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As parents, our primary responsibility is to keep our children safe. It’s a task that requires constant vigilance, patience, and love. However, when your child has complex needs, safety can take on an entirely new dimension, bringing challenges that many others might not fully grasp. From sensory sensitivities to mobility issues, or even cognitive differences, these additional layers make the already difficult job of parenting even more intricate. And as much as we strive to be perfect, sometimes, accidents happen. This week, I had a tough reminder of just how delicate the balance of caregiving and safety can be. In a moment of trying to do too much at once, my son, Elias, who has additional sensory and mobility needs, accidentally got his hand into a cup of freshly boiled tea. It was one of those moments that felt like it happened in slow motion, but also far too quickly to prevent. In that instant, I felt a rush of guilt and fear. I’m sure many of you can relate to that sinking feeling when your best intentions lead to an unintended outcome. Thankfully, after a speedy trip to the Urgent Walk-In Centre—where the nurses were not only swift but also incredibly understanding of Elias’ needs—he was back to his normal, spirited self. His resilience amazed me, but it was a stark reminder of how crucial it is to maintain focus, even when juggling the numerous tasks that come with parenting. Children with complex needs often require an environment that is carefully managed to ensure their safety. For some, like Elias, sensory processing issues mean they might not react to heat or cold in a typical way. This could lead to them not withdrawing from something that’s too hot as quickly as another child might, increasing the risk of burns or other injuries. Others might have mobility challenges, making them more vulnerable to falls or difficulties in navigating everyday spaces. Children with cognitive or communication difficulties might not fully understand warnings or might not be able to express discomfort in the same way as their peers. As parents, we do our best to anticipate these risks, but we are human, and moments of oversight can happen. The key is to learn from these experiences and adjust our strategies accordingly. Here are a few takeaways I’ve reflected on since the incident: 1. Prioritise Tasks : It’s easy to get caught up in trying to do everything at once, especially when there’s so much on your plate. However, prioritising tasks and focusing on the most critical ones can help prevent accidents. If you’re preparing something potentially dangerous, like a hot drink, make sure your child is in a safe place first. 2. Create Safe Zones : Consider setting up areas in your home that are as risk-free as possible for your child. For instance, in the kitchen, use safety gates or establish a “no-go” zone when cooking or handling hot liquids. For Elias, this might mean having a designated spot where he can safely engage with a toy or sensory activity while I handle hot items. 3. Accept Help When Offered : If someone offers to help—whether it’s a family member, friend, or support worker—take it. Having another set of hands can be invaluable, especially during high-risk moments like cooking or when you’re multitasking. 4. Forgive Yourself : This might be the hardest lesson to learn. When accidents happen, it’s easy to fall into a cycle of guilt. But it’s important to remember that no parent is perfect. What matters most is how we respond to these moments and the steps we take to minimise future risks. 5. Engage with Your Support Network : Sharing experiences, tips, and strategies with other parents of children with complex needs can provide invaluable insights. Sometimes, the best advice comes from those who understand your unique challenges. Elias’ experience this week was a wake-up call for me. I’ve learned that while I cannot prevent every possible accident, I can continually strive to create a safer environment for him. And when things do go wrong, as they sometimes will, it’s essential to handle them with the grace and resilience that our children so often show us. Remember, you are not alone on this journey. We are all learning and growing alongside our children. Each day brings new challenges, but also new opportunities to be better, more attentive, and more compassionate toward ourselves and our little ones. Here’s to learning from the past and moving forward with even more determination to keep our complex needs children safe and thriving.

