The Importance of Neurokin: Finding Your People Matters
Have you noticed your child light up around certain people?
Perhaps it’s a friend who shares their fascination with coding, or a classmate who never questions their need for quiet time.
These are signs of something powerful: finding their neurokin.
What Is Neurokin?
Neurokin are people who naturally understand your child’s or teen’s way of thinking, feeling, and being.
They may share similar experiences with sensory sensitivities, social needs, or unique interests.
For neurodivergent kids and teens, neurokin offer a rare gift — a space where they don’t have to explain themselves, where their quirks are simply accepted.
Why Does Finding Neurokin Matter?
So many young people spend a huge amount of energy trying to “fit in” or mask their differences.
This can lead to anxiety, exhaustion, or feeling isolated. Being around neurokin, however, brings relief.
Their nervous system can relax, knowing they are understood.
Benefits include:
- Emotional safety – feeling accepted without judgement.
- Greater confidence – realising they are not “too much” or “too different.”
- Resilience and belonging – having people who truly “get it.”
Finding Neurokin for Children and Teens
- Join interest-based groups – coding camps, LEGO clubs, drama groups, or art circles.
- Look for inclusive spaces – neurodivergent-friendly meetups, online forums, or workshops.
- Notice who makes them feel calm – sometimes neurokin are found in everyday settings, like school or extended family.
Supporting Teens Specifically
The teen years bring more independence and self-discovery.
Neurokin relationships can help teens explore identity, find safe social outlets, and develop confidence outside the family unit.
Encourage your teen to:
- Connect through shared passions, whether online or in-person.
- Practise setting healthy boundaries in friendships.
- Recognise that quality friendships (even one or two) can be more meaningful than trying to fit into larger social groups.
Learn More About Finding Neurokin
Watch my full video The Important of Finding Neurokin.
Nurturing These Connections
Once these connections form, support your child or teen in maintaining them.
Gentle encouragement towards regular meetups, shared activities, or online chats can help these relationships grow stronger.
Final Thoughts
For neurodivergent children and teens, finding neurokin can be life-changing.
It’s not just about friendship — it’s about belonging, safety, and celebrating who they are.
As a parent, helping them find and nurture these connections may be one of the most important supports you can offer.