Honest conversations for parents raising autistic, ADHD and neurodivergent children — with space for Black and ethnic minority family experiences often left out of the conversation.
Autism, Eloping and the water-safety Fear Parents Carry
What happens when something that brings your child complete joy is also one of your greatest fears? In this episode of Inclusive Stories After Dark, Brooklyn speaks honestly about raising an autistic child who is deeply drawn to water but does not yet fully understand the danger. Brooklyn explores the constant alertness many SEND parents carry around swimming pools, rivers, canals, lakes and the sea. Brooklyn also reflects on two devastating incidents involving young children and water, including a tragedy close to her home in South East London less than two years ago and a more recent loss in Suffolk. The conversation includes: • Water as a source of sensory joy and regulation • Why danger awareness can change in different environments • The difference between repeating a rule and using it in the moment • Active supervision and clear handovers between adults • Wandering, bolting and leaving safe spaces • Teaching specific instructions such as “stop”, “wait” and “come to the side” • Visual supports and social stories • Making the home and garden safer • Accessible swimming lessons for neurodivergent children • Practical water competence and emergency planning • The physical and emotional toll of remaining constantly alert This episode is for parents and carers whose children are attracted to water, have limited danger awareness, wander, communicate differently or require close supervision. You are not overreacting. You are not being controlling. You are responding to the needs of the child in front of you. Trigger Warning: This episode discusses drowning, children going missing and parental fears surrounding water. Please listen when you feel able, particularly if these subjects are close to your own experience. WATER-SAFETY RESOURCES RNLI water-safety advice and Float to Live: https://rnli.org/safety Royal Life Saving Society UK: https://www.rlss.org.uk/ In an emergency or if someone is in immediate danger in the UK, call 999. Connect with Brooklyn TISNECH COMMUNITY SESSIONS TISNECH is the Inclusive Stories Neurodivergent Education Community Hub. We provide inclusive sensory play, respite and community support for neurodivergent children and young people aged 5–24 and their families in Greenwich. Our next sessions are on 10 and 24 October. Book your place: https://tisnech.co.uk/book Find Inclusive Stories books, sensory resources, community support and information about TISNECH through the links below. 🔗 LINKS AND RESOURCES 📦 Explore the Inclusive Stories Subscription Box: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/subscribe 📚 Shop our inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly fidget tools: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/shop 📧 Email: info@inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusivestories/ 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inclusivestoriesbox 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusivestoriesbox/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9jFnitIvfgqkyiQUnhVM0A 🎙️ Podcast Home: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/podcast
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18 episodes from the latest feed
24 September 2026 · 00:27:17
The Diagnosis That Changed My Past: Late-Diagnosed Autism, Masking and Motherhood
Brooklyn shares her personal journey of receiving a late autism diagnosis and the impact it has had on her life, motherhood, and self-understanding. She discusses the concept of masking, the challenges of late diagnosis, and the importance of self-compassion and understanding. She also addresses the experience of recognizing oneself through a child's autism diagnosis and the need for self-acceptance and support. Takeaways Late autism diagnosis can bring relief and grief, as it changes the meaning attached to one's life experiences. Understanding and unmasking oneself is a gradual process that requires self-compassion and acceptance. Chapters 00:00 The Impact of Late Diagnosis 03:08 The Experience of Masking 06:09 Recognizing Oneself Through a Child's Diagnosis 08:29 The Journey of Self-Understanding 10:23 Support and Compassion for Late Diagnosed Adults 15:22 Parenting and Self-Understanding 19:33 Exploring a Late Diagnosis 22:22 Unmasking and Self-Acceptance Find Inclusive Stories books, sensory resources, community support and information about TISNECH through the links in the episode notes. 🔗 LINKS AND RESOURCES 💛 TISNECH COMMUNITY SESSIONS TISNECH is the Inclusive Stories Neurodivergent Education Community Hub. It is a safe, inclusive and non-judgemental space where neurodivergent children and young people aged 5 to 24 can play, explore, regulate and connect. Families can enjoy sensory play areas, calming zones, creative activities and opportunities to build friendships. Our next sessions are: 📅 Saturday 10 October 2026 📅 Saturday 24 October 2026 🔗 Book your session: https://www.tisnech.co.uk/book 🌐 Learn more about TISNECH: https://www.tisnech.co.uk 📧 TISNECH email: hello@tisnech.co.uk 📱 Follow TISNECH on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok: @tisnech 📦 Explore the Inclusive Stories Subscription Box: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/subscribe 📚 Shop our inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly fidget tools: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/shop 📧 Email: info@inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusivestoriespodcast 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inclusivestoriesbox 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusivestoriesbox/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9jFnitIvfgqkyiQUnhVM0A 🎙️ Podcast Home: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/podcast .
