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Episode 91
Ever wondered how to successfully navigate the challenging world of SEND education? Join me, Dr. Olivia Kessel, alongside Alex Stafford from IPSEA, the leading charity for SEND law in England, as we unpack essential strategies and legal know-how to empower parents. Alex shares her personal journey as a SEND parent, shedding light on the common hurdles and misinformation even professionals face. Learn how understanding your rights and leveraging IPSEA's robust resources and helplines can make a significant difference in securing the education your child deserves.
Together, we tackle systemic issues such as inadequate staffing and financial pressures that often leave parents and carers feeling overwhelmed. Discover how parents can hold educational bodies accountable and the importance of complaint mechanisms like the ombudsman. Alex emphasizes the transformative power of volunteering and spreading accurate, law-based information, with inspiring success stories from IPSEA's website illustrating the positive impact of informed advocacy.
Moreover, this episode is packed with practical advice—from navigating school transport rights and securing appropriate school placements to understanding recent changes in school attendance guidance. We highlight the importance of addressing the root causes of non-attendance and advocating for comprehensive support that enhances student well-being. Plus, get actionable parenting tips for effective advocacy, including how tools like ChatGPT can help you craft constructive communication. Don't miss this insightful and empowering conversation that aims to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to advocate effectively for your child's educational needs.www.sendparenting.com
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Join me as I celebrate the 90th episode of the SEND Parenting Podcast with a heartfelt and insightful conversation with my daughter, Alexandra. She opens up about her anxieties and excitements as she faces a new school year, sharing her personal experiences with transitioning from year seven to year eight and participating in activities like Lambda.
Alexandra’s candid reflections offer a unique perspective on the challenges of meeting new students and teachers, and the hope for smoother transitions in the future. Packed with practical advice, this episode is a treasure trove for parents looking to support their neurodiverse children through the back-to-school period.
Learn about the benefits of creating a visual schedule, preparing the night before, and incorporating sensory tools to help your child self-regulate. We also touch on the importance of good sleep, nutrition, and having open lines of communication with both your child and their school.
Whether you’re dealing with school refusal or just looking to make the transition smoother, our strategies aim to create a positive and supportive school experience for your family. Don’t miss out on these invaluable tips and insights that could make a world of difference for your child!www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 89
Unlock the tools to revolutionize neurodiverse education with our special guest, Davy Jones from OpenGenius. This episode unpacks how Ayoa, an AI-powered mind mapping, planning, and time management app, transforms the way neurodiverse individuals visualize projects, manage tasks, and collaborate. Listen as Davy reveals how Ayoa's features can break the barriers of linear thinking and boost dynamic problem-solving and decision-making.
Discover the real-life impact of assistive technology in education, especially for neurodiverse learners. We discuss the importance of proper training for both students and educators to fully leverage these tools. From personal anecdotes to expert insights, we highlight how AI and mind mapping can offer vital support to students with learning difficulties like dyslexia. Learn why schools need to adopt these innovations to enable all students to unlock their full creative potential.
Lastly, we explore the crucial transition to university life and how early access to assistive technology can make this shift smoother for students with disabilities. Davy shares essential tips for parents and educators, focusing on how Ayoa can enhance memory and productivity through creative mind mapping techniques. We also cover practical pathways for obtaining assistive technology support, whether through university assessments or workplace accommodations, ensuring a seamless academic journey for neurodiverse students. Don't miss out on understanding the powerful role of AI in unlocking educational success for all.
Link to AYOYAwww.sendparenting.com
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Episode 88
Meet the secret weapon that will transform your parenting journey, especially if you're raising neurodiverse children. Join Dr. Olivia Kessel as she shares invaluable insights on the absolute necessity of self-care, particularly during the high-stress holiday season. Drawing from personal anecdotes, Dr. Kessel explains how neglecting your own well-being can diminish your ability to effectively meet your child's needs. You'll walk away with practical tips for seamlessly integrating self-care into your daily routine, from prioritizing sleep to finding those precious small moments to recharge.
But that's not all—this episode also tackles the insidious impact of alcohol on stress and sleep, offering healthier alternatives like tapping, breathing exercises, and nature walks. As we gear up for a new school year, Dr. Kessel introduces innovative AI tools, like those from OpenGenius, which are designed to help neurodiverse children organize their thoughts and conquer academic challenges. Don't miss next week's deep dive into these AI solutions with a representative from OpenGenius. Tune in to ensure you and your family have a calm and successful start to the school year.www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 87
Ever wondered why your neurodiverse child struggles with sleep, especially during the holidays? Join Dr. Olivia Kessel on this week's SEND Parenting Podcast as she unpacks the complexities behind sleep issues in children with ADHD and autism. Learn how regular exercise benefits focus into your child's daily routine and mental health by boosting neurotransmitter levels, and get tips on reducing screen time before bed.
