The Book That’s Opening Big Conversations About Little Brains

Nov 10, 2025

Join Sandhya Menon, a neurodivergent child psychologist and author, as she shares insights into embracing neurodiversity with love and pride. She discusses the importance of early conversations about brain differences and how books like The Brain Forest normalize these discussions at home. Sandhya emphasizes understanding the needs behind behaviors and the significant role schools play in supporting diverse learners. With a focus on community responsibility, she inspires parents to foster self-advocacy in children, creating a more inclusive environment for all.

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INSIGHT

Brain Forest Metaphor

Sandhya Menon compares neurodiversity to a forest where different species coexist without judgment.
This metaphor reframes brain differences as natural variety rather than deficits.

ADVICE

Begin Early With Everyday Language

Start talking about how brains work as soon as children form identity statements like "I am...".
Normalise neurodiversity in everyday language and media before naming a specific diagnosis.

ADVICE

Use Books And Media To Normalize

Normalize representation by using books and TV so children see neurodiversity in ordinary spaces.
Use repeated exposure so conversations about differences become natural at home.

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What if the way your child’s brain works isn’t a problem to fix - but something to celebrate? Neurodivergent child psychologist and author Sandhya Menon, who wrote The Brain Forest, joins Simon and Lachy to explore how we can talk to children about neurodiversity with love, honesty, and pride. She reminds us that understanding different brains isn’t just a parenting skill - it’s a collective responsibility that helps every child feel seen, safe, and included.

HOSTS
Simon Pryce
Lachlan Gillespie

GUEST
Sandhya Menon - @onwardsandupwardspsych
You can find all of Sandhya's books, including The Brain Forest, here.

PRODUCERS
Produced by The Wiggles and Mylk Media
Madeline Joannou
Nick Webb

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About The Wiggles' Podcast - Wiggle Talk

Think you’ve got parenting figured out? So do Simon and Lachy - until the toddler throws a curveball. On Wiggle Talk - a podcast for parents, Red Wiggle Simon Pryce and Purple Wiggle Lachy Gillespie tackle the tricky, funny, and unexpected moments of raising little humans.

Simon, dad to son Asher, and Lachy, father to twin daughters Lulu and Lottie and stepdad to Jasper, share the highs and lows of parenting in the early years. Alongside their own stories, they welcome guests - from parenting experts to well-known personalities - who bring fresh perspectives and practical wisdom to the table.

Each week also features Dear Wiggles - where listeners send in their questions, the things that keep them up at night, or the dilemmas they’d love another parent’s take on. Simon and Lachy talk it through with honesty, and when needed, they call in expert friends to help provide thoughtful advice and reassurance.

With decades of experience in children’s education and entertainment, The Wiggles bring their trademark warmth and playfulness to conversations on everything from sleep and routines to tantrums, play, and the big feelings that come with family life.

Two dads, no filter, figuring it out as they go.

About The Wiggles

For over three decades, The Wiggles have been a beloved cornerstone of children's entertainment, captivating and educating millions of preschoolers—and their parents—around the world. Known for their high-energy performances, catchy songs, and colourful characters, The Wiggles have built a global legacy rooted in the power of music and movement to inspire early childhood learning.

With a mission to make education fun, The Wiggles create content specifically designed for pre-K, preschool, kindergarten, and nursery school age groups. Their unique blend of music, dance, and educational content not only entertains but also helps children understand the world around them. Generations of fans who grew up watching The Wiggles are now sharing that same joy with their own children.

The Wiggles’ impact is truly global: they’ve achieved billions of music streams and YouTube views, and have sold more than 30 million albums and DVDs, along with eight million books worldwide. The Wiggles continue to dominate the preschool entertainment scene, connecting with new generations through various platforms. Their live shows consistently sell out across three continents, and their videos are enjoyed on countless broadcast and digital platforms in over 190 countries.

The Wiggles continue to dominate the preschool entertainment scene, connecting with new generations through various platforms. You can watch them on ABC Kids, Netflix, Prime Video, and Stan, and stream Hot Potato: The Story of The Wiggles on Prime Video. Stay connected by visiting www.thewiggles.com, subscribing to their YouTube channel, and following them on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

The Wiggles' enduring appeal proves that their fun, educational approach to children's entertainment remains as relevant and beloved as ever.

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