19 September 2026 · 00:29:51
When Life Forces You to Pause: Autistic Burnout, Motherhood and Starting Again
What happens when you still care deeply about your work, your family and your purpose, but your mind and body no longer have the capacity to keep going? In the opening episode of Season 3, Brooklyn Banjoko returns to the Inclusive Stories Podcast after nearly a year away. She shares why the podcast went quiet, what it means to experience autistic burnout while raising two neurodivergent children, and how receiving an autism diagnosis at 44 changed the way she understands her life. Brooklyn speaks honestly about the invisible demands of SEND parenting, masking, sensory overload, chronic exhaustion and the pressure to appear capable while struggling underneath. This episode is for autistic adults, late-diagnosed women, SEND parents, carers and anyone who has stepped away from something they love because life became too much. If you have been calling yourself lazy, inconsistent or a failure, this conversation may help you ask a different question: What support was missing? Find Inclusive Stories books, sensory resources, community support and information about TISNECH through the links in the episode notes. Find Inclusive Stories books, sensory resources, community support and information about TISNECH through the links in the episode notes. 🔗 LINKS AND RESOURCES 💛 TISNECH COMMUNITY SESSIONS TISNECH is the Inclusive Stories Neurodivergent Education Community Hub. It is a safe, inclusive and non-judgemental space where neurodivergent children and young people aged 5 to 24 can play, explore, regulate and connect. Families can enjoy sensory play areas, calming zones, creative activities and opportunities to build friendships. Parents and carers remain during the session and can connect with others who understand. Siblings are welcome where appropriate. Our next sessions are: 📅 Saturday 10 October 2026 📅 Saturday 24 October 2026 🔗 Book your session: https://www.tisnech.co.uk/book 📧 TISNECH email: hello@tisnech.co.uk 📱 Follow TISNECH on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok: @tisnech 📦 Explore the Inclusive Stories Subscription Box: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/subscribe 📚 Shop our inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly fidget tools: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/shop 📧 Email: info@inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusivestoriespodcast 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inclusivestoriesbox 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusivestoriesbox/ ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9jFnitIvfgqkyiQUnhVM0A 🎙️ Podcast Home: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/podcast
30 March 2025 · 00:08:36
To the Mum Who Does It All: Celebrating The Strength of SEND Mums
In this deeply honest episode of Inclusive Stories After Dark , host Brooklyn opens Season 2 with a love letter to every SEND mum parenting Autistic and ADHD children. Speaking from her lived experience, Brooklyn reflects on the emotional weight many neurodivergent families carry. She speaks about the grief that often sits beside joy, the invisible labour of advocating for your child, and the emotional toll of doing it all while barely being seen. This episode offers comfort, recognition, and gentle encouragement. For every mum raising a neurodivergent child who feels exhausted, unacknowledged or unseen—this one's for you. Perfect for late-night listening when the house is finally quiet. This episode is for you if you: Are parenting an Autistic or ADHD child Are navigating the SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) system Carry the emotional and mental load of your family Crave connection, validation, and a quiet space to be reminded you're not alone Key Takeaways: Parenting Autistic and ADHD children brings both love and grief. Both are valid. SEND motherhood is often isolating and emotionally heavy. Your invisible work matters—even if others don’t see it. You deserve rest, recognition and real self-care. Celebrating yourself isn’t selfish. It’s necessary. Affirmations help reinforce your strength and self-worth. Your needs deserve to be heard—by your family and by yourself. The love you have for your child is powerful, even in hard seasons. You're not alone in this journey. There’s a whole community of mums like you Stay Connected with Inclusive Stories We love hearing from our community! Whether you have a question, want to share your story, or collaborate, here’s how you can reach us: Website: www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📧 Email: info@ inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk Instagram: @inclusivestories 📘 TikTok: @Inclusivestoriesbox Facebook: Inclusive Stories YouTube: Inclusive Stories Box 🎙️ Podcast Home: Inclusive Stories Podcast If you’re a parent, carer, educator or advocate looking for inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly resources, we’d love to welcome you into our growing family. Music by Sergei Chetvertnykh from Pixabay