She shares personal stories about her daughter's challenges and also delves into the reasons behind active brains, sensory sensitivities and delayed sleep phase syndrome. You'll gain valuable insights into how physical activity—or the lack thereof during holiday breaks—can disrupt sleep patterns even further.
Stay tuned for a sneak peek into our upcoming discussion on the importance of self-care for parents, because taking care of yourself is just as crucial as caring for your neurodiverse child.www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 86
How can the holiday season turn a joyous time into a period of heightened stress for neurodiverse children? Join me, Dr. Olivia Kessel, as I share my personal journey with my daughter Alexandra, who has ADHD, and uncover some of the reasons behind increased emotional and violent outbursts during the summer holidays. We will dive deep into the science behind these behaviors, focusing on understanding these developmental challenges with practical strategies to identify triggers, maintain safety and emphasising the necessity of staying calm to prevent escalation.
Discover effective self-regulation techniques tailored specifically for neurodiverse children. From creating a designated calm space with soothing elements to exploring alternative methods like acupuncture and tapping, I'll share what has worked for Alexandra and countless others. You'll learn the importance of recognizing early warning signs of agitation and strategies to maintain your own calmness as a parent. Plus, I offer three practical tips for navigating the summer holidays: maintaining a consistent routine, incorporating physical activity, and ensuring clear communication and preparation. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that patience, self-care, and understanding are key to supporting a neurodiverse child’s growth and development.www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 85
Imagine planning a dream vacation only to face the unexpected challenge of your child melting down due to the overwhelming changes. Join me, Dr. Olivia Kessel, on the SEND Parenting Podcast as I share my personal experiences with my wonderfully neurodivergent daughter, Alexandra, and break down why seemingly simple changes can feel so monumental for kids with ADHD, autism, and dyslexia.
In the first episode of our summer holidays series, I unpack the medical reasons behind these struggles, discussing everything from heightened sensitivity to sensory input to the strong preference for routine. Learn practical strategies to help your child navigate these transitions more smoothly, starting with the critical step of preparation. This episode is a quick lifesaver for making your holiday break as relaxing and enjoyable as possible for you and your children.www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 84
Tamsyn and Olivia are back this week with a bitesize recap of one of our most unexpected topics from episode 42 - sheep therapy?!
This week we cover the surprisingly profound and transformative power of sheep therapy from our episode with Emma Redman and Pippa Ashton of Ewe Talks. This episode also explores how unexpected breakthroughs in therapy can occur outside traditional settings and the importance of creative thinking and open-mindedness in addressing the unique needs of neurodiverse children or those who have experienced trauma.
We talk the power of nature, and how integrating sheep therapy into activities like gardening or nature walks increases dopamine, leaving children more emotionally regulated and comfortable without even realizing the therapeutic benefits. Plus, we highlight the practical and cost-effective advantages of incorporating these therapeutic tools within schools, fostering a more engaged and supported student community. Listen in to understand how something as simple as interacting with sheep can make a profound difference in mental and emotional well-being.www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 83
We are back this week with another (not so) bitesize episode, which means that we are joined once more by our fantastic bitesize co-host Tamsyn. This week we are throwing all the way back to episode 8 with Sally Greenhalgh, academic and digital lead of the Unicorn School, with whom we discussed how schools can better embrace technology to empower neurodiverse children in education.
Tamsyn and Olivia cover all the incredible information from that episode, like the tech that is out there to support our neurodiverse children like Microsoft Word's dictation and Immersive Reader features, and how they can unlock creativity and story writing in dyslexic and dyspraxic children. We also discuss how these technologies can help children with ADHD and autism as well.
We also discuss why schools are reticent to adopt such transformative technology when it empowers neurodiverse students to showcase their abilities and achieve independence in their learning, meaning for lower-cost SEND support long term. The necessity for schools to embrace technology in the same way society does is emphasized, including the potential of using pupil premium funds to make technology accessible.
Tune in to discover how technology can revolutionize education and make a lasting impact on neurodiverse children's lives.www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 82
Have you ever wondered how dyspraxia affects day-to-day life from childhood into adulthood? Join us on this enlightening episode of the SEND Parenting Podcast, where we're excited to have Rosemary Richings, a talented writer and advocate, share her personal journey with dyspraxia, offering unique insights drawn from her book, "Stumbling Through Time." Together, we unpack the complexities of living with dyspraxia, its impact on daily activities, and how it intertwines with conditions like ADHD and autism.