Caring for a child with complex or additional needs is a demanding job in itself. Balancing this with the pressures of work can feel overwhelming. I'd like to provide some guidance on how to communicate openly with your employer about your situation, how to protect yourself from discrimination, and where to seek support. I made the decision very early on in our journey to be very transparent with my employer about what we were going through as a family. I know it's not appropriate for everyone, and I am lucky to feel comfortable enough to share something so personal. It has helped me when attending appointments and when I simply need a moment. The Importance of Openness While it might feel daunting, being honest with your employer about your child's needs can be beneficial. It can lead to understanding, flexibility, and even additional support. Here are some tips: Be clear and concise: Explain your child's condition and the specific challenges it poses for you as a parent. Focus on impact: Rather than dwelling on the details of your child's condition, explain how it affects your work. Request specific adjustments: Clearly outline the support you need, such as flexible working hours or the ability to work from home occasionally. Building Trust and Safety Sharing personal information about your child can feel vulnerable. To foster a safe environment: Choose your timing wisely: Consider sharing your situation during a performance review or when discussing work-life balance. Build rapport: Cultivate a positive working relationship with your employer and colleagues. Know your rights: Understanding your legal protections against discrimination can boost your confidence. Resources and Support If you feel you're facing discrimination due to your caregiving responsibilities, know that you're not alone. Here are some resources: ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service): Provides free and impartial advice on employment rights. Equality and Human Rights Commission: Protects individuals from discrimination and promotes equality. Your local Citizens Advice Bureau: Offers guidance on a range of legal and practical issues. Remember, you're not expected to handle this alone. Seeking support from other parents, support groups, or therapy can be invaluable. Open communication with your employer, coupled with knowledge of your rights, can significantly improve your work-life balance and overall well-being.

Being a parent is challenging enough, but when you're navigating the complexities of raising a child with additional needs, it can feel like an entirely different ball game. One of the most unexpected challenges I've encountered is the constant barrage of invasive questions from strangers. Elias, my eldest, was born with vocal cord palsy following heart surgery. The resulting loud, raspy breathing often caused alarm and prompted a flood of questions in public places. Initially, I was overwhelmed and defensive, feeling exposed and vulnerable. A particularly harrowing experience in Specsavers left me sobbing on the high street, my confidence shattered. I developed a sharp, defensive response, bluntly informing questioners about Elias's condition and leaving them to feel awkward. While this provided temporary relief, it was an exhausting approach. My younger son, while typically developing, wears a helmet due to positional plagiocephaly (flat skull syndrome). This, too, invites a fresh wave of curiosity. It's as if our children's differences are open invitations for public dissection. So, how do we, as complex parents, deal with these intrusive inquiries? Should we even bother? The truth is, there's no easy answer. Some days, the energy it takes to respond feels overwhelming. Other days, a brief explanation might foster understanding and acceptance. Ultimately, the decision of how to respond is personal. Here are a few things that have helped me: Setting boundaries : It's okay to say, "I'm not comfortable discussing my child's health." Educating myself : Understanding my children's conditions has given me the confidence to respond when I choose to. Building a support network : Sharing experiences with other complex parents has been invaluable. Practicing self-care : Taking time for myself helps me cope with the stress of these interactions. Remember, we are not obligated to share our children's medical histories with strangers. Our priority is to protect our children and our own mental well-being. It's okay to feel angry, frustrated, or overwhelmed. We're not alone. What are your experiences with this? How do you cope with intrusive questions? Let's share our stories and support each other.

