Conversations with a SEND Mum

In Season 2, Episode 13 of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman chats with Caroline Wallace, founder of The SEN Business Mum, about her experiences with adoption and raising a son with XYY syndrome. They discuss the adoption process, the unique challenges of supporting a child with XYY syndrome, and Caroline's emotional journey, including a desperate moment when she was turned away by a GP.

Episode Highlights:

• The Adoption Process: Caroline shares her adoption story, detailing the steps and emotional journey she underwent to bring her son into her family. She discusses the joys and challenges of adoption, offering insights and advice for other parents considering or going through the process.
• Supporting a Child with XYY Syndrome: Nicole and Caroline delve into what XYY syndrome is and how it impacts her son. Caroline shares strategies that have helped her support her son's development and well-being.
• A Point of Desperation: Caroline recounts a particularly challenging experience when she reached out for help and was turned away by a GP while sobbing. She discusses the emotional toll it took on her and how she found the strength to keep advocating for her son despite the setback. This segment underscores the importance of accessible and compassionate healthcare support for parents and children with special educational needs and/or disabilities.

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Nicole is The Friendly SEND Advisor for children's activity providers and tutors helping them create inclusive sessions for all children.

Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/

Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

In Season 2, Episode 12 of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman sits down with Aisling Owens Nash to discuss the critical importance of parent mental health. They delve into Aisling's experiences parenting neurodivergent children, making strategies fun for the whole family, and a terrifying freeze moment that profoundly impacted her life.

Episode Highlights:

• Parenting Neurodivergent Children: Aisling shares her journey of raising neurodivergent children. She discusses the unique challenges and joys, and how her approach to parenting has evolved over time to meet her children's needs.
• Making Strategies Fun: Nicole and Aisling talk about the innovative and engaging strategies Aisling has implemented to support her children's development. They discuss how to turn everyday activities into fun and therapeutic experiences, making the process enjoyable for both parents and children.
• A Life-Changing Freeze Moment: Aisling recounts a terrifying freeze moment that changed everything for her. She opens up about the emotional and mental impact of this experience and how it led her to prioritise her own mental health. This segment underscores the importance of parent mental health and the ripple effect it has on the entire family.

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Nicole is The Friendly SEND Advisor for children's activity providers and tutors helping them create inclusive sessions for all children.

Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/

Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

In Season 2, Episode 11 of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman chats with Louisa Stanley about her new book "Parenting on a Different Path." Louisa's book brings together 26 stories of parenting children with complex needs. They discuss the common themes and unique aspects of these stories, and Louisa shares her personal journey of parenting her daughter with a genetic syndrome.

Episode Highlights:

• Parenting on a Different Path: Louisa introduces her book, "Parenting on a Different Path" which compiles 26 heartfelt stories from parents of children with complex needs. She explains the inspiration behind the book and the process of gathering and curating these powerful narratives.
• Common Themes and Unique Aspects: Nicole and Louisa explore the similarities and unique aspects of the stories in the book. They discuss common themes such as resilience, advocacy, and the emotional journey of parenting children with complex needs, while also highlighting the diverse experiences and challenges faced by each family.
• Louisa's Personal Journey: Louisa opens up about her own journey of parenting her daughter with a genetic syndrome. She shares the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned along the way, providing insight and encouragement to other parents navigating similar paths.

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Nicole is The Friendly SEND Advisor for children's activity providers and tutors helping them create inclusive sessions for all children.

Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/

Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

In Season 2, Episode 10 of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman sits down with Georgina Durrant from The SEN Resources Blog. They discuss the systemic challenges faced by children with SEND, how to channel frustration into positive action, and strategies from Georgina's upcoming book "SEND Strategies for Primary Years."

