Afleveringen

  • Episode 96

    Award-winning neurodiverse director and producer Stephen Bailey joins us to share his compelling journey from history and law to the vibrant world of theater. Diagnosed with neurodivergence in his mid-20s, Stephen found his true calling in directing, creating powerful productions like "The Real Imagined History of the Elephant Man." As the artistic lead at Vital Exposure, a disabled-led theater company, he is committed to pushing the boundaries of accessibility and inclusivity in the arts, offering a fresh perspective on how neurodivergent individuals can thrive creatively.

    Navigating the complexities of professional environments, especially in the arts, Stephen candidly discusses the challenges of advocating for access accommodations and the emotional labor of self-advocacy. He shares insightful strategies for adapting communication in job applications and interviews, highlighting the importance of access riders and reasonable adjustments. By addressing the evolving nature of recruitment processes and emphasizing the transformative power of access support, Stephen sheds light on fostering empowering environments for neurodivergent individuals in the arts sector.

    Immerse yourself in a conversation that celebrates the richness of neurodiversity and explores innovative approaches like dual language captioning and the use of tech to enhance accessible theater. Stephen's insights offer hope and inspiration, drawing attention to the growing recognition of neurodiversity and disabilities and the vital role that art plays in societal change. From empowering young audiences with accessible performances to championing inclusive narratives, this episode promises to broaden your understanding of inclusivity in the arts and beyond.

    Join the SEND Parenting Community on Whatsapp either click here or send a message to +447856915105 and I will personally add you to the private group where we can connect and support each other.


    Click here for Vital Xposure
    Click here for the upcoming production Blackbird Hour by Babirye Bukilwa

    www.sendparenting.com

  • Episode 95

    What if you could unlock the secrets of your DNA to enhance the well-being of your neurodiverse child? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jill Crowfoot a seasoned GP and founder of Renude Health, as she shares her groundbreaking insights on personalized nutrition and genetic testing. She explains how understanding your genetic makeup can guide you in making tailored nutritional and lifestyle choices, particularly for neurodiverse children. We discuss the limitations of traditional medicine that often focus on symptoms rather than root causes, and how this innovative approach can shift the focus from treating illness to fostering proactive wellness.

    Explore with us the complex relationship between hormones, genetics, and personalized nutrition. Dr. Crowfoot unravels the intricate interplay between sex hormones and nervous system hormones, and the impact of hormonal imbalances on neurodiverse individuals. Through fascinating analogies and expert insights, she emphasizes the necessity of personalized nutrition and genetic analysis in meeting unique biochemical needs. Our discussion delves into the context-dependent nature of certain genes and the importance of professional guidance to navigate this complex landscape, revealing how genetics can inform more effective health interventions.

    Dr. Crowfoot's passion for women's health and personal experiences as a mother illuminate the benefits of integrating genetics with lifestyle changes for conditions like ADHD and perimenopause. By examining the influence of lifestyle on gene expression, we underscore the importance of a holistic approach that incorporates nutrition, lifestyle, and hormonal balance. This episode challenges the traditional medical model and advocates for a more comprehensive understanding of health, moving beyond prescriptions to embrace a more informed and personalized approach to wellness.

    Join the SEND Parenting Community on Whatsapp either click here or send a message to +447856915105 and I will personally add you to the private group where we can connect and support each other.

    Click here for RENUDE Health

    www.sendparenting.com

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  • Join the SEND Parenting Community on Whatsapp either Click Here or send a message to 07856 915 105 and I will personally add you to the private group where we can connect and support each other.

    What if traditional parenting methods are doing more harm than good? Join us as we welcome Dr. Naomi Fisher and Eliza Fricker, co-authors of the enlightening new book "When the Naughty Step Makes Things Worse," to challenge popular parenting wisdom. This episode promises a fresh perspective on raising neurodivergent children and the liberation that comes from understanding each child's unique needs. Naomi and Eliza share their personal journeys, illustrating how low demand parenting can transform pressure-filled homes into nurturing environments.