Rosemary candidly shares personal anecdotes and discusses the ongoing challenges , from time management to misconceptions about "growing out" of dyspraxia to workplace self-advocacy, stressing the importance of educating others about the condition. With practical strategies for breaking down tasks and improving executive functioning, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to better understand and support those with dyspraxia, particularly for parents recognizing dyspraxia in children
This episode ends on a hopeful note, highlighting that with the right support, children with dyspraxia can achieve great things. Tune in for an episode filled with knowledge, compassion, and a message of perseverance.
Rosemary's Linktree
Link to Rosemary's book "Stumbling Through Time."www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 81
So, you have an EHCP - now what? Join us this week as we continue our enlightening two-part conversation with Jenny Hooper, CEO of the Evolving Mind Clinic. Jenny uses her 39+ years of experience working in SEND education (both from a teaching and local authority perspective) to provide a comprehensive break down of anything and everything we may need to know about our EHCPs.
Tune in as we breakdown what each section of the EHCP document is for and how best to use it, red flags in EHCP language, negotiating school choices with your local authority, and legal requirements you might not know you are afforded.
This episode is truly a one-stop shop for empowering parents with the tools and knowledge they need to successfully navigate and use their EHCPs. We are so grateful to Jenny for lending her expertise and hope you find it as useful as we do!
Independent provider of special education advice IPSEA
The Evolving Mind Clinicwww.sendparenting.com
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Episode 80
Are you feeling lost, confused or unsure about getting getting support or an EHCP for your child? Join us this week on the Send Parenting Podcast as we welcome Jenny Hooper, CEO of the Evolving Mind Clinic, to share her 39 years of expertise in teaching and special education needs. Together, we cover the initial steps of identifying when your child requires additional assistance, the ins and outs of SEN support pre-EHCP, and strategies for obtaining an Educational Healthcare Plan (EHCP).
The system for obtaining EHCP's can be incredibly confusing and hard to navigate. In this episode, we deconstruct the whole system, explaining notional budgets for SEN needs and the complexities that schools are dealing with when it comes to student support funding. We demystify the role of local authorities, the significance of Individual Education Plans (IEPs), and the journey from SEND support to statutory assessments, with an emphasis on early intervention and parent-school collaboration.
Finally, we guide you through the EHCP assessment process from start to finish. Learn how to request an assessment, what to expect within the 20-week timeline, and tactics for overcoming challenges if your initial request is denied. This episode is packed with practical advice, empowering you to advocate effectively for your neurodivergent child. Tune in and prepare to navigate the UK education system with confidence.
Independent provider of special education advice IPSEA
The Evolving Mind Clinicwww.sendparenting.com
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Episode 79
This week we are joined by the ADHD coach and advocate, Leanne Maskell to talk all about her journey to late diagnosis and thriving within ADHD.
Through hearing about Leanne's struggles and journey to a late diagnosis at 25, we illuminate a lot of fascinating, lesser-discussed elements of ADHD like rejection-sensitive dysphoria, ADHD in girls, and the genuine mortal danger of late diagnosis.
Through her work in researching, writing, and educating about ADHD, Leanne shares with us how she has learnt to love and appreciate the true strengths of ADHD, and how it can lead to an authentic and individual life. She also shares practical advice in how to support and coach our ADHD children, and dealing with ADHD when combined with screens and the internet.
This episode promises a wealth of knowledge, empathy, and actionable steps for anyone affected by ADHD and is a must-listen for anyone with a child with ADHD.www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 78
Teaching our children to swim is a vital part of preparing our children for the wider world, but for neurodivergent children it can be an uphill struggle. How can we make the world of water can be friendly and safe for children who don't fit the typical mould?
This week we are joined Nicole Martin from Core Aquatics who has dedicated her career to create and teach inclusive swimming programs that cater to neurodiverse children. We talk about how such initiatives can drastically reduce the worrying statistics of drowning in children with autism, what an autism-friendly swimming pool looks like, candid advice on easing kids into the water, overcoming fears, building confidence, and discovering joy.
Nicole's story is one of adaptation and innovation, providing a beacon of hope for parents seeking the right swimming lessons for their unique little ones. We underscore the value of teaching about different water bodies, the creation of muscle memory for safety maneuvers, and how these skills go beyond the pool to oceans and lakes.
Nicole Martin is fundraising for Alex's Wish (justgiving.com) – Charity Wing Walk
Core Aquaticswww.sendparenting.com
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Episode 77
This week I am joined by Olly Stewart, a wonderful speech and language therapist from the Evolving Mind Clinic. This week we are diving into everything about speech and language therapy, what it is, how it works, how you can access it, and parenting tips and tricks from a speech and language perspective.