Travelling with children is an adventure in itself, but for parents of children with additional needs, it can seem like an insurmountable challenge. However, with careful planning and preparation, it's entirely possible to enjoy a memorable family vacation. Here are some tips to help you navigate the journey. Planning Your Trip Research Your Destination: Look for destinations that are accessible and cater to the needs of your child. Consider factors like transportation, accommodations, and attractions. Choose the Right Time to Travel: Off-peak seasons often mean fewer crowds and less stress. Book Early: This ensures you have the best options for flights, accommodations, and rental cars. Inform Your Airline: Many airlines offer assistance for passengers with disabilities. Contact them in advance to discuss your child's needs and any necessary arrangements. Pack Smart: Make a detailed packing list, including all necessary medications, equipment, and sensory items. Preparing Your Child Visual Supports: Use visual schedules or social stories to help your child understand what to expect during the trip. Sensory Preparation: Introduce new environments and sounds gradually to minimise sensory overload. Practice Travel Skills: Simulate airport security, airplane rides, or hotel stays at home to build familiarity. On the Journey Be Patient and Flexible: Unexpected challenges may arise, so be prepared to adjust your plans. Take Breaks: Frequent breaks can help manage stress and prevent meltdowns. Communicate Needs: Don't hesitate to ask for assistance from airline staff, hotel staff, or other travellers. Bring Comfort Items: Familiar objects can provide a sense of security and comfort. Capture the Moments: Focus on creating positive memories with your child. Accessible Accommodations Research Accessible Options: Look for hotels or vacation rentals with accessible rooms and amenities. Contact Accommodations in Advance: Inform them of your child's needs to ensure they can accommodate your requirements. Pack Essential Equipment: Bring any necessary equipment, such as a wheelchair, walker, or medical supplies. Tips for Air Travel Check Airline Policies: Understand the airline's policies regarding medical equipment, carry-on allowances, and assistance. Request Special Assistance: Inform the airline about your child's needs and request any necessary assistance, such as pre-boarding or wheelchair assistance. Pack Essentials in Carry-On: Ensure important medications and supplies are easily accessible. Remember, every family is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. The most important thing is to focus on creating a positive and enjoyable experience for your child and family. With careful planning and preparation, you can create unforgettable memories together.

This week has been particularly challenging for our family. We received the news that after months of relatively little upheaval regarding Elias’ health, our neurologist would like to conduct some additional investigations, which may result in surgery. As any parent of a child with additional or complex needs knows, hearing that your child requires further medical scrutiny is like having the ground pulled out from under you. It’s a moment of fear, uncertainty, and profound worry. And yet, immediately after receiving this news, I had to pull myself together, return to work, and continue being the pillar of strength for our family. When faced with difficult news about your child, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Here’s how I’m navigating this tumultuous time and some strategies that might help you too:     Acknowledge Your Emotions:  It’s okay to feel scared, angry, sad, or even numb. These emotions are valid and part of the process of coming to terms with the news. Allow yourself to feel without judgment.   Seek Immediate Support:  Lean on your partner, a trusted friend, family member, or therapist. Sharing your fears and concerns with someone who understands can provide immediate relief and perspective. We’re always here to listen if you need someone removed from the situation too. Take a Breath:  Literally. Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your mind and body. Even a few minutes of deep, slow breaths can help you regain a sense of control and clarity. I nform Yourself:  Knowledge can be empowering. Researching about the condition and upcoming investigations can help you feel more prepared and less at the mercy of the unknown. But remember that Google is not always our friend, it's important that you don’t drive yourself crazy researching the hell out of everything.   Taking Time for Yourself   Processing difficult news requires personal time and space, which can be hard to find as a busy parent. Here’s how you can carve out moments for yourself:   Schedule Self-Care. Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Whether it’s a quiet cup of tea in the morning, a short walk, or a relaxing bath, these moments are crucial for your mental health. Practice Mindfulness. If you can, engage in mindfulness or meditation practices. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided sessions that can help you stay grounded. Engage in Creative Outlets.  Sometimes expressing your emotions through art, writing, or music can be incredibly therapeutic. Set Boundaries.  Be clear about your limits at work and at home. If you need time to attend appointments or to take a mental health day, communicate this to your employer and family members. Join Support Groups.  Connecting with other parents who are in similar situations can provide comfort and understanding. Online forums like CPG and local support groups can be great resources.   Despite the challenges, it’s important to find moments of positivity and hope. We try to keep our spirits up by celebrating small victories, recognising that every small step forward, no matter how minor, is a victory to be celebrated with our family. We focus on our strengths and our child’s unique qualities which are constant sources of inspiration. We look ahead, focusing on the potential for positive outcomes.   Receiving difficult news about your child’s health is one of the toughest challenges a parent can face. It’s a journey filled with emotional highs and lows, but by acknowledging your feelings, seeking support, balancing your responsibilities, and taking time for yourself, you can navigate this path with resilience. Remember, you are not alone in this; there is strength in community and love in every step you take for your child. And most importantly, there is always hope.   Stay strong, and keep believing in brighter days ahead.

