In my last blog I stated that I hate the word “normal”. This prompted me to do a bit of research and you may be surprised as to what I discovered!

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the word “normal” means:

“Conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected.”

For most of our lives, we’ve been told that normal looks a certain way — tidy routines, predictable behaviors, quiet mealtimes, and neatly organized days. But in our awesome neurodivergent family, that definition doesn’t fit. And honestly, we’re okay with that.

Because our kind of normal looks very different — and it works beautifully for us.

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In our home, what might look unusual to outsiders is simply everyday life for us.

We build our routines around our neurotypes, needs, and energy levels, not around what others think we “should” be doing. Some days we start more slowly, with quiet corners, soft lights, and time to regulate before tackling the day. Other days, our living room becomes a sensory play zone, full of music, movement, and laughter.

Our flexible structure gives us the freedom to meet everyone’s needs — including our PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) son’s need for autonomy and choice. We know that choice and flexibility help him to feel safe, and when he feels safe, we all thrive, not just survive

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Neuroaffirming, Not ‘Fixing’

We don’t see anyone in our family as needing to be “fixed” or “changed.” We are not broken.
Instead, we approach each day with a neuroaffirming mindset — one that recognizes every brain as valid and valuable. Each of us has a part to play and is an integral place in our family.

When someone needs quiet time, we honor it. When emotions run high, we focus on connection before correction. We celebrate stims, special interests, and creative communication.

Ourmain aim isn’t to make our children (or ourselves) fit into a “neurotypical world”, but to create a home where everyone belongs exactly as they are. No masking needed!

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So, our home may look abit different from others — we have soft lighting instead of harsh overhead bulbs, cozy sensory corners, weighted blankets, noise-cancelling headphones, and fidget toys all over the place!

This isn’t indulgence; it’s accessibility.
A sensory-friendly environment allows us all to regulate and reset — to feel safe, comfortable, and capable.

This is what normal looks like for us.

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So We Are Redefining Normal

If “normal” means “usual, typical, or expected,” then our life is normal — for our family.

What’s usual for us might seem unusual to others, but that’s the beauty of neurodiversity: there isn’t one right way to live, parent, learn, or love. Every family has its own rhythm, and ours happens to be built on understanding, acceptance, and flexibility.

So yes, we’re a little different. PROUDLY SO!
Our days don’t follow a traditional path and never have.
But our home is full of unconditional love joy, creativity, and compassion — and that, to us, is perfectly normal.

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Ian and I have been together for almost 25 years and although our marriage hasn’t been plain sailing (no marriage ever is) I know that he knows me so well that often he see’s things in me that I cant!

These last two decades have proven to me — I’m often the last to notice when I’m starting to struggle. It’s not that I’m ignoring it on purpose; it’s just that the signs creep in slowly and quietly. I start moving less, my motivation dips, I stop replying to messages, and yet, somehow, I convince myself everything’s fine.

It’s usually my lovely husband who spots it first. He seems to know before I do when I’m heading into a low patch. He’ll notice the little things — my tone, my energy, the way I retreat into myself — and gently ask, “Are you okay?” Sometimes I brush it off, often I get defensive. But deep down, I know he’s right.

I genuinly really value that about him — the way he can see me even when I can’t see myself. It’s a reminder that sometimes we need the people who love us to hold up a mirror. And while it can be hard to face, that mirror can also be what helps us find our way back.

So, Why It’s So Hard to Notice Our Own Struggles?

Looking back, I think part of the reason it’s so difficult is that our minds are good at adapting, for me masking is a part of my everyday and often I forget who I really am. When things start to get heavy, we tell ourselves it’s just stress, tiredness, or hormones. We normalise feeling off because it happens slowly — one small compromise at a time. Sadly , if you spend months or years feeling like this , it becomes your ” normal”… Sorry, I HATE that word!!!