6 April 2025 · 00:07:02
Choosing Joy this Autism Awareness Month
In this episode of Inclusive Stories After Dark, Brooklyn reflects on Autism Awareness Month, emphasising the importance of living authentically as a parent of autistic children. She discusses the complexities of awareness, joy, and the need for rest, encouraging listeners to define their own experiences and celebrate their journeys without the pressure of public performance. takeaways This month can bring a bit of everything: pride, pressure, and joy. Awareness is a daily experience, not just a month-long event. Joy can be a form of rebellion against societal expectations. Rest is a form of resistance and self-care. You are allowed to define what Autism Awareness Month looks like for you. Celebrating small victories is revolutionary joy. It's okay to opt out of the noise and focus on your family. You are seen, valued, and enough just as you are. Sometimes, awareness looks like simply being present. Choosing joy is a powerful act of self-advocacy. Stay Connected with Inclusive Stories We love hearing from our community! Whether you have a question, want to share your story, or collaborate, here’s how you can reach us: Website: www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📧 Email: info@ inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk Instagram: @inclusivestories 📘 TikTok: @Inclusivestoriesbox Facebook: Inclusive Stories YouTube: Inclusive Stories Box Podcast Home: Inclusive Stories Podcast If you’re a parent, carer, educator or advocate looking for inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly resources, we’d love to welcome you into our growing family. Music by Sergei Chetvertnykh from Pixabay
19 October 2023 · 00:41:59
Journey to a New Normal: Embracing Autism and Celebrating Differences
The Importance of Inclusivity and Neurodiversity Explored in the First Episode of "Inclusive Stories Podcast", host Brooklyn, shares her personal journey of raising a neurodivergent child in the show's debut episode. She talks about the challenges she faced in getting a diagnosis for her child and coming to terms with the "new normal" that came with it. As a black mother, she also discusses the stigma attached to raising a neurodivergent child.Brooklyn's story highlights the significance of accepting differences and appreciating neurodiversity. She emphasizes how crucial it is to support children with the resources they need to thrive. Through her experiences, Brooklyn raises awareness of the need for inclusive and compassionate systems for neurodivergent individuals and their families, especially in ethnic minority communities."Journey to a New Normal: Embracing Autism and Celebrating Differences" is an inspiring and informative episode that promotes understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for all individuals.
6 April 2025 · 00:07:17
Joy Anyway: Because This Joy is Ours—Even on the Hard days
In this episode of Inclusive Stories After Dark, Brooklyn explores finding joy amidst the chaos of parenting and everyday life. She discusses the weight of sensory overload and the cumulative stress of small challenges, emphasising that joy can still exist even in difficult times. Brooklyn encourages listeners to recognise and reclaim their joy, reminding them that it is not only permissible to feel joy but essential for emotional well-being. The episode concludes with a call to choose joy, even amid life's challenges. takeaways Joy can exist even in difficult times. The cumulative weight of small challenges can be overwhelming. Finding joy in unexpected moments is important. Joy does not negate the hard experiences of life. It's okay to feel joy while still facing challenges. Self-care and joy are essential for emotional well-being. You can reclaim your joy by engaging in small, joyful activities. Laughter and joy are still within reach. Mindfulness can help in recognising moments of joy. You are enough, and your joy is valid. Stay Connected with Inclusive Stories We love hearing from our community! Whether you have a question, want to share your story, or collaborate, here’s how you can reach us: Website: www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📧 Email: info@ inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk Instagram: @inclusivestories 📘 TikTok: @Inclusivestoriesbox Facebook: Inclusive Stories YouTube: Inclusive Stories Box Podcast Home: Inclusive Stories Podcast If you’re a parent, carer, educator or advocate looking for inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly resources, we’d love to welcome you into our growing family. Music by Sergei Chetvertnykh from Pixabay
23 July 2025 · 00:08:54
When the World Is on Holiday… But Neurodivergent Families Are Still in the Trenches
