The Sunfield Center Blog

  • Safety Tips in Gaming Spaces

    By: Eddie Ozor, MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    February 20, 2026

    Online gaming can bring a strong sense of joy, connection, and community for neurodivergent individuals. However, these spaces can also present unique vulnerabilities. Understanding these dynamics helps us guide safer, more positive experiences for children and teens.

  • Meltdown, Burnout, or Shutdown: Understanding Emotional Overload

    By: Kamila Charles, MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    February 13, 2026

    Emotional overload is something that anyone can experience in today’s fast-paced world. blog breaks down the science, signs, and strategies for responding to the three stress responses of emotional overload: meltdown, burnout, and shutdown.

  • Supporting Neurodivergent Kids with Friendship Skills

    By: Erna Chiu, MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    February 5, 2026

    Social skills are often learned through trial and error, subtle experiences, and feedback from parents or peers. For many neurodivergent individuals, picking up on the unspoken rules and expectations that shape social situations can be especially challenging. Read on to learn how you can support your kids..

  • School Supports: IEPs vs. 504 Plans

    By: Alessia Odell, M.Ed, MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    January 27, 2026

    Do you think your child needs special education services but don’t know where to begin? With so many acronyms and legal terms floating around, it might feel like you need a law degree to understand your rights, but rest assured, this blog is here to make things clearer so you can advocate confidently for your child.

  • Balancing Digital Use and Emotional Well-Being in Children

    By: Kamila Charles, MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    January 9, 2026

    Understanding how children use screens, and the emotional needs being met, is essential for supporting healthy development. As families navigate the growing presence of screens at home and in school, questions often arise and we have some research-based tips for you.

  • Understanding Sensory Differences (Part II)

    By: Alessia Odell, M.Ed., MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    December 19, 2025

    In Part I of this blog series, the eight senses that shape how we perceive and interact with the world were discussed. In Part II, we get into signs of sensory dysregulation and tips for supporting your loved ones. By being proactive, observant, and responsive to individual needs, we can help children navigate their environments with confidence and minimize distress before it escalates.

  • Embracing Neurodiversity

    By: Eddie Ozor, MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    December 12, 2025

    It is crucial that we begin building environments flexible enough for all kinds of minds to thrive. Small, respectful adjustments from a few of us become the rising tide that lets all of us breathe easier, think more clearly, and finally belong exactly as we are.

  • Considerations for Neurodivergent Youth When Navigating Grief and Loss

    By: Siba Alzohaili, MA, LLP and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    November 21, 2025

    Children and teens, unfortunately, experience grief and loss just as adults do, but their experiences are often misunderstood or misinterpreted. Read on for more information, resources, and tips to navigate supporting your children through grief.

  • Navigating Teens and Relationships

    By: Eddie Ozor, MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    November 13, 2025

    Navigating relationships as a neurodivergent teen with ASD or ADHD can offer opportunities for growth and connection when approached with self-awareness and support. By focusing on healthy dynamics, boundaries, and authentic partnerships, these teens can thrive.

  • Breaking Down Barriers: Mental Health in Latino Communities

    By: Kamila Charles, MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    October 31, 2025

    Stigma doesn’t just impact individuals—it affects entire families. Breaking through stigma begins with open, safe conversations at home. Read on for more tips and resources...

  • Understanding Sensory Differences (Part I)

    By: Alessia Odell, M.Ed., MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    October 17, 2025

    Everyone experiences the world in their own unique way, shaped by eight senses. By taking the time to understand how children (and adults) perceive and respond to sensory experiences, we can begin to uncover the underlying causes of emotions and behaviors that might otherwise seem puzzling or disruptive.

  • Strategies for Maintaining School Habits

    By: Erna Chiu, MSW Intern and Juno Ottathengil, LLMSW

    October 3, 2025

    The start of a new school year often comes with many new responsibilities, but you can help your child develop good habits that can support them academically, organizationally, and socially—not just now, but for the future. Read on for tips and resources...

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