    We unravel the concept of low demand parenting, emphasizing the importance of respecting a child's stress limits and sensitivities. Naomi and Eliza argue that good parenting cannot be judged solely by a child's behavior, especially when dealing with neurodivergence. By embracing empathy over control, parents can foster deeper connections and encourage true growth. We also delve into the science behind the genetic and environmental factors that shape our children, urging parents to let go of societal expectations and focus on their child's individual path.

    Screen time often gets a bad rap, but this episode reimagines it as a tool for connection rather than isolation. Learn how to engage with your children's digital lives constructively, turning screen time into meaningful moments. We tackle the pervasive fears parents have about their children's futures, discussing the importance of being present and supportive through their unique journeys. Finally, Naomi and Eliza highlight the necessity of authenticity and self-care in parenting, ensuring that we're not only meeting our kids' needs but also nurturing our well-being.

    Click here to order When the Naughty Step Makes Things Worse before October 9th to get a free ticket for a live webinar based on their book scheduled for October 9th @7:30-9:30. You can also buy tickets for this webinar as usual.

    Click here for link to sign up for Live Webinar


    www.sendparenting.com

  • Episode 93

    Discover how assistive technology is revolutionizing education for neurodiverse children with our special guest, Brian Friedlander. From his dual expertise as a school psychologist and assistive technology consultant, Brian shares his incredible journey and the transformative tools he's encountered along the way. Learn about the progression from rudimentary assistive devices to the cutting-edge technologies now available, and hear real-life stories of how these innovations are changing the educational landscape for students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and other learning differences.

    Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of voice technology and its impact on education. We discuss the game-changing capabilities of tools like Google Docs, Google Classroom, and Microsoft’s immersive reader, which are helping neurodiverse students express their creativity despite fine motor challenges. Gain practical tips on how to effectively incorporate voice technology in the classroom, and understand the pivotal role teachers play in guiding students through the cognitive demands of voice-assisted writing. The future of learning is here, and it's more accessible than ever.

    Lastly, we navigate the complex landscape of educational support systems in the US and UK, with a particular focus on the revolutionary potential of AI. Brian highlights essential testing accommodations and shares invaluable insights on digital tools that assist high school and college students in organizing their materials. Discover how AI-powered resources like Magic School AI and Diffit AI can tailor learning experiences to meet individual needs, making education more inclusive and effective. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that underscores the importance of parental advocacy in securing the best possible educational outcomes for their children.

    Click here for a list of all the AI and Technology that Brian talked about in this episode.

    Brians Blof Assistivetek

    www.sendparenting.com

  • Episode 92

    Can hormonal changes during puberty and menopause amplify neurodivergent traits? Join us as we explore this compelling question with Dinah Siman, founder of Menopause Pilates. With over 26 years of experience in teaching pilates and other movement methods, Dinah shares her profound insights on how movement and proprioception can be game-changers for neurodivergent individuals.

    We dive into the intricate connections between neurodiversity, hypermobility, inflammatory bowel disease, migraines, and asthma, providing a holistic understanding of health beyond traditional medicine’s segmented approach. We discuss how pilates benefits core stability and back pain and highlight the evolving perspective of menopause specialists advocating for comprehensive health approaches.

    Sharing personal experiences, we shed light on the intersection of hormones and neurodiversity, discussing the rising diagnoses of ADHD during menopause and the need for innovative solutions like family package deals for neurodiversity testing. Our conversation challenges the stigmas surrounding menopause, encouraging women to seek help and consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT) based on modern research.

    Finding joyful movement from pilates to biking and even pigeon shooting, we talk about the importance of enjoyment in maintaining consistency in physical activities. Lastly, we emphasize the importance of maintaining bone health through load-bearing exercises and celebrate the vital role of movement and hormonal health for overall well-being. Tune in to gain valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the complexities of neurodiversity and hormonal health.

    Menopause Pilates

    www.sendparenting.com

  • 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.

    Click here for link to IPSEA

    www.sendparenting.com

  • 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

  • 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 AYOYA

    www.sendparenting.com

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • 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 Clinic

    www.sendparenting.com

  • 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 Clinic

    www.sendparenting.com

  • 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

  • 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 Aquatics

    www.sendparenting.com

  • 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 Clinic

    www.sendparenting.com