The school gates have closed, but for many of us raising autistic, ADHD, or otherwise neurodivergent children, the real work has just begun. In this heartfelt episode of Inclusive Stories After Dark, Brooklyn shares what summer really looks like for SEND parents: the invisible weight, the lack of support, the grief, but also the small joys, glimmers of rest, and moments of light we often forget to notice. With honest storytelling, gentle humour, and grounded advice, this is not a “how-to” episode. It is a “me too”, a soft space to feel less alone and more understood. What We Talk About in This Episode: Why summer is not a break for many neurodivergent families The invisible load of managing sensory needs, routines, and meltdowns The importance of shrinking the day, creating small anchors, and redefining what a “good” day looks like Real tips for finding calm, joy, and breathing space during the holidays Your questions, answered in our “Ask Brooklyn” segment, from holiday guilt to parenting burnout And a whole lot of softness, truth, and solidarity for the season ahead Stay Connected with Inclusive Stories We love hearing from our community! Whether you have a question, want to share your story, or collaborate, here’s how you can reach us: Website: www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📧 Email: info@inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk Instagram: @inclusivestories 📘 TikTok: @Inclusivestoriesbox Facebook: Inclusive Stories YouTube: Inclusive Stories Box Podcast Home: Inclusive Stories PodcastIf you’re a parent, carer, educator or advocate looking for inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly resources, we’d love to welcome you into our growing family. Music by Sergei Chetvertnykh from Pixabay#SENDMum #NeurodivergentParent #AutismAwareness #InclusiveStoriesAfterDark
1 August 2025 · 00:14:18
Making Summer Work for Our Neurodivergent Kids, and Ourselves Too with Lily Adams
Summer holidays are here, but for many neurodivergent families, this season is anything but restful. The world may be on holiday, but we are still deep in the trenches. In this powerful, honest episode, Brooklyn sits down with fellow SEND mum and Occupational Therapist Lily Adams for a conversation that goes far beyond tips and tricks. Together, they talk about the emotional weight of summer when routines vanish and support disappears, and how to find moments of connection, calm, and even joy in the middle of it all. Whether you are managing PDA meltdowns in the park, packing snacks and ear defenders for every outing, or just trying to survive six weeks with no village in sight, this episode will meet you where you are. ✨ If this episode felt like a warm hug… 👉 Join our Inclusive Stories Community Hub, it is free, and filled with families like yours. https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/groups 👉 Explore our Inclusive Stories Subscription Box, books, fidgets, and sensory tools, made with your child in mind. https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/groups 👉 Shop the NeuroInclusive Apparel Collection — because different is beautiful. neuroinclusiveapparel.co.uk 🧡 You are not doing summer wrong. You are doing it differently, and that matters. Stay Connected with Inclusive Stories We love hearing from our community! Whether you have a question, want to share your story, or collaborate, here’s how you can reach us: Website: www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📧 Email: info@inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk Instagram: @inclusivestories 📘 TikTok: @Inclusivestoriesbox Facebook: Inclusive Stories YouTube: Inclusive Stories Box Podcast Home: Inclusive Stories PodcastIf you’re a parent, carer, educator or advocate looking for inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly resources, we’d love to welcome you into our growing family. Music by Sergei Chetvertnykh from Pixabay#SENDMum #NeurodivergentParent #AutismAwareness #InclusiveStoriesAfterDark
12 December 2023 · 00:53:03
Breaking Down The Stigma Around Autism in Ethnic Minority Communities
I am excited to share an amazing conversation I had with Tola Andu, a health care professional, parent advocate and founder of the TOLA ANDU Foundation. In this episode, we dive into Tola's journey as a parent of a child on the autism spectrum and discuss the challenges she faced along the way. We talk about the importance of creating a supportive community for parents of children on the autism spectrum, overcoming stigma, and prioritising self-care as a parent. We also chat about advocating for your child in the education system, choosing the right school, and collaborating with schools to ensure the success of neurodivergent children. Plus, we get to learn more about the TOLA ANDU Foundation and its mission to create awareness and support for neurodivergent children in Nigeria. So grab a cuppa and join us for an insightful conversation on navigating parenthood as a parent of a child on the autism spectrum and breaking down the stigma around autism in ethnic minority communities. Takeaways: - Creating a supportive community for parents of children on the autism spectrum is key. - Overcoming stigma is possible by prioritising your child's needs and not caring about others' opinions. - Advocacy is crucial in the education system and obtaining necessary support for children with autism. - Choosing the right school for a neurodivergent child is important to prioritise their needs. - Collaboration between schools and parents is essential for the success of neurodivergent children. - The education system needs improvements in terms of resources and support for neurodivergent children. - The TOLA ANDU Foundation is doing amazing work to create awareness and support for neurodivergent children in Nigeria. Learn more here www.tafautismcare.org