For many people, especially those who are neurodivergent like me, this can be even trickier. We so expertly learn to “mask” our difficulties — to keep going, to blend in, to cope quietly. After years of doing that, it becomes second nature to push through instead of pause. So when we start slipping, we don’t always recognise it as something more than a bad day.

I’ve also learned how important it is to reach out when we notice someone else struggling — even if we’re not sure. It doesn’t have to be dramatic or intrusive. It can be as simple as sending a message or saying, “You don’t seem quite yourself lately, how are you doing?”

The truth is, sometimes people don’t know how to ask for help, or they don’t even realise they need it. A small gesture can make a huge difference. And honestly, even if you’re wrong and they’re perfectly fine, it doesn’t matter — you’ve still shown that you care. You’ve still done your part.

But… There Is Also The Denial We Don’t Talk About

Denial can be sneaky. I’ve caught myself thinking, “I can handle this,” or, “I’ve been worse before.” It’s easy to minimise your own feelings because admitting you’re struggling feels like weakness, fixing things is too big a task — or because you’re afraid of being “too much.”

But I’ve learned (and am still learning) that acknowledging you’re not okay doesn’t make you weak. It’s actually one of the strongest things you can do. It’s also one of the kindest — because it gives the people who love you a chance to show up for you.

I’m a big believer that we all have a role to play in each other’s wellbeing. Here are a few things I’ve found helpful — both as someone who struggles and someone who tries to support others:

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These days, when Ian tells me he senses I’m dipping, I try not to dismiss it, although my initial reaction is usually defensiveness. I take a breath and check in with myself. Sometimes he’s wrong — but more often than not, he’s right. ( Dont tell him though please 😉 )

And I’ve realised that’s not a sign of weakness. It’s a reminder that we’re not meant to go through life alone. We need those people who can see the clouds gathering before we do — and we need to be that person for others too. Sometimes that feels awkward or like an overstep, but you never know, you could save a life!

Because in the end, even if you reach out and they’re fine, you’ve still reminded them that they matter. And that simple act — seeing someone, really seeing them — might just be what gets them through.

www.neurocreativemedia.co.uk

Ian and I have never made a secret of the fact that being parent carers is tough at times. Don’t get us wrong, we ADORE our children and know how lucky we are to have them, but it’s not easy.

Firstly, the whole “18 summers” thing is not our reality. Archie will need our full care for his whole life and that can occasionally terrify us (although we also love that he’ll never leave home 😉 ). Occasionally, people will say things like “you dont know that” to which we reply “we do!”. That’s because we have fully accepted. We have traveled through all the emotional phases of acceptance, denial being the first one for us and we now see our role. A role that we are truthfully proud to play! However, we do still need the odd “Beckie and Ian time” and last weekend was just that.

This weekend, Ian and I slipped away for a much-needed break in London: a blend of work, fun, and proper “us” time. We headed into the city for the tes SEND Show (and yes – we balanced the “educational/professional” bit with the “have fun as a couple” bit).

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The tes SEND show 2025 – In LBDC

The tes SEND Show is one of the UK’s leading events for special educational needs and disability (SEND) — bringing together educators, parents, carers, practitioners, and suppliers to connect, learn and explore inclusive practice. It is my work version of Disneyland… I LOVE IT!!

It was held at the Business Design Centre in London and offered a rich programme: CPD-certified seminars, a “Parent, Carer & Teacher Forum”, and over 150 exhibitors showcasing resources, technologies and services aimed at supporting children & young people with SEN.

For us, it was the perfect mix of being professionally curious and personally connected: we wandered the exhibitor stands, chatted with folks and grabbed ideas. We caught up with friends we have made over the years of attendance, like the brilliant Dale Pickles, made new connections but left enough enegry for us to just be us!

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London – Just Us

After the show, we carved out some proper couple time. Now dont worry, we havent gone all mushy 😉 We had a lovely stroll, did some sightseeing and a little bit of indulgence — and it felt so good to shift from carer mode into “Ian & Beckie” mode. It was nice to remeber all the fun things I like about my husband, it’s sometimes all too easy to forget when you are both run off your feet in the day to day!

