The Autism Mums Podcast

We're returning to the archives for this episode of The Autism Mums Podcast. We're talking about some of the real challenges families face with the current education system, especially when it comes to supporting autistic children.
Key Takeaways
Outdated Education System: The current education system is often rigid and not designed to accommodate the diverse needs of neurodivergent children.
Importance of Flexibility: There's a need for more flexible learning environments that allow for play and creativity, especially for younger children.
Struggles with Inclusion: Being in school is different from being included in school; many children face challenges that are not adequately addressed.
Identifying Needs Early: Early identification of challenges, such as speech or coordination issues, is crucial, but support often falls short.
Training for Educators: There is a significant need for enhanced training for teachers on special educational needs to better support neurodivergent students.
Impact of Environment: The classroom environment, including displays and changes, can greatly affect a child’s ability to learn and cope.
Communication Gaps: There are often communication breakdowns between schools, parents, and local authorities, leading to misunderstandings and lack of support.
Mental Health Considerations: The mental health of both children and parents is deeply affected by the educational experience and the pressure to conform.
Advocacy and Trusting Instincts: Parents should trust their instincts regarding their child's needs and advocate strongly for appropriate support.
Systemic Challenges: Financial motivations can influence decisions made about educational support, complicating the advocacy process for parents.
Mentioned in This Episode
The quote Victoria mentioned seeing on social media is: When a child at school is anxious about going home, concerns would be raised. But when a child is anxious about going to school, we as parents are expected to encourage them to go no matter what. Think about that for a second. - seen on CureJoy Kids on Facebook.
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In this week's episode of The Autism Mums Podcast we're returning to our earlier episode where we talk about ways to look after yourself when your child is having a tough day.
Key Takeaways
How supporting our children with their emotions can leave us feeling completely drained.
Common mistakes we’ve made when trying to "push through" a tough day.
Simple ways we try to carve out moments of calm: meditation, breathing space, and gentle resets.
How creating a comforting environment - with blankets, candles, soft music - can make a difference.
Allowing yourself to cancel non-essential tasks or meetings when you need breathing space.
The power of talking it out with someone who truly understands.
Finding and building a supportive community around you.
The importance of zoning out, resting, and knowing that tomorrow is a new day.
Mentioned in This Episode
Gabby Bernstein’s Meditation App
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We're re-releasing another episode from the archives this week where we talk about the practical ways we can help our autistic children with daily life.
We’re sharing some of the things that have helped us make daily life a bit easier with our autistic children. From using timers and visual timetables to experimenting with tooth brushes and finding softer clothing.
These are ideas that have worked for us, they might help you too, or simply offer reassurance that you’re not alone on this journey.
Key Takeaways
Timers and visual supports can help ease transitions by giving your child a sense of control and predictability.
Choosing soft, seamless clothing may make a difference for children who find layers uncomfortable.
Toothbrushing challenges might be eased by trying different tools like U-shaped or triple-angled toothbrushes.
Flexibility is key - what works one day might not work the next, and that’s okay.
Planning days out in advance with visual itineraries can reduce anxiety about what's coming next.
Noise sensitivity might be supported by using ear defenders, earbuds, or listening to favourite music.
Strong smells can sometimes be managed with things like balaclavas or carrying scents like orange oil to mask overwhelming smells.
Having a sensory kit (with familiar snacks, toys, and calming tools) may offer comfort when you're out and about.
Mentioned in This Episode
Here are some of the tools and resources discussed in this episode:
Visual timers
Laminated visual timetables
Seamless/sensory-friendly clothing
U-shaped toothbrush and triple-angled toothbrush
Ear defenders
Bach's Rescue Remedy
Orange Essential Oil
Tiger balm
The Early Birds course by the National Autistic Society
Stretchy resistance bands for calming sensory feedback

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Another episode from the archives this week. We're returning to our episode where we dive into the unique challenges of raising a child with a PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) profile. We're sharing our personal stories, strategies, and reflections to help parents and caregivers better understand and support their children navigating PDA-related behaviours.
Key Takeaways
PDA is driven by anxiety and a need for control; traditional demands can trigger refusal.
Offering controlled choices helps reduce pressure and gives children a sense of agency.
Visual schedules and plenty of preparation help ease transitions and reduce stress.
Managing your own calm and letting go of nonessential demands are important for low-demand parenting.
It’s okay to adjust family routines to what works for your child, even if it looks different from your original parenting ideals.
Misunderstandings from others can be painful but focusing on your child’s needs is what matters most.

Mentioned in This Episode
PDA Society
Dr. Naomi Fisher webinars and resources
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We're returning to the archives again this week to our episode all about EHCP's. We’re talking about the journey to getting an EHCP - what it is, why it matters, and what the process looked like for our families.
We’ll share the lessons we learned along the way with the hope that it helps you navigate the process and feel a little more prepared.
Key Takeaways
An EHCP can provide vital, legally binding support
You don't need a formal diagnosis to apply for an EHCP
Schools may not always initiate an EHCP request. If they don't parents can.
Timelines and deadlines are crucial - keep a track of key dates.
Support groups, SENDIASS and organisations like IPSEA can provide guidance and practical help.
The right provision can make a huge difference to your child's wellbeing.
Mentioned in This Episode
SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information Advice and Support Services)
IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) — ipsea.org.uk
EarlyBird course (National Autistic Society support programme for parents)
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