02/03/2026
Have you ever felt a tiny sting of jealousy when you see other mums getting cuddles and “I love yous”… and your kid just can’t give that kind of affection?
If you’re a special needs mum or an autism mum, this can be so real.
Not because you don’t adore your child.
But because connection can look really different in neurodivergent families.
Some kids show love through proximity, not hugs.
Through sharing a special interest, not eye contact.
Through sitting near you, not “I missed you.”
And yep, sometimes the safest affection in the whole house comes from the dog. ❤️
No demands. No unpredictability. Just warm, steady co regulation.
If this is you, you’re not ungrateful.
You’re human.
Your nervous system is craving softness too.
Tell me in the comments, do you get affection from your child, or do you rely on animal love?