20 May 2025 · 00:56:21
Parenting Multiple Autistic Children with Sua Kyei
What does it mean to raise more than one autistic child, while also navigating cultural expectations, diagnosis journeys, and a system that does not always see us? In this powerful episode of Inclusive Stories , Brooklyn sits down with Sua, a British legal practitioner and proud mum of three daughters, two of whom are autistic. Together, they explore the layered, emotional, and transformative experience of parenting multiple neurodivergent children. This episode speaks to parents who are still finding their feet after diagnosis, those parenting in cultural spaces where autism is misunderstood, and families seeking real talk about advocacy, representation, and doing life differently. 🎙️ In This Episode, We Talk About: The emotional impact of parenting autistic children in a misunderstood world How Sua’s parenting evolved from her neurotypical first child to her two autistic daughters The role of culture, stigma, and silence in Black British families navigating autism Why representation matters in diagnosis, school, and support services The story behind the Eden Rose Project and how her daughter became an advocate What Sua wishes she knew earlier—and why we should stop waiting for “readiness” to start living 💬 Quote from the Episode: "Whether you are a believer, a non-believer, or lean more toward science… there is still hope." – Sua 🔗 Mentioned in this episode: Join the Inclusive Stories Community Hub: www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/groups The Eden Rose Project: edenroseproject.com 🎧 Listen now and share with another parent who needs to hear this. Your child’s journey does not have to follow anyone else's map. We are learning together and building community along the way. Stay Connected with Inclusive Stories We love hearing from our community! Whether you have a question, want to share your story, or collaborate, here’s how you can reach us: Website: www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📧 Email: info@ inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk Instagram: @inclusivestories 📘 TikTok: @Inclusivestoriesbox Facebook: Inclusive Stories YouTube: Inclusive Stories Box Podcast Home: Inclusive Stories Podcast If you’re a parent, carer, educator or advocate looking for inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly resources, we’d love to welcome you into our growing family. Music by Sergei Chetvertnykh from Pixabay
6 May 2025 · 00:15:16
For the Parent/Carer of Neurodivergent Children Holding It All
This episode is a breath for every SEND/Neurodivergent parent and carer who wonders why they are so tired, even when nothing “big” happened. The truth? You are not lazy. You are not doing it wrong. You are carrying more than most people will ever understand. In this episode, I hold space for the unspoken exhaustion, invisible labour, and quiet strength of parents raising Autistic and ADHD children. You are not alone. You are not too much. And you are still standing. This episode is for you. In this episode we talk about: Why you feel so overwhelmed (even when you think you “should be coping”) What nobody sees about the emotional load of SEND parenting How laughter, joy, and small silences still show up in the chaos The myth of “getting it right” Listener questions in Ask Brooklyn Gentle affirmations to help you rest You don’t need fixing. You just need space. Let this be it. Stay Connected with Inclusive Stories We love hearing from our community! Whether you have a question, want to share your story, or collaborate, here’s how you can reach us: Website: www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📧 Email: info@ inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk Instagram: @inclusivestories 📘 TikTok: @Inclusivestoriesbox Facebook: Inclusive Stories YouTube: Inclusive Stories Box Podcast Home: Inclusive Stories Podcast If you’re a parent, carer, educator or advocate looking for inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly resources, we’d love to welcome you into our growing family. Music by Sergei Chetvertnykh from Pixabay #SENDMum #NeurodivergentParent #AutismAwareness #InclusiveStoriesAfterDark
15 April 2025 · 00:16:19
A Half-Term Hug for SEND Families
