In our diverse classrooms, we encounter a broad range of minds, each with its unique way of perceiving and interacting with the world. Among these, some students experience emotions and interactions more intensely than others, processing their environment with heightened sensitivity and responding with powerful expressions of their needs and feelings. These students, who have … Read more
ADHD and Codependency Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and codependency are two distinct psychological conditions that, when co-occurring, can create a complex web of challenges for individuals. This article aims to explore the intricate relationship between ADHD and codependency, shedding light on how these conditions interact, their impact on personal relationships, and effective strategies for management and … Read more
Creating an Effective Calming Corner For Self-Regulation For many neurodivergent students, including those with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences, the classroom environment can sometimes feel overwhelming. Creating a calming corner can provide a safe space for self-regulation, helping these learners manage their emotions and sensory experiences more effectively. This article will guide you through … Read more
Elopement Behavior in Autistic Students When a child elopes, it’s often a window into their inner world—a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, confusing, or simply too intense. Elopement isn’t just about leaving a physical space; it’s a complex behaviour that speaks volumes about a child’s emotional state and needs. Imagine being in a place … Read more
Air travel necessitates planning. This is particularly valid in cases where your child possesses health issues or particular requirements like autism. That whole preparation phase can be extremely draining for parents and other caretakers! However, families don’t have to give up on exploring new locations and creating moments with one another. As with any ability, … Read more
Sensory Breaks: Supporting Neurodiverse Students in the Classroom In today’s diverse classrooms, recognising and accommodating the sensory needs of all students, including those who are neurodivergent, is crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Regular sensory breaks throughout the school day are essential for helping students regulate their nervous systems and maintain focus … Read more
The Therapeutic Nature of Play Play is a fundamental aspect of childhood, inspiring awe and wonder as children explore and problem-solve, learning about the world around them each step of the way. While the benefits of play for physical development are clear—enhancing motor skills and coordination through the manipulation of resources, its therapeutic value has … Read more
A Teacher’s Guide to Somatic Competency In today’s dynamic classrooms, teachers face the ongoing challenge of promoting self-regulation, emotional intelligence, and positive behaviour among their students. One approach gaining traction is developing somatic competency. The ability to perceive, interpret, and respond to internal bodily cues and sensations. What is Somatic Competency? Somatic competency, or interoceptive … Read more
Oppositional Defiant Disorder: A Neurodiversity-Affirming Approach Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by a persistent pattern of defiant, disobedient, and disruptive behaviours toward authority figures. Pupils with ODD often present significant challenges in the classroom, testing the patience and skills of even the most experienced teachers. However, it is crucial to recognize … Read more
Utilising Top-Down and Bottom-Up Processing in Special Education Teaching “I can read the words, but I don’t understand what it’s saying.” This frustration, echoed by many students with learning difficulties, highlights the complex interplay between decoding text and comprehending its meaning. When working with SEN learners, understanding the intricate processes that govern learning is paramount, … Read more
As part of a neurodiverse family and working in the field of SEN (Special Educational Needs) this article – Why the Neurodiversity Movement Has Become Harmful by Moheb Costandi, a molecular and developmental neurobiologist, the author of Body Am I (2024) didn’t chime with what we believe or are trying to achieve at school. The article presents … Read more
Fun and Cheap Weekend activities for autistic children Weekends offer a refreshing change of pace from the school routine. For families with autistic children, weekends are an opportunity to prioritise quality time while nurturing skills and interests and getting children/teenagers off their screens. Weekend outings and activities can be fun for the whole family. We … Read more
Introduction to Pica and its Impact in School The American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) defines pica as eating nonnutritive, nonfood substances over at least one month. The term is derived from “pica-pica,” the Latin word for the magpie bird, because of the bird’s indiscriminate gathering and eating … Read more
Developing Essential Cognitive Abilities: Nurturing Executive Function in the Classroom What are Executive Functioning Skills? Executive function skills are a set of mental abilities that act like the brain’s air traffic controller. They help us organize our thoughts, prioritize tasks, manage our time, control our impulses, and adapt when things don’t go as planned. Essentially, … Read more
What is AuDHD and is it a Special Educational Need? Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD or AuDHD if you have both) is a topic of significant interest in the realm of education. As educators, parents, and professionals, understanding the relationship between ADHD, Autism and Special Educational Needs (SEN) is crucial for providing effective … Read more
An Inclusive Summer Holiday Bucket List for Neurodiverse Families The Summer holidays are here (or approaching), which means fun in the sun and plenty of opportunities for memory-making! As a parent raising neurodivergent children, you know that keeping kids engaged and having a good time isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve put together the ultimate … Read more
What Is Natural Environment Teaching (NET)? Natural environment teaching (NET) emphasizes teaching skills in the child’s natural settings and daily routines, aligning with their interests and motivations. Despite its play-based nature, NET is a structured method that effectively targets communication, socialization, and other essential skills. This is not an article supporting the approach but sharing … Read more
Advocating for Your SEN Child Navigating the UK school system, especially when your child has special educational needs, can be daunting. The complexity of Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs) and various processes can leave parents feeling overwhelmed. However, as an SEN parent, you have the power to advocate for your child effectively. Here’s a … Read more
Building an Effective Teaching Assistant Team in School Effective collaboration is essential for teaching assistants (TAs) to provide the best possible support for students and teachers in UK schools. When TAs work together as a cohesive team, drawing on each other’s strengths and working towards shared goals, it can have a tremendously positive impact on … Read more
As a dedicated teacher in the U.K., my passion lies in nurturing young minds and helping every child reach their full potential. However, the reality of catering to the diverse needs of students, particularly those with Special Educational Needs (SEN), within the constraints of the current education system, is a daunting challenge. I will tell … Read more
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