Understanding PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance): A Practical Workshop for

Does your child resist everyday demands, even things they enjoy?

Do traditional strategies seem to make things worse rather than better?

You’re not alone.

Join us at Wildflower Meadows for a supportive and practical workshop exploring Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)—a profile within the autism spectrum characterised by an anxiety-driven need to avoid demands.

This session will be delivered in collaboration with Abbie Petrie from Abbie’s Achievers, a specialist tutoring service, bringing hands-on, real-world experience supporting children with PDA alongside our relational, trauma-informed approach.

🌿 What You’ll Learn

• What PDA is and how it presents
• Understanding anxiety-driven demand avoidance
• Why traditional behaviour strategies often don’t work
• Practical, low-demand approaches that do help
• Supporting emotional regulation and reducing overwhelm
• Building trust, flexibility, and connection
• How to advocate for your child in school and beyond

🤝 Who This Is For

• Parents and carers of children with a PDA profile (diagnosed or suspected)
• Families experiencing high levels of anxiety or demand avoidance
• Those feeling stuck, exhausted, or unsure what to try next

💡 What to Expect

• A relaxed, welcoming environment
• Practical, realistic strategies you can actually use
• Honest conversations about what works (and what doesn’t)
• Opportunities to ask questions
• Supportive connection with other parents

🌼 About the Facilitator

Abbie Petrie is the founder of Abbie’s Achievers, a specialist tutoring service supporting children with additional needs. Abbie has extensive experience working with children with a PDA profile and is passionate about helping families find approaches that reduce anxiety and build trust.

🌿 About Wildflower Meadows

Wildflower Meadows CIC is an alternative provision based in Burghfield Common, supporting children and young people who face barriers to mainstream education. Our approach is relational, trauma-informed, and centred around each child’s individual needs.

📍 Event Details

Location:
Online

Date & Time:
Thursday 17th September
6:00pm – 8:00pm

Spaces are limited to keep the session supportive and interactive.

We look forward to welcoming you 🌼