In this episode of Inclusive Stories After Dark, Brooklyn shares heartfelt insights and encouragement for parents and caregivers navigating the challenges of raising children with autism and ADHD. She emphasises the importance of recognising small wins, finding joy amidst chaos, and the need for self-compassion. Brooklyn addresses the pressures of parenting during holidays, the significance of being seen, and the value of adaptability in parenting. The conversation is filled with warmth, humour, and affirmations that resonate deeply with the audience. takeaways You're not alone in this journey of parenting. Every small win counts, even if it seems insignificant. It's okay to feel tired and still be a great parent. Your child's joy matters, and so does yours. You don't have to be perfect to be a good parent. Laughter can be a coping mechanism during tough times. Adapting to your child's needs is not a failure. It's important to feel seen and acknowledged in your efforts. Your love and presence are what your child will remember. You are enough, just as you are. Stay Connected with Inclusive Stories We love hearing from our community! Whether you have a question, want to share your story, or collaborate, here’s how you can reach us: Website: www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📧 Email: info@ inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk Instagram: @inclusivestories 📘 TikTok: @Inclusivestoriesbox Facebook: Inclusive Stories YouTube: Inclusive Stories Box Podcast Home: Inclusive Stories Podcast If you’re a parent, carer, educator or advocate looking for inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly resources, we’d love to welcome you into our growing family. Music by Sergei Chetvertnykh from Pixabay
3 June 2025 · 00:08:00
When I Am No Longer Here: The Fear Every Autism/ Nuerodivergent Parent Carries
In this deeply emotional episode of Inclusive Stories After Dark, Brooklyn speaks directly to the fear that so many SEN parents carry but rarely say out loud, What happens when I am no longer here to advocate for my neurodivergent child? From sleepless nights to the quiet ache of wondering who will understand your child’s sensory needs, speech delays, or PDA profile, this episode holds space for those invisible worries. Brooklyn explores the internal battles that come with raising autistic children in a world that still does not fully understand them, and gently reminds us that every act of advocacy, love, and structure leaves a lasting imprint. Whether your child has ARFID, struggles with masking, uses echolalia to communicate, or needs 1:1 support that the system keeps failing to provide, this episode is for you. You are not just parenting for today. You are building a foundation your child will carry long after you are gone. And your voice will echo, even when you are no longer here to speak it. 🧡 Who This Is For: Parents of Autistic and ADHD children Parents navigating EHCPs and SEND support Families supporting children with ARFID, PDA profiles, sensory needs, or speech and language delays Anyone raising neurodivergent children and wondering if what they are doing will ever be enough 🔗 Links + Resources: 🌍 Join our free community hub: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/groups 📦 Explore the Inclusive Stories Subscription Box: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/subscribe 📚 Shop our inclusive books and fidget-friendly tools: https://www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk/shop 📧 Email: info@ inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk Instagram: @inclusivestories 📘 TikTok: @Inclusivestoriesbox Facebook: Inclusive Stories YouTube: Inclusive Stories Box Podcast Home: Inclusive Stories Podcast If you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or advocate seeking inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly resources, we’d be delighted to welcome you into our growing community. Music by Sergei Chetvertnykh from Pixabay
7 November 2023 · 00:49:02
Mindful Parenting: Cultivating a Deeper Connection with Your Neurodivergent Child
Welcome to Inclusive Stories, where we strive to create a more inclusive world, one story at a time. In today's episode, we focus on Mindful Parenting with our guest, Kristin Schmoke. Kristin is an experienced educator, a Neurodivergent parent, and a mindful parenting coach who helps parents cultivate a deeper connection with their Neurodivergent child. Throughout the episode, Kristin shares her experience of parenting a child on the autism spectrum and provides practical tips and strategies for parents who may be facing challenges in connecting with their Neurodivergent child. She emphasizes the importance of patience, empathy, and self-compassion and encourages parents to focus on their child's strengths rather than their challenges. Kristin's insights are invaluable for any parent who wants to build a stronger, more meaningful relationship with their child. Mindful parenting is a powerful practice that can transform the way we interact with our children. By being present and non-judgmental, we can create a deeper connection and understanding of our child's unique needs and abilities. This episode of Inclusive Stories is a must-listen for any parent who wants to improve their relationship with their child. We hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as we enjoyed creating it. Thank you for joining us on our journey of creating a more inclusive world, one story at a time.