As the UK heads towards the general election next week, families with disabled children are keenly observing party manifestos to understand what the future might hold. Navigating the challenges of supporting a child with disabilities requires robust and reliable support from the government. The Disabled Children’s Partnership  (DCP) has called on all parties to prioritise disabled children and their families. They advocate for the appointment of a Minister for Disabled Children and the production of a cross-party disabled children’s strategy. This non-partisan approach seeks to unify support across the political spectrum. Here, we have scoured the main parties' manifestos, and pulled out any mentions of support for children with special educational needs, or support for families with disabled children, hopefully making your life a little easier. Conservative Party The Conservative Party The Conservative Party has historically focused on economic stability and growth, which they argue creates the conditions for better support services. However, specific commitments to disabled children and their families have not been the centrepiece of their previous campaigns. For this election, they have committed to several key areas: Transforming education for children with special educational needs, ending the postcode lottery of support by delivering 60,000 more school places and a further 15 new free schools for children with special educational needs. Addressing the unsustainable rise in benefit claims for people of working age with a disability or health condition by reforming disability benefits so they are better targeted and reflect people’s genuine needs, while delivering a step-change in mental health provision. Promising to improve PIP assessments to provide a more objective consideration of people’s needs and stop the number of claims from rising unsustainably. While people suffering with mental health conditions face significant challenges, it is not clear that they always face the same additional living costs as people with physical disabilities. (I couldn't quite believe my eyes when I read that last part, but it's in there.) Green Party The Green Party emphasises equality and sustainability, this election they have extended their vision to support families with disabled children through: Providing £5bn to be invested in special needs (SEND) provision within mainstream schools. This means that all schools will have fully accessible buildings and specially trained teachers, and local councils will have the funds to properly support SEND students at school and in getting to school. Restoring the value of disability benefits with an immediate uplift of 5%. Opposing plans to replace Personal Independence Payments (PIP) cash payments with ‘vouchers’, and in the long term reform intrusive eligibility tests like PIP. Making it mandatory for councils to provide free transport for 16–18-year-old pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disability. Pushing for an education system that is fully inclusive, with better funded support for special educational needs and all children provided with a free school meal. Labour Party The Labour Party Labour has traditionally been the party of social welfare, advocating for stronger support systems for the vulnerable. Key proposals include: Taking a community-wide approach, improving inclusivity and expertise in mainstream schools, as well as ensuring special schools cater to those with the most complex needs. Making sure admissions decisions account for the needs of communities and require all schools to co-operate with their local authority on school admissions, SEND inclusion, and place planning Liberal Democrats The Liberal Democrats focus on creating a fair and inclusive society, and often emphasise the importance of education and healthcare. Their main proposals include: Giving local authorities with responsibility for education the powers and resources to act as Strategic Education Authorities for their area, including responsibility for places planning, exclusions, administering admissions including in-year admissions, and SEND functions. Tackling the crisis in special educational needs provision, and help to end the postcode lottery in provision, by: Giving local authorities extra funding to reduce the amount that schools pay towards the cost of a child’s Education, Health and Care Plan. Establishing a new National Body for SEND to fund support for children with very high needs. Making the benefits system work better for disabled people by: Giving disabled people and organisations representing them a stronger voice in the design of benefits policies and processes. Reforming Personal Independence Payment assessments to make the process more transparent and stop unnecessary reassessments, and end the use of informal assessments Significantly extend the electrification of Britain’s rail network, improve stations, to greatly improve disabled access. Providing free access to sign language lessons for parents and guardians of d/Deaf children. Scottish National Party (SNP) While the SNP primarily operates within Scotland, their policies provide a glimpse into region-specific support for disabled children and their families: Scrapping proposed punitive welfare reforms for sick and disabled people which will take support away from some of the most vulnerable people in our communities, and halt DWP repayment demands on Carer’s Allowance. Each party presents a different approach to supporting families with disabled children, reflecting their broader political philosophies. As the election approaches, it is crucial for families to carefully consider these proposals, evaluating which policies align best with their needs and aspirations. By staying informed and engaged, families can make a choice that promises the best future for their children.

Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting on a panel hosted by PR Mums, where we delved into what success looks like for us now as working mums. The discussion was enlightening, inspiring, and filled with some fantastic nuggets of wisdom that I couldn’t wait to share with you all. From hilarious yet poignant truths like “don’t have kids with an arsehole” to innovative company policies, we covered it all. So, let’s dive into how we can all feel more empowered in our jobs, celebrate those small wins, and show up as our authentic selves every day! 1. Make Smart Choices in Life and Work One of my favourite pieces of advice from the panel was this gem: “Don’t have kids with an arsehole.” It’s crucial to have a supportive crew both at home and at work. A good partner and a positive work environment make all the difference. 2. Push for Better Company Policies Create and advocate for company policies that support the best in your workforce, not the worst. This means fighting for flexible hours, remote work options, and solid parental leave. Policies like these help everyone, especially us working mums. 3. Set Boundaries Like a Pro Take a tip from Gen Z and set those boundaries. Clearly define your working hours and stick to them. Turn off those email notifications after work, and don’t feel bad about it. Your time is precious, so guard it fiercely. 4. Celebrate Small Wins In the fast-paced world of PR, it’s easy to miss the small wins. Start a kudos folder in your inbox where you save all the positive feedback and compliments you get. On tough days, it’s a great reminder of how awesome you are. 5. Be Your Authentic Self It was super inspiring to hear from other successful women in PR who haven’t let having kids slow them down. They show up as their real, authentic selves every day, balancing motherhood and a demanding career with style. Embrace your unique journey and bring your whole self to work—kids, challenges, triumphs, and all. 6. Advocate Unapologetically for Your Children As a parent to a child with complex needs, I am unapologetically his advocate. I refuse to hide him from the world and will always show up for him. Balancing this with a career can be challenging, but it’s non-negotiable. Advocating for our children and showing up authentically can inspire others and foster a more inclusive environment. 7. Lean on Your Support Network Build and lean on your support network. Whether it’s family, friends, or fellow PR mums, having a tribe that gets you can be incredibly empowering. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it, and offer support to others too. 8. Prioritise Self-Care Make self-care a top priority. Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, or simply taking time out for yourself can do wonders for your spirit and keep you at your best, both at home and at work. 9. Keep Learning and Growing Stay in the know with industry trends and keep learning. Professional development keeps your skills sharp and boosts your confidence. Attend seminars, take courses, and jump into networking opportunities. 10. Celebrate You Lastly, don’t forget to celebrate yourself! You’re doing an incredible job juggling multiple roles, in fact, it's your superpower, and that’s no small feat. Take pride in your achievements and give yourself the credit you deserve. To all the amazing mums out there, keep shining! Empowerment comes from within, and with these small changes, you can feel more empowered every day. Here’s to showing up, standing out, and celebrating every step of the way.