Episode Highlights:

• Systemic Challenges in SEND: Nicole and Georgina delve into how children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are often let down by the system. They discuss the common issues and frustrations faced by parents and educators, and the impact these challenges have on children’s development and education.
• Turning Frustration into Positive Action: The conversation shifts to how parents and educators can turn their frustration with the system into positive action. Georgina shares inspiring stories and proactive steps to support children with SEND.
• SEND Strategies for Primary Years: Georgina introduces her new book, "SEND Strategies for Primary Years," which is set to release on June 6th. She provides a sneak peek into the book’s content, highlighting effective strategies that can be implemented at home and in school to support children with SEND. The discussion includes practical tips on creating an inclusive learning environment and fostering positive outcomes for all students.

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Nicole is The Friendly SEND Advisor for children's activity providers and tutors helping them create inclusive sessions for all children.

Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/

Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

In this special episode of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman sits down with Ana Bonasera to discuss the crucial topic of parent carer mental health. Ana shares her personal journey with mental health, the importance of sleep, and why having regulation strategies is vital for parent carers.

Episode Highlights:

• Ana's Mental Health Journey: Ana opens up about her personal experiences with mental health as a parent carer. She discusses the challenges she has faced, the moments of vulnerability, and the steps she has taken towards better mental health and self-care.
• The Importance of Sleep: Nicole and Ana delve into the significance of sleep for parent carers. They discuss how sleep deprivation can impact mental and physical health, and share tips and strategies for improving sleep quality and establishing a better sleep routine amidst the demands of caregiving.
• Regulation Strategies for Parent Carers: The conversation shifts to the importance of having regulation strategies to manage stress and maintain mental well-being. Ana shares practical techniques and practices that have helped her and how you can get involved in her parent/carer mental health summit. www.parentcarerconnect.com

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Nicole is The Friendly SEND Advisor for children's activity providers and tutors helping them create inclusive sessions for all children.

Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/

Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

In Season 2, Episode 8 of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman sits down with Jemma and Lisa from SENDMummies. Together, they share invaluable tips for filling in the DLA (Disability Living Allowance) form, discuss their personal stories, and emphasise the importance of finding and building your community.

Episode Highlights:

• Tips for Filling in Your DLA Form: Jemma and Lisa share practical advice and insights for parents navigating the process of filling in the DLA form. They discuss common challenges, key sections to focus on, and how to effectively communicate your child's needs and challenges to ensure the best possible support.
• Personal Stories: Nicole, Jemma, and Lisa open up about their individual journeys as SEND mums. They reflect on the highs and lows, the lessons learned, and the resilience required to advocate for their children's needs. 
• Importance of Finding Your Community: The conversation highlights the significance of finding and building a supportive community. Jemma and Lisa talk about the creation of SENDMummies, a platform dedicated to connecting SEND parents. They discuss how having a network of understanding and empathetic parents can provide emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of belonging.

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Nicole is The Friendly SEND Advisor for children's activity providers and tutors helping them create inclusive sessions for all children.

Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/

Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

In Season 2, Episode 7 of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman engages in a conversation with fellow mum Jenna Farmer, owner of Mumernity. Together, they explore topics ranging from speech delay and tongue tie to the power of social media advocacy and addressing parent bashing.

Episode Highlights:

• Journey Through Speech Therapy: Jenna shares her journey of navigating speech delay in her son, reflecting on the challenges and the triumphs of early speech therapy interventions. 
• Impact of Tongue Tie on Speech: Nicole and Jenna delve into the topic of tongue tie and its impact on speech development. Jenna shares personal experiences and insights into identifying and addressing tongue tie in her son, highlighting the significance of seeking professional evaluation and treatment options.
• Power of Social Media for the SEND Community: The conversation shifts to the role of social media advocacy in the SEND community. Jenna and Nicole discuss the positive impact of social media platforms in raising awareness, sharing resources, and building supportive networks for parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities.
• Addressing Parent Bashing: Jenna and Nicole address recent comments made by individuals on social media platforms, highlighting the importance of empathy, respect, and support within the parenting community. They advocate for kindness, understanding, and solidarity in navigating the challenges of parenthood and advocating for children with SEND.

