Raising Confident Kids with SEN

Episode 7: I think my child has SEN - what now?

Sarah discusses what to do if your child's school or nursery has raised developmental concerns. She empathises with the emotional impact of such feedback and offers reassurance, drawing from her own experiences and those of her clients.

She shares insights on navigating the challenges of seeking support, emphasising the importance of having the right strategy, finding the right time to implement it, and seeking support from professionals or experienced individuals. Additionally, she debunks the "watch and wait" myth and encourages persistence in seeking support.

Sarah also highlights the power of parental intuition and the impact of proactive, little and often actions in supporting a child's development. This episode offers invaluable guidance and insights for parents navigating the complexities of raising a child with special educational needs.

Episode 6: Figuring out family life and ADHD with Emma Cossey

Sarah Billingham chats with Emma Cossey, a Freelance Coach, about her personal journey of recognising ADHD traits in her son and her adult ADHD diagnosis. Emma shares the impact it had on their family life, as well as practical changes she made to create a more ADHD-friendly home environment. 

Their discussion also touches on the challenges and benefits of freelancing for neurodivergent individuals, and Emma shares details about her inclusive freelance community and podcast, offering valuable resources for those navigating similar experiences. 

Tune in for an enlightening and empowering conversation on raising children with ADHD and creating a supportive community for neurodivergent individuals.

Episode 5: Post pick-up slump: Supporting your child after school

Sarah tackles the outpouring of emotions that many children with special educational needs experience after a long school day. Think of it as the big release after keeping emotions bottled up—this is the time they need us most.

Sarah chats about the power of discussing feelings and shares a tool, My Mood Stars, that helped her daughter communicate her anxiety. 

Expect tips on how to balance decompression time and connection for our kids after school. Learn the signs of a "hangry" child and the importance of refueling right after school, managing schedules, and choosing the right after-school environment.

Prepare for insights and advice on how to help your children unwind and express themselves, laying the groundwork for a calmer evening. She delves into the strategies and understanding necessary to support kids through the post-school transition. Listen in as Sarah shares how to avoid the post pick-up slump.

Episode 4: Embracing co-regulation for SEN kids with Amanda Clifford

Today Sarah and her guest Amanda Clifford are exploring the foundational concept of co-regulation and its vital importance in raising confident and resilient kids.

Amanda Clifford is an experienced neonatal and paediatric occupational therapist. Tune in as they unpack the deeper aspects of how co-regulation supports your child's emotional development. They also discuss sensory regulation and share how parents play a crucial role in helping their children find their "just right" place in challenging situations. Amanda is a mother to four, including twins, she also shares her insights on managing the stress of parenting and keeping the household running smoothly. 

Listen to the episode to learn some practical strategies that you can use every day to help empower you and your kids.

Episode 3: How to choose the right school for your child with SEN

Your host Sarah Billingham explores the important topic of choosing a school for a child with special educational needs. She dives into the decision-making process, considerations when visiting schools, and the significance of prioritsing a child's individual needs. Sarah shares valuable insights and practical tools to assist parents in making this crucial decision. The episode also addresses the question of mainstream versus special schools and when it may be appropriate to consider a special school placement. Tune in as Sarah provides valuable advice and guidance for parents navigating the school selection process for their children with special educational needs.

Episode 2: Navigating the Special Education Journey with Richard Woods

Today we're welcoming Richard Woods to the show. Richard's journey through dyslexia to entrepreneurial success provides an insightful backdrop  about the potential within neurodiversity. Your host Sarah discusses with Richard how he and his wife navigated special educational needs with their daughter Poppy. From recognising developmental delays to embracing the positive change a special school has made in her life.

They also discuss the challenges and eventual successes of applying for an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP), the importance of community support, and how to find the right school fit for children with SEN.

This episode is a must-listen for any parent on a similar pathway, offering not just a father's perspective but inspiration and practical advice. Stay tuned as Sarah and Richard delve into these topics and equip you with resources to support your child's educational journey.

Listen and subscribe to the podcast now

The Raising Confident Kids with SEN podcast is designed to offer strength, guidance, and understanding to parents navigating the rollercoaster of raising children with special educational needs. My aim is to make this podcast a hub of education, inspiration and support for families, using humour, expert knowledge, interviews and parents’ stories.

Don’t miss new episodes

Subscribe to our newsletter to get notified when new episodes are released.

Sponsorship opportunity: You can sponsor this podcast! Sponsor a series, theme, or a specific episode. Get in touch now to find out more.