Ever feel like you're the default manager of every school-related task - lunches, library books, permission slips, and last-minute costume days? The mental load of the school year is relentless, and if you're a neurodivergent mum, it’s even harder.

This episode dives into why the school-year mental load feels so overwhelming and offers practical strategies to help lighten it - without burning out.

In this episode:

Why the mental load is so exhausting - the invisible, never-ending tasks that pile up
Batch planning and automation tips to reduce decision fatigue and keep things running smoothly
Sharing the load with partners, kids, and even external systems to avoid carrying it all alone
Breaking free from perfectionism and letting go of unrealistic societal expectations
Preventing burnout by setting boundaries, redefining priorities, and making space for you

ADHD Mums Facebook community

Follow ADHD Mums on Instagram

ADHD Planner and Personal Values Workbook

Stop People Pleasing episode

Dr Winnicott: “Good Enough” Parenting

The Fair Play Deck Game

A Guide to School Pick-Up for ADHD Mums

JOIN THE COMMUNITY:

Have questions or want to connect with other ADHD mums? Join our supportive Facebook group here and dive into the conversation. No question is too small, and I love answering in a group format!

FOLLOW FOR MORE:

Get daily tips, insights, and relatable content for ADHD mums by following me on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or YouTube

LEAVE A REVIEW:

Love this episode? Your review means everything! It helps other mums find this content and feel supported. Let’s spread the word and make a difference together.

COLLABS:

For collaborations or speaking engagements, email me at jane@adhdmums.com.au.

MORE RESOURCES:

Still unsure if ADHD or autism applies to you or your child? Take my recommended self-tests here.

Topics Covered in This Episode: ADHD mums, mental load, school stress, executive dysfunction, decision fatigue, batch planning, school routines, working mum overwhelm, school organisation, ADHD parenting, school year survival, time management, mum burnout, shared parenting, invisible labour, emotional load, ADHD executive function, school admin stress, automation for mums, family calendar, school lunches, permission slips, neurodivergent mum, ADHD overwhelm, mum guilt, mental load strategies, household management, school planning hacks, ADHD-friendly routines, reducing decision fatigue, parenting with ADHD, ADHD-friendly productivity, school stress relief.

Mentioned in this episode:

ADHD Planner & Personal Values Workbook

Grab your copy now at www.adhdmums.com.au

ADHD Planner

63. Surviving the Mental Load of the School Year