Since early childhood, I have been an avid reader and writer, fascinated with the world around me and within me. When in my early teens, I remember reading an article that dove into the science of the human brain. I was absolutely fascinated by the intricate sophistication and limitless potential of what was known to us, and yet to be known to us.
Fast forward decades later; having studied and worked within a wide scope of human sciences and healing modalities… the ONE core premise I have been fulfilling and continue to fulfill (regardless of the professional hat I wear in the moment), is that of reawakening and reactivating inherent wisdom.
In various ways and at various times in life; i would override this in myself; but more strikingly obvious to me, having worked with thousands of neurodiverse children and their families across the globe; was the way inherent wisdom was, and still is, being overridden in our children. This is particularly true for neurodiverse kids, whose extraordinary perspectives challenge us to reimagine what’s possible. These children, have been my greatest teachers.
I believe the most overlooked and silenced gifts children (and we) possess is natural intuition or inherent wisdom. For those of you reading this who are parents/ carers or professionals who work with children, you would resonate with the countless (and sometimes confronting) reminders children share; of what it actually means, to be a human (aka, a creator). We witness children born, deeply connected to their instincts and inner wisdom, often knowing more than we realize or give credit to.
Yet, this superpower is frequently overridden, often unintentionally, or with well-meaning intention; to prioritise structure, conformity, and external validation.
To truly unlock the limitless potential in ourselves and our children, we must commit to nurturing and activating this intuitive brilliance.
Here are 3 simple yet powerful ways to celebrate and support this inherent gift.
1️⃣ Honor Inner Knowing
Children often have a deep sense of what feels right or wrong for them, but their voices can get lost in the noise of adult expectations. We too can do the same amongst societal, cultural and self-expectations. We want to encourage kids to trust their gut feelings by asking open-ended questions like, “What are your feelings about this?” or “What does your heart say?”As adults we can ask ourselves these questions too.
This reinforces the practice of tuning into something deeper than thought processes to access more true, and aligned inner guidance.
2️⃣ Create Space for Stillness and Play
Intuition thrives in moments of quiet and creativity. We can all relate to our best ideas and problems being solved, when we are engaged in tasks and activities that are not cognitively loaded. E.g. having a shower, washing dishes, walking in nature, journalling etc.
When it comes to our kids, releasing the need to structure and overschedule their days is important. Unstructured play and spending time in nature/ outdoors, is crucial, to tap into their imaginative and intuitive selves. These moments of freedom help them connect to their true essence without external pressures.
We can all relate to this. It begins by setting the intention.
3️⃣ Model and Validate Intuition
Regardless of age, we all learn by example. When you share how you’ve trusted your instincts in a situation, you show and normalise that intuition is a valuable tool for decision-making. When it comes to children, validate their intuitive choices by acknowledging their insights, even if they differ from your own.
By nurturing the intuitive and creative gifts within ourselves and the children in our lives, we’re not just supporting their personal growth—we’re creating a future where diverse thinking and innate wisdom thrive.
Let’s celebrate the brilliance that resides in our unique perspectives and honor the innate wisdom it brings to the global table.
It all starts with ourselves, and saying YES to accessing the limitless potential that lies within.
We are after all, here to flourish… may we flourish together!
Sonia xo
