Siblings, Schools, and Friends: Navigating PANS/PANDAS Conversations With Kids

One of the hardest parts of a PANS/PANDAS diagnosis isn't just getting the diagnosis—it's figuring out how to talk about it. How do you explain to your child that their brain is under attack by their own immune system? What do you tell siblings who've been walking on eggshells for months? And how much should teachers, friends, and extended family really know? In this episode, licensed clinical social worker Angela Henry joins hosts Krystal Vivian and Lindsey Forsyth for an essential conversation about communication. They break down how to have age-appropriate discussions with children about their diagnosis, why naming the disease can actually be liberating, and how to navigate the delicate balance between privacy and advocacy. From the child who presents about PANDAS to their entire fifth-grade class to the teenager who only confides in one parent, they explore how different families approach these conversations in ways that work for them. Whether you're preparing to tell your child they have PANS/PANDAS, trying to help siblings understand why things feel so unfair, or wondering what to share with your child's school, this episode offers practical guidance rooted in compassion. Because the right conversations, approached with curiosity instead of judgment, can transform a diagnosis from a source of shame into an opportunity for connection, self-awareness, and hope. Read the full transcript of this episode at PANDASMichiana.com. RESOURCES:Surviving The Flares: An Emotional Toolkit For PANS/PANDAS Caregivers — Available wherever you listen to podcasts Claimable https://www.getclaimable.com/ PANDAS Michiana https://pandasmichiana.com/ PANDAS Physician Network https://www.pandasppn.org/ PANDAS Network https://pandasnetwork.org/understanding-pandas/ Angela Henry, LCSW https://angelahenrylcsw.com/services/pandas-pans-ae ASPIRE PANS PANDAS Advocacy, Community & Support Aspire Neuroimmune Foundation Neuroimmune Foundation | Inflammatory Brain Conditions Mind Global Council https://www.mindglobalcouncil.com/ OCD Family Podcast https://www.ocdfamilypodcast.com/ Hornets and Hippos Workbook: https://margaretjessoppsyd.com/hornets-and-hippos/ Parenting Resources: Dr. Ross Greene https://drrossgreene.com/ Dr. Becky Kennedy https://www.goodinside.com/about/ Dr. Dan Siegel https://drdansiegel.com/ Brene Brown (professor and researcher of shame, vulnerability, courage and empathy) https://brenebrown.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.