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Support Single Parents of Children with SEND
Single parents raising children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are being left to carry an impossible burden. Many parents are expected to work full-time while also managing school drop-offs and collections, frequent appointments, meetings, phone calls and emails, often because their child’s needs make traditional school hours, transport arrangements or wraparound childcare impossible.…
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THE FIRST DAY BACK AFTER MONTHS AWAY
For some children, the first day back at school isn’t simply “the first day of term.” It can feel like stepping back into something that has been frightening, overwhelming or exhausting. And after months of non-attendance, even getting through the school gates can be a huge achievement. ❤️ So if today is that day for…
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When “Just Find a School Place” Isn’t That Simple
The hidden cost of waiting for an education placement — and the reality of being expected to simply “make it work”. Since November 2025, I have been waiting for my local authority to find a suitable school place for my son. Nine months. Nine months of waiting, asking questions, requesting updates, chasing information and trying…
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Dealing With Opinions of Others – for Parents
There is something deeply exhausting about trying your best as a parent while also managing the opinions of everyone around you. Sometimes the comments come disguised as “helpful advice.”Sometimes they sound like judgement.And sometimes they come from the people you expected support from the most. “You’re too soft.”“They just need discipline.”“They’ll grow out of it.”“You…
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Understanding Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)
Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) is an intense emotional response to perceived or real rejection, criticism, or failure. For children (and adults) who experience it, even small moments—like a misunderstood comment, a change in tone, or not being chosen—can feel overwhelming and deeply painful. It’s not “overreacting.” It’s a nervous system responding as if something much…
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Understanding Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)
A gentle guide for parents, carers, and children Rejection hurts—we all know that. But for some children, even the smallest hint of criticism, exclusion, or disappointment can feel overwhelming, intense, and deeply personal. This is often described as Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). RSD isn’t about being “too sensitive” or “overreacting.” It’s a very real emotional…
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Unmasking After School: A Gentle Art Activity to Help Your Child Unwind
For many children, school isn’t just about learning — it’s also about masking. Masking is when a child hides their true feelings, behaviors, or needs to fit in, avoid attention, or meet expectations. By the time they come home, they may feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or emotionally stretched thin — even if the day looked “fine”…
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When a Child Says “I Don’t Want to Go”
When a child says they don’t want to see a parent, it can put adults in an incredibly difficult position. Sometimes it’s brushed aside as defiance. Sometimes it’s labelled as manipulation. Sometimes it’s seen as “just a phase.” But very often, it’s communication. Children don’t usually have the emotional language to explain why something feels…
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Why Inclusion Matters (and What It Gently Teaches Our Children)
Inclusion isn’t about everyone being the same.It’s about everyone belonging. For children, feeling included sends a powerful, quiet message:You are welcome here exactly as you are. In everyday life, inclusion might look small — a child being invited into a game, having their voice heard, or feeling accepted even when they think, learn, move, or…
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A Small Art Pause for Busy Days
A grounding activity to help your child feel steady when life feels loud Busy times have a way of creeping up on children. Mornings feel rushed. Afternoons blur into after-school clubs, homework, and tired emotions. Even exciting seasons — holidays, celebrations, changes — can quietly overwhelm a child’s nervous system. When everything feels fast and…
