Episode 43 

This week we are introducing an episode of our bitesize podcast in which our host Olivia and SEN advisor Tamsyn Hendry sit down for a short discussion of the top takeaways from some of our favourite episodes.

For this bitesize episode we're thrilled to discuss the significant themes from episodes 22 and 23 with Ellie Costello. We're reminding ourselves of some of our favourite wisdom from these episodes about dealing with the education system: dealing with the infamous label of "anxious mothers", the loss of identity and respect as parents, and the clashing medical and social models of education. 

We hope to be releasing some more episodes like this scattered throughout the year, providing a short digestible format to summarise the insights of all our incredible guests. But we're not stopping there - we want your thoughts on the episode! Remember, you're part of a supportive parenting tribe, and your voice matters.

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Episode 42

Get ready to be swept off your feet by Emma and Pippa, the brainy duet behind EWE Talk, a non-profit like no other. Armed with a flock of sheep and a passion for mental wellness, they're breaking barriers in the most heartwarming way. Their work is focused on using the calming nature of sheep therapy and the power of outdoor environments to help neurodiverse children and those grappling with mental health issues.

Join us as we discuss the incredible power of nature to aid those who find the norms of the everyday difficult to navigate. This isn't a fluffy farm story, but a groundbreaking mission to harness the flock instinct of sheep to aid self-regulation. From how stroking animals lowers cortisol to stories of individuals who have, with the help of the flock, uncovered their untapped potential and formed meaningful connections.

So, join us for this inspiring conversation as we reshape our views on therapeutic intervention!

Click here for link to EWE Talk

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Episode 41

What if we told you that happiness could be at the heart of our children's education? Join us for this eye-opening conversation with Adrian Bethune, teacher and founder of Teach Happy, as we explore the importance of well-being in schools and how this can lead to more engaged, motivated learners.

We dive into all sorts of topics in this episode: creating autonomy in students, fostering strong relationships between teachers and parents, the three pillars of intrinsic motivation, and creating a sense of belonging in the full diversity of minds in the classroom.

Don't miss this inspiring episode that will challenge your perception of education, empower teachers, and help parents work closely with schools to create a fulfilling, happier learning experience for all children.

Click here to access Teach Happy

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Episode 40

Ever feel like you're wandering in a maze trying to understand the UK educational system for your neurodiverse child? Join us in this enlightening episode as Catherine, a fellow parent, and I take a deep dive into our personal journeys, grappling with the complexities of private assessments for children with special educational needs. We bring our experiences to the table, highlighting the process, the rational, cost, value and limitations of a private assessment. If you have been wondering if a private assessment is the right path for you and your child this is the podcast to empower you with information so you can make an informed decision.

We also discuss the more emotionally complicated sides of seeking diagnoses - when and how should we disclose it to our children themselves? Tune in, as are two parents sharing our personal experiences and hard-earned wisdom to lighten the burden for you.

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Episode 39

Have you ever wondered how neurodivergence impacts individuals in the sports world? Imagine trying to strive for excellence in an environment where you're constantly misunderstood and scrutinized, both physically and mentally. That's the challenging journey our guest, ex-Olympian rower Caragh McMurtry, has navigated. Diagnosed with later in life with autism, Caragh opens up about her battles, including being misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder, overmedication, and her struggle to fit into a restrictive mold within the sports realm. Listen in, as she shares the inspiration behind Neurodiverse Sport -- her platform advocating, supporting, and educating about neurodiversity in sports.

We also dive deep into how to foster growth and independence among neurodivergent children within a sports setting and Caragh shares valuable advice on how to encourage resilience and self-reliance among children, allowing them to embrace their uniqueness and flourish. Join us for this enlightening discussion that offers a fresh perspective on the challenges and opportunities for neurodivergent athletes in the sports world. Don't miss out on this eye-opening conversation that could change how you view sports, coaching, and neurodiversity.

Link to Neurodiverse sport founded by Caragh McMurtry

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Episode 28

Ever wondered how our diet could influence our brain? Can nutrition be a game-changer in managing ADHD?  This week Lucinda Miller, ADHD-er and naturopath with over two decades of experience in pediatric nutrition, joins us to illuminate the intriguing connection between nutrition and ADHD.