22 April 2024 · 00:50:31
Navigating the EHCP Process: A Parent's Guide
In this episode, Tessa Philbert, a SEN Law expert, discusses the importance of SEN Law and her journey in the field. She highlights the importance of understanding the eligibility criteria for obtaining a EHCP. Tessa emphasises the role of parents in gathering evidence and overcoming challenges in the tribunal process. In this part of the conversation, we discuss the EHCP assessment process, common challenges faced by parents, evidence gathering, ensuring an accurate EHCP, effective collaboration with professionals, timelines and deadlines, sharing the final EHCP plan, and resources and support networks for parents. In this conversation, Tessa discusses the accessibility of support organisations and the need for personalised support for parents of children with special educational needs. She shares success stories and best practices from parents who have navigated the Annual Review process. This episode also highlights the challenges in school-local authority relationships and the importance of advocacy and support. Tessa provides guidance on appealing a refusal to assess and emphasises the importance of evaluating progress and evidence. Takeaways Understanding the EHCP assessment process is crucial for parents to navigate the system effectively. Parents may face challenges such as local authorities not following the correct legal tests or delaying assessments. Parents should gather relevant evidence and ensure that professionals conduct thorough assessments. Collaboration with professionals is essential to ensure the best outcome for the child. Parents should be aware of the timelines and deadlines in the EHCP process and take action if they are not met. The final EHCP plan may not be shared with all professionals involved, and parents should communicate with the school to ensure proper implementation. You can find Tessa on Instagram @infinitysend44 and email infinitysend44@infinitysend.co.uk
25 July 2023 · 00:02:37
Creating a more inclusive world - one story at a time.
Welcome to Inclusive Stories, a podcast dedicated to supporting and empowering neurodivergent families, We'll be discussing the challenges that neurodivergent parents face when navigating the education and healthcare systems for their children. As a parent of a neurodivergent child, it can be difficult to know where to turn for support and guidance.One of the biggest hurdles that neurodivergent families face is navigating the education system. Navigating the education and healthcare systems can be a daunting task for neurodivergent families. However, by being proactive, seeking out resources and support, and advocating for your child's needs, parents can help ensure that their child receives the best possible care and education.
28 April 2025 · 00:15:35
Celebrating Our Wins: Because We Are Worth It Too
Tonight, we are taking a moment to celebrate you , friend. Inspired by my National Diversity Awards 2025 nomination, this episode is all about honouring the wins we often overlook as SEND parents and carers. You are doing extraordinary things — even when no one claps, even when no one sees. Your story matters. Your growth matters. You deserve to celebrate yourself without apology. Let us breathe, reflect, and take pride in the quiet victories we build every day. Be well, always. Stay Connected with Inclusive Stories We love hearing from our community! Whether you have a question, want to share your story, or collaborate, here’s how you can reach us: Website: www.inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk 📧 Email: info@ inclusivestoriesbox.co.uk Instagram: @inclusivestories 📘 TikTok: @Inclusivestoriesbox Facebook: Inclusive Stories YouTube: Inclusive Stories Box Podcast Home: Inclusive Stories Podcast If you’re a parent, carer, educator or advocate looking for inclusive children’s books and sensory-friendly resources, we’d love to welcome you into our growing family. Music by Sergei Chetvertnykh from Pixabay #SENDMum #NeurodivergentParent #AutismAwareness #InclusiveStoriesAfterDark
Inclusive Stories After Dark
Shorter evening episodes for quiet moments, tired hearts and SEND parents who deserve space to breathe and feel held too.