It was a reminder that these rare breaks really matter. Because, being a parent carer is wonderful, but it’s also constant… and having a moment where we don’t have to think primarily about caring, logistics, managing things for someone else — really gives you a reset.

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When you’re a carer (especially a parent carer) you’re always “on”. You’re endlessly managing the needs of someone else, balancing work, support, home life, and more. It’s meaningful work, wonderful work— but exhausting, and the value of stepping away is huge.

It gives perspective: you realise that you are allowed to be Ian & Beckie too — not just “carer” or “parent”. It restores energy. Even a short break can fill your emotional tank, help you reconnect, laugh, recharge. It strengthens your relationship time together, just for you two, reminds you of what you share beyond the caring role. It improves your well-being, for both of you. That bit of “normal life” helps you show up better in your carer/parent role too.

And yes — we came back refreshed, motivated, and glad we made the time.

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So if you’re reading this and you’re thinking “we should take a break” — do it. Even if you’re deeply involved in caring, even if it feels “impossible right now” — the benefits are real. Taking time for you doesn’t mean you’re neglecting your caring role. It means you’re sustaining it.

And if you ever get an invite or chance to attend the tes SEND Show (or something similar) — go. Combine purpose with pleasure. Learn, explore, and then let yourself off the hook to just be.

Here’s to next years weekend escape, Ian & Beckie-style.

For the past five years, I’ve poured my heart into running a non-profit that proudly supports autistic individuals and their families. That work — the community we’ve built, the voices we’ve uplifted, and the awareness we’ve raised — will always be part a huge of me. It’s so much more than a project; it’s Archie’s legacy.

But as anyone who walks this path knows, growth often comes with new directions. And now, it feels like the right time to take a deep breath, trust what I’ve learned, and branch out into something new.

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Introducing NeuroCreative Media.

After 17 years of continuous learning, creating, and advocating, I’m so proud (and slightly terrified!) to launch my new venture: NeuroCreative Media. For details, day rates and services info check out our brand new website by clicking the link below.

https://www.neurocreativemedia.co.uk/

This new and exiting chapter brings together everything I’ve come to love — consultation, advocacy, and digital creation — all grounded in my neuroaffirming ethos. My mission is to collaborate with big hitting charities, schools, companies, and individuals whose values align with ours: inclusion, understanding, and respect for all kinds of minds.

Whether it’s through digital storytelling, awareness campaigns, training, or creative projects, NeuroCreative Media is here to help share the message that our brains — in all their remarkable diversity — deserve to be celebrated.

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A New Purpose

For me personally, this is a big step. It’s scary to move into something new, but it’s also deeply exciting. Over the years, I’ve gained so many skills — from public speaking and advocacy to creative design, digital media, and connecting with communities.

Its finally MY time to grow and to achieve my own personal goals. Goals that as many parent/ carers will testify , have had to be placed on the back burner for almost two decades!

Now I get to use all of my life experiences and education in a new way — to help others tell their stories, raise awareness, and create real, lasting change.

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Neurodivergence and mental health isn’t just a topic for me — it’s my whole life. It’s my family, my community, and my own identity. With every project, I bring not only professional experience and training, but also lived experience and a genuine passion for representation that feels real.

Because when we talk about autism, ADHD, and mental health, we’re not just talking about challenges — we’re talking about creativity, resilience, brilliance and connection.

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Starting something new for me is always a mix of nerves and excitement, but I know this next step will open doors to even more meaningful work assisting in real change from the top!

NeuroCreative Media is built on the same foundation that’s guided me from the start: compassion, authenticity, and a belief in the power of storytelling to make the world a more inclusive place.

Here’s to the next chapter — to new collaborations, creative projects, and continuing to celebrate the incredible diversity of the human brain.

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🖋️ Written by Rebecca Clapcott — Writer, Digital Creator & Neurodivergent Advocate
Owner of NeuroCreative Media.