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Nicole is The Friendly SEND Advisor for children's activity providers and tutors helping them create inclusive sessions for all children.

Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/

Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

In Season 2, Episode 6 of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman engages in a conversation with Kevin Wrenn, a Dad whose daughter is dyslexic, former school senior leader, and tuition business owner. Together, they delve into the topic of dyslexia, masking in primary school, and the education system.

Episode Highlights:

• Dyslexia and Masking in Primary School: Kevin shares his personal experiences and insights into his journey to dyslexia diagnosis with his daughter, discussing the challenges faced by his daughter in the transition to secondary school. They explore the phenomenon of masking leading to struggles in the classroom.
• Tuition and the Education System: Nicole and Kevin discuss the role of tuition in supporting students with dyslexia and other learning differences. Kevin draws on his expertise as a tuition business owner to share strategies and approaches for providing personalised support and empowering neurodivergent learners to thrive.
• Navigating the Education System: The conversation extends to navigating the complexities of the education system and advocating for all students. Kevin reflects on his experiences as a former school senior leader, highlighting the importance of inclusive practices, early intervention, and collaboration between schools and families.

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Nicole is The Friendly SEND Advisor for children's activity providers and tutors helping them create inclusive sessions for all children.

Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/

Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

*Trigger Warning * Talk of grief, death and cancer. Join host Nicole Bateman for an insightful conversation in Season 2, Episode 5 of "Conversations with a SEND Mum." Nicole welcomes Emma Gray as they explore the complexities of navigating grief as a neurodivergent family.

Episode Highlights:

• Building a Life Around Grief: Emma shares her personal journey of navigating the death of a loved one as a neurodivergent family. They discuss the challenges of processing grief and rebuilding life amidst loss, emphasising the importance of support networks and self-care strategies.
• Sorting Out Sadmin: Nicole and Emma delve into the practical aspects of dealing with administrative tasks (sadmin) while grieving. From managing paperwork to making arrangements, they offer insights and tips for navigating the logistical challenges of loss.
• Sharing News with Children: Emma opens up about the sensitive topic of sharing news of loss with children in a neurodivergent family. They explore age-appropriate communication strategies, fostering open conversations, and providing support and reassurance to children during difficult times.
• Life as a Neurodivergent Family: The conversation extends to the unique dynamics of life as a neurodivergent family navigating grief. Emma and Nicole reflect on the importance of understanding and accommodating neurodivergent needs while processing emotions and seeking comfort.
• Finding Rainbow Moments in Grief: Despite the challenges, Emma and Nicole highlight the importance of finding moments of joy and connection amidst grief. They share inspiring stories of resilience, hope, and finding rainbow moments that bring light and positivity to the journey.

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Nicole is The Friendly SEND Advisor for children's activity providers and tutors helping them create inclusive sessions for all children.

Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/

Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

For Undiagnosed Children's Day 2024, join host Nicole Bateman for a special episode of "Conversations with a SEND Mum." Nicole chats with Claudia Beard, a parent representative for the charity Swan UK, dedicated to supporting families with children who have undiagnosed genetic conditions.

Episode Highlights:

• What is Syndromes Without a Name (SWAN)?: Claudia provides insights into the concept of syndromes without a name (SWAN) and the unique challenges faced by families with undiagnosed genetic conditions. She sheds light on the emotional journey of navigating uncertainties and seeking support within the SWAN community.
• Sharing Hope: Claudia shares her personal journey of hope and resilience, offering encouragement and support to other families navigating similar paths. She emphasises the importance of finding strength in community, advocacy, and celebrating the unique strengths of undiagnosed children.

Note: Learn more about Swan UK and Undiagnosed Children's Day by visiting their website at http://www.geneticalliance.org.uk/swanuk

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Nicole is The Friendly SEND Advisor for children's activity providers and tutors helping them create inclusive sessions for all children.

Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/

Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad