misread social cues like sarcasm, eye contact, or personal space
- Struggle to take turns or follow the flow of conversation
- Be overly literal and miss implied meanings or jokes
- Have trouble adapting to new social settings, group games, or unstructured time
- Be perceived as “bossy,” “awkward,” “rude,” or “too sensitive”
These difficulties aren’t due to rudeness or lack of care they’re rooted in how your child processes and interprets the world. That gap between intention and interpretation can leave them feeling rejected, anxious, or isolated.
And What About the Big Emotions?
Because they don’t always understand why things are going wrong socially, children with NLD often experience:
- Frequent meltdowns, especially in noisy, unpredictable environments
- Anxiety, especially around social performance or change
- Low frustration tolerance, especially when routines are disrupted
- Difficulty self-soothing or naming what they feel
Big feelings bubble up because their internal world is often one of confusion, rejection, and sensory overload. The emotional toll is real on them, and on you.
5 Ways You Can Support Your Child
Here’s where you come in not with all the answers, but with understanding, structure, and support.
1. Explain the Social World
Break down social rules explicitly. Role-play, use visuals, and talk about body language or tone like it’s a second language (because it is, for them).
“When someone steps back while you’re talking, it might mean they need more space. You didn’t do anything wrong they’re just giving themselves room.”
2. Create Predictable Routines Before Social Events
Prepare your child with a clear run-down of what to expect who will be there, what will happen, and when they can take breaks. A quick visual checklist before a party or school day can reduce anxiety and emotional build-up.
3. Build in Recovery Time
Social situations are exhausting. Let them decompress with something familiar and calming whether it’s LEGO, drawing, or cuddling a pet. Downtime isn’t a luxury, it’s emotional regulation in action.
4. Name and Validate Emotions
Help them put words to what they’re feeling. “You seem upset. Was it hard when the game rules changed?” Naming emotions builds insight and over time, self-control.
5. Get the Right Support
You don’t have to do this alone. A psychologist experienced with NLD and neurodivergent kids can help with emotional regulation strategies, social learning, and parent coaching. Even a few sessions can give you clarity, language, and tools.
You’re Not Failing. This Is Hard and You’re Showing Up
If you’re reading this, you’re already doing something powerful, seeking to understand your child more deeply. Parenting a child with NLD can be isolating. Their challenges are often misunderstood, and you may feel like you’re constantly explaining or defending. But you’re not alone and with the right insight and strategies, things can get easier.
At Creating Change Psychology, we walk alongside families navigating NLD, helping both children and parents build confidence, connection, and calm.
Looking for support? Book a session with one of our experienced child psychologists today. Together, we can create change that lasts. Our warm and experienced team of psychologists is here to walk alongside you whether you’re navigating the daily struggles of NLD, emotional outbursts and social challenges. Reach out today, and let’s take that first step together toward calm, connection, and hope. Call us on 02 8883 3185 or email us below.
Written by Clinical Psychologist Rebecca Deane – www.creatingchange.net.au
Psychology support in the Hills District, Western Sydney & Surrounds (including Rouse Hill, Bella Vista, Glenwood, Castle Hill, Kellyville, The Hawkesbury, Penrith Nepean, Blacktown, Epping, Ryde, Pennant Hills areas and surrounds)