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Now before you panic, we want to reassure you, it is NEVER too late to make positive changes. If you are worried that the childhood period has passed so you cant support, you can take a breath. This is simply the ideal from my own lived experience.

We know that across the world, autistic adults (like me) are experiencing high levels of mental health struggles—often linked not to neurotype itself, but to how the wider society has misunderstood and treated them. Anxiety, depression, burnout, and isolation are super common outcomes for people who grow up feeling unseen, misunderstood, or pressured to “mask” who they are. If we want to change the ending to this really sad story, the solution has to begin much earlier: in schools.

It seems as though the children who are supported, educated, and advocated for in their early years are more likely to grow into self-assured, self-aware adults. Assured adults are not accidental—they are nurtured by environments that recognise their value, listen to their voices, and affirm their differences.

For us as an organisation, we feel that for many autistic children, the experience of being “seen” is transformative. When educators, peers, and families take the time to understand their individual needs and perspectives, they learn that their feelings matter. Validation gives them the courage to express themselves and the resilience to navigate those daily challenges. On the other hand, being ignored or dismissed can plant seeds of self-doubt that can follow them into adulthood.

Archie and I truly believe that a child who feels safe sharing their emotions in school is more likely to grow into an adult who can regulate, reflect, and advocate for their mental wellbeing in adulthood.

So what can schools do NOW?

Schools are uniquely placed to prevent future mental health struggles among autistic adults. What a gift that is! Schools can:

These steps won’t just create a more inclusive classroom; they can create lifelong protective factors against poor mental health in adulthood. That is LIFECHANGING!

Why WE Encourage Advocacy Beyond the Classroom.

Support also means advocating for children within systems—whether it’s securing the right educational support, ensuring their voices are heard in decisions, or challenging stigma in our wider society. When kids grow up with champions in their corner, they are more likely to internalize the belief that they deserve respect and care. We at Awesome Archie want to champion YOU!

From “Seen” Children to Thriving, Mental Health Aware Adults

For us it seems that assured and self-aware autistic adults will come from autistic children whose feelings were heard, whose differences were honored, and whose identities were celebrated. Schools and parents have the power to reduce the number of autistic adults struggling with their mental health—not by “fixing” them, but by building environments where they are safe to be wholesomely themselves.

The path to healthier autistic adulthood is clear: support, education, and advocacy today creates resilience, confidence, and self-acceptance tomorrow.

Lifelong change begins by truly seeing the child that is right in front of us now!

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There’s a lot of noise out there about what “causes” autism. You’ve probably seen headlines linking it to medicines, diet, or even parenting styles. Let’s clear this up right away: autism is not caused by taking paracetamol, eating the wrong snack, or any other tripe you may hear in the media right now. Autism “happens” because two people come together, pass on their genetics, and create a wonderfully unique new human being. It’s hereditary, woven into the beautiful blueprint of who you are. Even if you didnt realise that these genes are in your family….THEY ARE IN THERE SOMEWHERE!!!

Your brain doesn’t suddenly “become” autistic because of something you did or didn’t do. You are born the way you are meant to be — autistic brains are just wired uniquely. And that uniqueness is natural, valid, and SO worth celebrating.

Here’s the thing: autism is not a disease. It’s not an illness to be afraid of, or something that needs to be “cured.” It’s a neurotype — simply another way for a brain to experience and interact with the world. Some brains thrive on routine, some see patterns others miss, some dive deep into passions with incredible focus. These differences add such a richness and diversity to humanity.

So instead of worrying about what “caused” autism, let’s focus on what makes life better for autistic people: understanding, acceptance, and compassion. The real medicine isn’t found in a pill — it’s in creating environments where autistic people can be themselves, feel safe, and be celebrated for who they are.

Because at the end of the day, every autistic person is exactly as they were always meant to be: beautifully and uniquely made. 💙

Every so often, I scroll through the news or social media and see conversations about “fixing” autism, about “curing” it, or about how it’s some kind of problem to be solved. And every time, I feel that horendous ache — because this couldn’t be further from the truth. Today was so hard for me personally with all that is in the news .