We dispel the notion that speech and language therapists (SALTs) are only concerned with stammers and lisps, and reveal the transformative role they can have in fostering communication skills vital for children's social development. Olly also shares some practical strategies to enhance children's verbal and non-verbal communication skills, setting the stage for their future success.
Olly's expertise shines a light on the current shortage of SALT professionals and the growing need for their services across diverse contexts, underscoring the collective responsibility to support the communication needs of future generations.
Click here for link to The Evolving Mind Clinicwww.sendparenting.com
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Episode 76
Anxiety in general, but especially in young people and children, is on the rise. That's why I'm thrilled to bring you a conversation with the remarkable Nixon sisters, Emma and Laura, who are pioneering the way we support children grappling with anxiety in the classroom. Our dialogue sheds light on the complex factors contributing to this epidemic, highlighting the residual effects of the pandemic, the digital age, and lifestyle changes. But beyond diagnosing the problem, we're here to offer teachers and parents the tools they need, like the Emotional Freedom Technique, to not only manage but to transform the emotional wellbeing of our children.
We talk about teaching emotional awareness and regulation in our children when we are still learning it in ourselves, the importance of addressing anxiety and stress physically, not just mentally, and look at the toolkit they have created for addressing anxiety in schools like Flexit and the Connection Cone.
This is a vital conversation for anyone looking to equip the next generation with the emotional toolkit they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. Join us in this enlightening journey toward a future where our children's mental health is not just preserved but flourished.www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 75
This week we are back with another bitesize recap episode, meaning that we are also joined by our fantastic co-host Tamsyn Hendry once more! This week we are having a summary discussion of Episode 35 with Emma Wildgoose on Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as "tapping".
This is honestly such a groundbreaking approach to helping our children emotionally regulate and I hope our discussion helps spread the word to more families! We talk how EFT blends Eastern acupressure and Western psychology to help us and our children label our feelings and handle stress and anxiety. We discuss how impactful parent emotions are on our children, talk about the applicability in our schools, and (as with every bitesize episode) share some stories from home.
Tune in, tap into emotional freedom, and watch the transformation unfold in your family's life!www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 74
This week we are joined by Amber Jayne, whose story of resilience from an abusive relationship and breast cancer to establishing a successful preschool unfolds in our latest episode.
We talk all about Amber's journey and the pivotal role of early childhood education and the empowerment it brings, not just to the children, but to mothers crafting their own entrepreneurial endeavors. We chart the course of nurturing from infancy to the brink of school age, and the transformative impact it holds. We also talk navigating screen time with young ones and how to choose the childcare that works for you, and top tips for starting childcare yourself.
We close the episode on a note of simplicity, reminding us all that amidst the cacophony of parenting advice, the simplest acts of love form the cornerstone of our children's well-being.
Click here for Amber's Website The loving start waywww.sendparenting.com
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Episode 73
When my daughter Alexandra was diagnosed with ADHD, it challenged everything I thought I knew, both about the condition itself but also, and more importantly, parenting my child. Having dispelled and debunked all the myths and misinformation there is about ADHD online last week, this episode is a deep dive into the symptoms, issues, and solutions. I approach this subject from the lived experience as a mother to a daughter with ADHD and from a clinical perspective as a doctor.
I deep dive into some of the lesser known ADHD symptoms (like emotional dysregulation), how they have presented and caused issues in our home life, and the accommodations we have made. I cover all kinds of changes we've made like medication, diet, visual aids, sleep hygiene, and school accommodation. I'm here to offer a roadmap of actionable strategies to bring a sense of hope to your family.
Join me for an honest, informative session filled with the tools you need to support your neurodiverse child in a world that's just beginning to understand them.www.sendparenting.com
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Episode 72
The myriad of myths swirling surrounding ADHD create needless barriers to help and support for neurodivergent children and their families. As a medical doctor, mother to a child with ADHD, and devoted advocate for neurodiversity, this week I am wading in to bust these harmful misinformed ideas. But unraveling these misconceptions is more than just myth-busting; it's a vital part of understanding and accepting the complexities of this condition.
I am covering statements like:
- ADHD is caused by bad parenting
- ADHD is caused by too much sugar
- ADHD medication is dangerous
- ADHD is being over diagnosed
- ADHD doesn't exist
- ADHD is just kids being fidgety
- People with ADHD are dumber than neurotypical people
But I don't just leave it there, I also go into the science behind ADHD, how it functions, what causes it, and share my own family's experience with it. Understanding ADHD fullt is crucial for crafting strategies that support our children's successful transition to adulthood, and this episode is your guide to doing just that. Join me as we champion the journey of neurodivergent children towards a thriving future, armed with knowledge and empathy.www.sendparenting.com
- Visa fler
