In this episode of the School Can't Experience Podcast, host Leisa Reichelt speaks with Symone Wheatley-Hey, an advocate for neurodivergent voices in education. 

Symone shares her personal journey of navigating 'School Can't' as a sole parent to two neurodivergent children. The discussion covers Symone's experiences with home education, the impact of PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) on schooling, and the transformation her family underwent to overcome educational challenges. 

Symone also discusses the positive changes in her children's school and their re-integration into the education system. 

00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast

00:27 Introducing Symone Wheatley-Hey

02:27 Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

07:58 Freddie's Story: Early Signs and Struggles

11:29 The Challenges of Homeschooling

25:05 Returning to School: A New Beginning

29:24 The Four Corners Experience

33:04 Final Thoughts and Resources

Recommended Resources

• Twinkl (educational resources) - https://www.twinkl.com.au/
• Jonelle Fraser, Aurora Education - https://jonellefraser.com/
• Four Corners Episode - The Kids who Can’t Go to School https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dSdhuqj04vQ 
• Dr Mona Delahooke -
  https://monadelahooke.com
• Dr Ross Greene and Collaborative Proactive Solutions https://livesinthebalance.org
• Dr Alfie Kohn. (Rewards & Motivation) https://www.alfiekohn.org
• Maggie Dent, especially her book “help me help my teen”  https://www.maggiedent.com
• Dr Natalie Thompson is at Charles Sturt University 
  https://study.csu.edu.au/find-courses/short-courses/microcredential-courses/intro-disability-affirming-classrooms  
• Love after love by Derek Walcott 

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If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-you

You can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on [email protected]

Disclaimer
The content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist, or other qualified professional.