Let’s say it clearly: autism is not an illness. Autistic people ARE NOT BROKEN! There is no cure, because there doesn’t need to be one. Autism is a neurotype — a different way of thinking, of processing the world, of communicating and socialising. The autistic brain is not wrong or faulty; it’s simply wired uniquely.

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Being autistic means experiencing the world through a unique lens. Yes, there are huge challenges — navigating a world built for neurotypical people is really exhausting. Sensory overloads, social misunderstandings, or the endless need to “mask” can make life tough. We live life like this every day! But those challenges don’t mean autism itself is wrong.

It just means society hasn’t quite caught up yet in terms of accessibility, understanding, and acceptance.

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Our Awesome unique Autistic strengths as a neurodivergent family.

In our family, autism brings so many blessings. Here are just a few:

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Stop Trying to “Fix” What Isn’t Broken

The idea of “curing” autism or ” fixing autistic people”suggests something is wrong, when in fact, autistic people are whole, complete, and valuable exactly as they are. What needs changing is not autistic people, but the barriers, stigma, and lack of understanding they face.

We don’t need to “fix” autistic people — we need to fix the systems that exclude them, the attitudes that shame them, and the myths that misrepresent them.

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Being a neurodivergent family isn’t always easy. There are hard days, yes. But there are also moments of pure magic: the pride of watching our children thrive when they’re accepted, the joy of learning from their perspectives, and the deep sense of community we’ve found by connecting with other families like ours.

Autism is woven into the very fabric of who we are as a family — and we wouldn’t change that for the world.

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If you take one thing from this blog, let it be this: autism is not something to be feared, pitied, or cured. It’s a different way of being human. A valid, valuable, and beautiful way.

So let’s stop trying to fix what isn’t broken — and instead start celebrating the gifts, strengths, and unique voices that autism brings to our world.

At Awesome Archie, everything we do is built on kindness, community, and a shared belief that every autistic/ neurodivergent child deserves to feel understood, supported, and celebrated.

Over the last 5 years, we’ve been able to provide so many families and schools with free resources – from activity packs to helpful guides – all designed to make life a little easier and a lot more joyful. We also now run Awesome Archie’s Connection Club, giving children a safe and welcoming space to connect with others, and we deliver free teacher training, helping schools to create truly neuro-affirming classrooms.

But here’s the truth – none of this would be possible without the generosity of people like you. 💙

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🙏 Why We’ve Launched Our GoFundMe

Running Awesome Archie takes time, energy, and resources. From printing materials, to creating new packs, to funding our Connection Club sessions, it all adds up. We want to keep these things free for families and schools, because we know how much of a difference that makes.

That’s why we’ve launched a GoFundMe page – to give our community a chance to support us in continuing this important work.

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💌 Why Donate?

When you donate, you’re not just giving money – you’re giving:
✨ A child the chance to feel proud of who they are.
✨ A teacher the tools to better understand their students.
✨ A family the relief of knowing they’re not alone.

Every single pound goes directly into keeping resources free, running groups, and expanding the support we can offer.

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🌈 How to Donate

It couldn’t be simpler:

1. Head over to our GoFundMe page 👉 https://gofund.me/c9480e86b
2. Choose the amount you’d like to give – big or small, every donation makes a difference.
3. Share our link with friends, family, or colleagues who care about creating a more inclusive world.

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💙 Thank You

We are endlessly grateful for the kindness shown by our community. Together, we’re building something really special – a world where ALL CHILDREN feel accepted, valued, and celebrated exactly as they are.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

👉 https://gofund.me/c9480e86b

With love and gratitude,
The Awesome Archie Team 💙✨

What a busy but brilliant week it’s been! Archie and I had the incredible honour of being invited onto BBC Radio Solent, where we were interviewed by the brilliant Alun Newman. It was such a pleasure to be able to share our thoughts about the “Make a Difference Awards” – an initiative that shines a light on everyday heroes who are making their communities stronger, kinder, and more connected.

Earlier in the year, Archie and I were lucky enough to serve as round one judges for the awards. Reading through the nominations was both humbling and uplifting – every single story showed the power of compassion, resilience, and community spirit. I then met up with fellow judges at the BBC solent studios to whittle them down to the final 4. Not an easy task I can tell you!

This week, it all came together at the glitzy awards ceremony held at Fratton Park Portsmouth Football Ground. The event was nothing short of magical. We were surrounded by people whose actions, big and small, are truly transforming lives. One highlight was meeting Aaron Phipps, Paralympian and inspirational speaker, whose story left us deeply moved. He even recorded a personalised message for my students 🙂 THANKS ARRON 🙂

The atmosphere in the room was electric – full of joy, gratitude, and a sense of shared purpose. It reminded us that no matter how small an act of kindness might seem, it can ripple out in ways we may never imagine.

We left the awards feeling grateful, humbled, and deeply appreciative. To have played a small part in recognising such extraordinary individuals is a privilege we won’t forget.

A huge thank you to the BBC, Alun Newman, Helen Head and everyone involved in the Make a Difference Awards. You’ve given us memories we’ll treasure – and more importantly, you’ve given recognition to people who truly deserve it.

@awesomearchie_

Humbled, grateful,proud. What an honour to be a round one judge for this year’s “make a difference” awards And to chat to the legend. Aaron Phipps @BBC @Aaron Phipps – Paralympian #community #celebrate #radiosolent #awesomearchie #awards

♬ Higher Love – Ben Fox

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Awesome Archie’s Connection Club Launches at The Priory School 🎉

This week also saw the very first session of Awesome Archie’s Connection Club at The Priory School – and what a fantastic start it was!

The club has been created by Archie and I as a space where children can come together at lunchtime to connect, have fun, and explore their creativity. Whether it’s making new friends, sharing ideas, or just enjoying a safe and welcoming environment, the focus is all about building positive connections. The playground isn’t ideal for everyone and Archie sadly remembers that all too well, so, we have created this initiative to ensure that ALL children have the chance to make positive lunchtime memories.

Our first session went brilliantly. The children jumped straight in, showing such energy, imagination, and kindness towards one another. It was so inspiring to see how quickly they embraced the idea – laughing together, sharing stories, and letting their creativity shine.

We’re already buzzing with ideas for future sessions, and we can’t wait to see how the club continues to grow week by week. The aim is simple but powerful: to give every child the chance to feel included, valued, and part of something special.

A huge well done to The team at the Priory for supporting us with this wonderful initiative. Thankyou for giving us this opportunity 🙂 The smiles on the children’s faces said it all – and we’re so excited to be back again next week for round two!

Meet Wonderdog Winnie 🐾

We’re so excited to introduce you to the newest (and furriest) member of our family/ team – Wonderdog Winnie, our brand-new Shih Tzu puppy!

Winnie has only been with us a short while, but she’s already bringing so much joy. Training is going well so far – she’s picking up the basics quickly, and we’re making steady progress with eating and sleeping routines too. Today was a special milestone: Winnie had her very first walk on the lead! She trotted along like a little superstar, curious about the world around her.

But Winnie isn’t just here to be adorable (though she has that covered!). She has an important role ahead of her. Once she’s mastered all the basic commands, Winnie will begin her journey to become a therapy dog. The plan is for her to be Archie’s emotional support dog, giving comfort and companionship, while also joining us in schools to inspire and connect with children.

We know she’s going to make a huge difference with her gentle nature, waggy tail, and loving personality. Watching her grow, learn, and step into this special role is something we’re really looking forward to.

For now, though, we’re just enjoying the puppy cuddles, the funny zoomies, and the many little adventures that come with having a new four-legged friend. Wonderdog Winnie – the journey begins! 🐶✨

When it comes to planning a holiday that meets ALL of our individual needs as a family its either Disneyland , a Cruise or Center Parcs that feel like a safe bet for us. But, we have NEVER been brave enough to face two whole weeks away. The medical prep, clothes washing and length of time from OUR familiar has always put me off. I can now happily say…. I had nothing to worry about!

The kids Grandma ( Ians mum) generously treated us, Ians sister and her daughter to a wonderful two week Mediterranean cruise for we are ENORMOUSLY grateful . Although you wont see them alot in our public content ( they don’t fancy being TikTok famous just yet;) ) We shared a wonderful two weeks as a family of 9 and it is a memory that we will share forever with utter joy! Getting to spend so much time with our beautiful niece and seeing our children care for her was breathtaking. The games nights, the food and the laughs were truly AWESOME!

As always, we like to share our experiences and the things we learned to help you on your next neurodivergent family journey so… here’s what we learned and why we at Awesome Archie non profit HIGHLY recommend Arvia for your family!

The Arvia is the newest Excel-class ship and takes family fun to the next level — blending sun-soaked adventure with child-focused brilliance. For me that is key , happy kids means a happy me!

Whether you’ve got little explorers, screen-loving tweens, or sensory-seeking neurodivergent children, Arvia makes it easier to say “yes” to a holiday where everyone actually gets to relax.

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Kids’ Clubs That Actually Understand Kids

P&O’s Reef clubs are broken down by age, and they are free of charge:

These are so more than just babysitting services. The staff are friendly, energetic, and trained to engage children through fun, inclusive activities like arts and crafts, games, themed nights, and movie sessions. For children who need more structure or sensory-friendly environments, the team is usually happy to accommodate if you speak with them in advance. My neice Mollie went into surfers kids club every day and absolutely LOVED it!

Top tip: Let them know if your child is neurodivergent or needs adjustments — many parents report a thoughtful and flexible response!

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Altitude Adventure Zone – Ropes, Golf & Laser Tag!

Arvia brings action-packed outdoor fun to the seas with:

It’s perfect for burning off energy while sailing through the sunshine.

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Onboard Cinema & Shows Made for All Ages

Arvia’s Ocean Studios cinema plays a mix of new releases and family-friendly favorites in a quiet, comfortable environment — great for downtime. And the Headliners Theater puts on West-End style shows and performances that are often suitable (and exciting!) for older children and teens. HANDS DOWN our favorite shows were those given by The Animal Guyz. I am going to write a blog dedicated to them and the work that they do as it deserves more than just a para on here! Keep your eyes peeled for that soon.

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Food Freedom – Archie and Herbie had so much choice!

From The Quays (a casual dining area with a mix of global street food) to pizza and pasta favourites, there’s something for every palate — including picky ones.

You’ll find:

Some venues like The Beach House are super relaxed and family-friendly, so no worries if you’ve got noisy little ones of kids that struggle to whisper like Arch.

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Cabin Comfort & Safe Spaces

Cabins are thoughtfully laid out with:

When we needed a moment away from the crowds we just headed back to your cabin for a cool-down and a reset. We brought comfort items from home (teddies, fidgets, blankets) to make it feel familiar and we soon settled in.

We had a room with a small covered balcony which meant that even in our wind down time, I could sit and hear the ocean and feel the sun while the boys chilled on their tablet or played chess. AWESOME!

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Sensory-Friendly Tips for Neurodivergent Families

While Arvia isn’t exclusively set up for neurodivergent children, many families have found it easier than expected to navigate with the right preparation:

Bonus idea: Bring noise-cancelling headphones, familiar snacks, and visuals/schedules to help with transitions.

For us, Arvia isn’t just a ship — it’s a floating holiday village packed with imagination, activity, and opportunities to connect as a family. Whether your child wants to climb, splash, chill, or create, there’s something for every energy level and every personality.

It’s not always easy to find a holiday that meets the needs of every member of the family, but P&O’s Arvia comes impressively close — and for that, we’re THRILLED!

See you again next summer Arvia!!

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