Navigating the world of specialist equipment for kids can be pretty overwhelming, but our experience getting a Leckey MyWay+ has been a game-changer. I want to share how we got the walker for our son Elias and the amazing difference it’s already making in his life. Elias is a spirited kid with a bright future. His physiotherapists are confident that he’ll walk independently one day. To help him get there, we needed equipment that would support him as he grows and help build his muscle tone. That’s where the Leckey MyWay+ comes in – a top-notch walker designed to give him the support he needs while encouraging him to move around. Getting the Leckey MyWay+ started with lots of assessments and chats with Elias’ team of physiotherapists and occupational therapists. They worked hard to understand what he needed and figured out that the MyWay+ was the perfect fit. The team was super supportive throughout the whole process, making sure all the paperwork and approvals went smoothly. We didn't hear anything for a couple of months while we waited to see if the NHS had signed off on the expense. It was tense. But we were told over and over that no news is good news. Then one day we got the call that it was to be delivered the next day! What a shock as no one had told us it had been approved, but a welcome shock. When Elias first tried out his new MyWay+, we were filled with anticipation. But, as with any new experience, there were some initial hiccups. Elias wasn’t too thrilled about being in the harness on the first day. It was all new and a bit strange for him. But, in true Elias spirit, by day two, he was already getting used to it. It was amazing to see him in his walker, totally engrossed in his favourite movie, Tarzan, all afternoon. The MyWay+ gave him the right mix of support and freedom, letting him explore his surroundings safely and confidently. One of the most heartwarming moments was seeing Elias and his little brother, Emerson, interact in a whole new way. For the first time, they stood face to face. Emerson, always the curious little brother, was fascinated by what was happening. Their eyes met, and you could see the bond between them growing stronger. Moments like these make all the challenges worth it. The Leckey MyWay+ is more than just equipment; it’s a beacon of hope and progress. It’s helping Elias build his muscle tone and practice walking, bringing him closer to the day he’ll walk on his own. The journey hasn’t always been easy, but with the amazing support from our community physiotherapist and Elias’s incredible resilience, we know we’re on the right path. We’re excited to see how Elias continues to grow and thrive with his MyWay+. Every small step he takes is a victory, and we cherish each one. For now, we’ll keep cheering on our little Tarzan as he explores his jungle of growth and discovery, one stride at a time.

We've been dealing with illness in our home this week. My partner has come down with a case of "man flu"—you know, the type where they’re convinced they’re at death’s door because they sneezed twice and have a slight temperature. But, when you have a medically complex child, or one that spent the early months of their life hooked up to machines to help them breathe, it's a whole different ball game. As parents to a medically complex child, we live in a constant state of alert. Every cough, every sneeze, every sigh can send us into a spiral of anxiety. This week, it was our turn to be on high alert. Our child started showing signs of what seemed like a regular cold, but in our world, "regular" doesn't exist. I found myself overanalysing every single symptom. Was that a slight fever or the start of something more sinister? Was that normal tiredness, or was it the kind of lethargy that warrants a trip to the hospital? You see, with a medically complex child, the line between a common cold and a serious health issue is frighteningly thin. Let's face it, folks, Google is not our friend in these situations. One minute, I’m reading about the common cold, and five minutes later, I’m deep into articles about rare diseases and conditions. It’s like falling into a black hole of medical information where everything leads to worst-case scenarios. Seriously, I should be banned from WebMD. But here’s the thing: this hyper-vigilance isn’t just paranoia; it’s a survival mechanism. Our kids don’t always exhibit typical symptoms, and what’s a minor inconvenience for one child could be a major health crisis for ours. So, we analyse, we worry, and we often lose sleep over it. This week, I found myself staring at our child, trying to decode his every move. Is he quieter than usual because his airways are becoming restricted again, or is it just a normal off day? Is that little bit of crankiness just because he didn’t sleep well, or is it a sign of something more serious brewing? I’ve turned into a detective, scrutinising clues that may or may not be there. Of course, in the back of my mind, I know that some of this overanalysing is part of being a parent, especially one with a complex needs child. It's our job to worry and to be extra cautious. But it can also be exhausting and isolating. Sometimes, it feels like the weight of the world is on our shoulders, and the pressure to get it right every time is immense. What gets me through is knowing I'm not alone in this. There’s a whole community of us out there, parents who understand the nuances and the fears that come with caring for our special kiddies. We share our stories, our worries, and our victories, no matter how small they may seem to others. So, as we navigate through yet another week of illness, I remind myself that it's okay to worry, it's okay to overanalyse, and it's okay to seek reassurance from medical professionals whenever we need it. We're doing the best we can in an incredibly challenging situation, and that, my friends, is more than enough. And as for my partner and his man flu? Well, let's just say he's on the mend and has graciously allowed us to focus our worry where it truly belongs. Cheers to that, and here’s to hoping for a healthier week ahead for all of us!

