Just when we thought we’d turned a corner in the COVID war, the Delta variant made all of us more nervous than we might already be. It’s worrisome for parents, educators, and students — all of whom are navigating wearing masks with quality instruction, engaged learning, and safe socializing. This complicated transition back to school has been especially tough for kids with ADHD, LD, ASD, and twice-exceptionality. These neurodiverse kids, who already struggle with anxiety and emotional regulation, often become more stressed, worried, and reactive. As parents and caring adults, when you too may be confused or frustrated in this uncertain time, it can be difficult to put aside your feelings and be patient with kids’ questions, concerns, or acting out behaviors. When you consider these numerous academic and social challenges, it is tough to know how to support our children and teens effectively every day. Naming and talking about these struggles, demonstrating compassion and consistency, and nurturing cooperation are the best ways to ease tension, reduce conflict and nurture resilience.

Improving cooperation with children and teens begins with listening and observing what they are saying and showing you with their words and behaviors. Many kids are well beyond…