Did you know the brain needs essential nutrients to regulate dopamine levels, which are critical in managing ADHD? With Lucinda we explore the critical nutrients involved in this, like tyrosine, iron, zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D. We also learn how to spot signs of iron and zinc deficiencies in our children.

While discussing how to introduce these nutrients into our children's diets we also delve into the art of positive communication around nutrition in the family home, and how to mindfully talk about food without triggering obsessive behaviours. Tune in to this enlightening episode, packed with practical advice and insights on the fascinating interaction between nutrition and ADHD.

Please click here for link to Lucinda's ADHD nutrition course

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Episode 37

Struggling to navigate SEND provision in mainstream schools for your child? Fear not, as this week SEND Consultant Tamsyn Hendry returns to provide valuable insights and advice on everything SEND support related.

Tamsyn provides us a thorough overview of everything you need to know concerning supporting your SEND child through mainstream schools. From useful resources all parents should make use of (like local offers), to the systems (like local authority graduated response) that can pave the way for an EHCP application.

Join us as Tamsyn breaks down SEND Support Arrangement Plans, essential documents containing invaluable information about your child, including critical reviews. These plans play a pivotal role when collaborating with speech and language therapists, community pediatricians, or occupational therapists.  Furthermore, she provides help on how to access the right advice and support. Don't miss out on the two free downloadable resources we're sharing on our website to help parents comprehend their child's needs and the support they can access (link below).

Please visit www.sendparenting.com to download free information on SEND advice and Understanding the local offer and graduated response

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Episode 36

Join us for a captivating conversation with seasoned teacher and SENDCO, Ginny Bootman, as we follow her journey from head teacher to being the SENDCO of four primary schools and the advice she has along the way. Ginny, a beacon of knowledge and experience, underscores and offers advice for the crucial role of fostering strong rapport between parents, children, and teachers, urging the necessity of SENDCO training. Tune in to learn how her hands-on approach in the classroom and strategic systems ensure that no child's needs are overlooked.

Our dialogue also navigates through the compelling topic of making education more accessible for children with additional needs. We dissect the possible advantages of the Green Paper, the inconsistencies in funding and systems, and the pressing demand for more specialist schools. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone with a stake in education.

Click here to access Ginny Bootman's book 'Being a SENDCO - 113 Tips for building relationships, saving time and changing lives' - enter SEND20 to get 20% discount

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Episode 35

What if there was a simple technique at your fingertips that could help manage your emotions and assist your neurodiverse child in navigating their own? Ever hear of Emotional Freedom Technique? Join us this week as we delve into an intriguing conversation with seasoned nutritionist, coach and Emotional Freedom Technique therapist, Emma Wildgoose. We explore the fascinating realm of EFT (sometimes also known as 'tapping'), how it works, and how it can help facilitate emotional well-being for both parents and children.

We do a deep dive into everything EFT: Emma enlightens us as to the origins of EFT, why the parents of children being treated with EFT also undergo treatment, and how seemingly simple tapping techniques help soften the extremes of emotions.

We discuss more widely the importance of safeguarding parents' emotional wellbeing and the large part this plays in children's' emotional wellbeing. We also explore how EFT techniques can be particularly useful to neurodivergent children, helping them manage their sensitive nervous systems while navigating a world not designed for them and empowering them to share this with others. Emma also shares with us top tips for practicing EFT at home - not an episode to miss!

Click here for EFT Tapping points

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Episode 34

What is the purpose of education? Can schooling really meet the unique needs of every learner? What happens when the system that's supposed to educate us all, falls short? This week Dr. Olivia Kessel rolls up her sleeves with guest Dr. Chris Bagley to dissect the challenges of our current cookie-cutter education system. Bagley helps us unmask the stark realities of a system designed to fail a third of its students, sharing with us his professional experiences as an educational psychologist in schools and prisons, and his research into the historical origins of of our modern school system. We explore the lasting damage a rigid system can do, and the paradox that teachers, students, and parents alike face everyday. 

But it's not all gloom; we'll also spotlight transformative work being done by educational innovators. It's about understanding the system, questioning it, and adopting innovative approaches to make it work for everyone. So, join us as we initiate this crucial conversation about overhauling an outdated system and nurturing an educational landscape that truly serves all students. It's time to flip the script on education – are you ready?

Click for more information on Dr Chris Bagley

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