Advocating for a child with complex needs can feel like you’re constantly lost in a labyrinth of appointments, assessments, and interventions. Amidst all the professionals involved in their care, from therapists to educators to medical specialists, parents often find themselves playing various roles to ensure their child receives the best support possible. One of the dynamics that has emerged for our family, is that of good cop/bad cop. My partner and I have become extremely familiar with this dynamic as we navigate the intricate web of advocating for our child's complex needs. While it may seem cliché, the good cop/bad cop approach has become an essential strategy in our advocacy toolkit, allowing us to balance assertiveness with empathy in our interactions with professionals. I naturally gravitate towards the role of the kind and empathetic advocate (I like to be liked by authority figures!). I strive to maintain positive relationships with the professionals involved in our child's care, fostering open communication and collaboration. However, there are moments when frustration and disappointment bubble to the surface, prompting a shift in dynamics. While I am absolutely capable of being assertive and fighting for my child’s care, and have done fiercely and without hesitation, there are times when I am acutely aware that the person I am annoyed with is a permanent fixture in Elias’ care, and I am very conscious of how we maintain a good relationship in the future if I call them out or criticise them. That's where my partner steps in as the "bad cop." When emotions are running high and the need for assertiveness arises, he takes the lead. It's a role he embraces wholeheartedly, knowing that sometimes tough love is necessary to effect change. He still wants me to be able to express my frustrations authentically, but recognises my hesitation to burn a bridge with someone who will also need to be an advocate for Elias. So, in these situations, when I find myself teetering on the edge of anger that something isn’t being done fast enough, or someone isn’t taking my request seriously, he encourages me to write exactly what I want to say and he will be the "face" of it. He is happy to be the parent our professionals don’t want to deal with. This allows me to maintain my role as the "nice" one while still advocating effectively for our child - this also means that when I do get angry over something it feels so much more impactful. Navigating the complicated landscape of advocating for a child with complex needs often requires parents to adopt a number of strategies to find the dynamic that works for them. I know that not everyone is in a position to play these roles, and equally, some people may not have an issue calling out behaviours like I do, and I respect that wholeheartedly! But for us, by leveraging our respective strengths and temperaments, my partner and I have found a balance that allows us to advocate effectively while maintaining positive relationships with the professionals involved in our child's care. Through open communication, empathy, and assertiveness, we continue to champion our child's rights and needs every step of the way.

When you have a two-year-old experiencing sensory overload, the world can seem like an overwhelming place for both the child and the parent. My son is particularly sensitive to crowds of people around him, and too many new faces paying him attention. His reactions in public spaces can be intense, and they often don’t align with what people expect from a child his age. The Public’s Expectations vs. A Toddler’s Needs When my son experiences sensory overload, one of his immediate reactions is to seek solitude. It’s his way of coping, of pressing the pause button on the world’s relentless stimuli. However, this need for space often clashes with the well-intentioned instincts of others. In public, when a child is upset, the natural response is to offer comfort through touch. But for my son, this well-meaning gesture can exacerbate his distress. He doesn’t want to be held; he wants to be left alone. It’s a response that can be difficult for onlookers to understand. Respecting the Bubble What he needs is not a hug, but room to breathe. It’s a ‘sensory break’—a moment of calm to allow his senses to reset. As a parent, it’s my role to facilitate this and to educate those around us. I’ve learned to be his advocate, explaining to onlookers that while their instinct to help is appreciated, what he really needs is a little bit of space. Tips for Parents of Sensory-Sensitive Toddlers Here are some tips tailored for parents with young children like mine, who might need a sensory break in public: Know Your Child’s Limits: Keep outings short and avoid overstimulating environments when possible. Communicate with Caregivers: Ensure anyone who looks after your child understands their need for space during sensory breaks. Comfort Objects: Bring along a favourite toy or blanket that can provide comfort without the need for physical holding. Quiet Corners: Identify quiet areas where you can retreat if your child becomes overwhelmed. Educate and Advocate: Gently inform those around you about your child’s needs, advocating for their space and comfort. Routine and Predictability: Maintain a consistent routine to provide a sense of security and predictability for your child. Monitor for Signs: Be vigilant for early signs of sensory overload and act quickly to provide relief. Self-Care for Parents: Remember to take care of yourself too. Managing sensory overload can be challenging, and it’s important to seek support when needed. The Journey of Understanding It’s a learning curve, not just for us as a family, but for society as a whole. We’re slowly moving towards a world that recognises the diverse needs of individuals, but there’s still a long way to go. Each public outing is an opportunity to spread awareness, to show that sometimes, stepping back is the most supportive action one can take. As a parent of a two-year-old with sensory processing needs, I understand the challenges that come with managing sensory overload in public. It’s a journey of patience, understanding, and advocacy. By sharing our experiences and strategies, we can support each other and foster a more inclusive society for our little ones.

As parents, we cherish milestone moments in our children's lives, celebrating their joys and triumphs with love and pride. Just this week, my youngest son celebrated his first birthday, a milestone filled with laughter, balloons, and beautiful memories at the zoo with our extended family. However, even amidst the celebrations, the pendulum swiftly swung, reminding me of the weight of responsibility that comes with parenting a child with additional needs. The very next day brought with it a hospital admission for Elias (our two year old with CHARGE syndrome), stirring up a whirlwind of emotions, including guilt over not being able to devote all my attention to my youngest around his special day. Celebrating Milestones Amidst Challenges: The juxtaposition of celebrating my youngest son's first birthday while preparing for my eldest's hospital admission epitomised the rollercoaster nature of parenting. It's a reminder that life's joyous moments often coincide with moments of adversity, requiring us to navigate the complex terrain of emotions with resilience and grace. Despite the challenges, celebrating milestones like birthdays serves as a beacon of hope, a reminder that amidst the storm, moments of joy still shine through. Balancing Responsibilities: As parents, we wear many hats, juggling the responsibilities of caregiving, advocacy, and emotional support for our children. When one child requires extra care due to complex or additional needs, it can bring about feelings of guilt and uncertainty about adequately meeting the needs of their siblings. The delicate balance of tending to the immediate needs of one child while ensuring that their siblings feel loved and valued requires patience, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to prioritising each child's well-being. Embracing Imperfection: In the face of adversity, it's essential to embrace imperfection and extend compassion to ourselves as parents. Guilt over not being able to spend every moment with my youngest on his birthday serves as a reminder that perfection is an illusion, and what truly matters is the love and connection we cultivate with our children, even amidst life's unpredictable twists and turns. Embracing imperfection allows us to let go of unrealistic expectations and focus on being present and supportive for our children, no matter the circumstances. Finding Moments of Connection: Amidst the chaos of hospital admissions and medical appointments, finding moments of connection with each of my children becomes even more precious. Whether it's stealing a quiet moment to read a bedtime story, sharing a heartfelt conversation over breakfast, or simply cuddling together on the couch, these moments serve as anchors of love and reassurance amidst turbulent seas. By prioritising quality over quantity, we can strengthen our bond with each child and reaffirm their importance in our lives. Navigating sibling dynamics amidst medical or complex challenges is a journey fraught with highs and lows, joys and sorrows. By embracing the delicate balance of celebrating milestones, balancing responsibilities, embracing imperfection, and finding moments of connection, we can navigate the complexities of parenting with compassion, resilience, and unwavering love. Each child brings their own unique light into our lives, illuminating our path forward with hope, courage, and boundless possibility. As a treat, here is the cake I managed to bake for my youngest's birthday party thanks to my mother in law watching the kids while I busied myself in the kitchen!