This weekend we had the pleasure of attending the Autism & ADHD Show in London again and as always, it was a day packed with laughter, learning, connections, inspiration, and plenty of conversations that left me thinking long after I got home.

Archie wasn’t up for it this year ( last year he was amazing but it certainly took a lot out of him) and so Joshua looked after him so we could attend . Daisy proudly came as his representative as she so often does, and did an incredible job. Massive thanks to Josh and Daisy for being incredible superhero siblings and amazing supports for both Archie and I.

Going to London twice a year to be with like minded folk is genuinely one of my favourite things to do. One of the highlights of the day was spending time walking around the stand area, where I had the opportunity to meet so many passionate people and organisations dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families.

A proper standout moment for me was meeting the truly awesome Chrissa from Sunshine Support. If you’ve ever come across Sunshine Support, you’ll know the incredible work they do helping families navigate the often complex world of SEND, education, and support services. Chrissa was absolutely amazing to speak with. Her knowledge, passion, and genuine commitment to helping families, including mine is infectious. I did have a bit of a fan girl moment and got over excited but she was lovely 🙂 We have exchanged deets and so hopefully we will stay in touch moving forward.

Another highlight was seeing my truly lovely pal Dale Pickles. Dale and his equally amazing business partner always give so much energy, insight, and practical thinking to the SEND and neurodiversity space. Dale is my kind of “go to” when it comes to me supporting Archie into adulthood and hopefully finding a career that suits his own social struggles but immense talents for many things . Dale has built his own successful career without compromising his own self or needs. I want that for Arch!

In the UK, only around 30–34% of working-age autistic people are in employment, compared with over 80% of non-disabled people. Research also shows that autistic graduates are twice as likely to be unemployed as their non-autistic peers, with only around 36% securing full-time work within 15 months of graduating. Although we NEVER put a ceiling on our sons ability, he knows that he will likely not gain a degree, so you can imagine our fears for him as a contributing and fully fulfilled adult.

Many autistic people want to work but face unfair barriers such as inaccessible recruitment processes, sensory challenges in the workplace, difficulties with social expectations, and a lack of understanding or reasonable adjustments from employers. These statistics are not a reflection of autistic people’s abilities—they highlight the need for more inclusive workplaces that recognise and value neurodivergent talent.

This is why although Archie isn’t developmentally ready yet to work, we are doing all we can to ensure that he has opportunities if and when that time comes.

While catching up with all the latest, Dale told me about a chat he had with someone who had coined a rather lovely word that I thought would be perfect to use as a kind of theme for this weeks blog. “Neurodrifting.”

The term immediately resonated with me. It is 100% me, 100% of the time.

Neurodrifting or me, a Neurodrifter, describes many of us within the neurodivergent community who naturally drift from interest to interest, project to project, and idea to idea. Rather than following a single, linear path, we often explore multiple passions, diving deeply into one thing before being pulled towards another exciting discovery. For those of us with ADHD, autism, or a combination of both, this experience can feel incredibly familiar.

Too often society expects consistency, specialisation, and sticking rigidly to one thing for uber long periods of time. But Neurodrifting acknowledges something many of us have always known: our curiosity, creativity, and desire to explore different interests is not a flaw. It’s simply part of how our minds work and its certainly helped me to evolve and grow!

I LOVE this term and so now proudly call myself a neurodrifter!

Listening to Dale discuss this concept sparked loads of reflection. How many of us have felt guilty for moving on from a hobby, changing career paths, or discovering a new special interest? Perhaps recognising that you are a Neurodrifter offers a more positive way of viewing that journey—one that celebrates exploration rather than criticising it.

I also used the show as an opportunity to talk about Awesome Archie’s Connection Club, a programme that means a lot to us. Events like this are a great chance to raise awareness of the importance of connection, inclusion and support for neurodivergent mainstream primary school students. I had some really positive conversations with attendees and exhibitors about our programme, sharing how we’re helping to create a welcoming space where autistic and ADHD individuals can build friendships, feel understood and connect with others who share similar experiences. For more info check out our sister sight www.neurocreativemedia.co.uk

The Autism & ADHD Show continues to be one of the best places to connect with like-minded people, discover new ideas, and learn from those making a real difference in the neurodivergent community. From meaningful conversations with organisations like Sunshine Support to thought-provoking talks from speakers like Dale Pickles, the event reminded me once again of the strength, diversity, and creativity that exists within our community.

I left once again feeling informed, inspired, and proud to be part of a community that continues to challenge assumptions, share experiences, and create new ways of understanding ourselves.

Here’s to more conversations, more connections, and perhaps embracing our inner Neurodrifter along the way.

Sightseeing BABY!!!

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After spending the morning at the Autism & ADHD Show, We decided to make the most of our time in London and explore the city for the rest of the day.

We headed into central London and started with a visit to the M&M’s Store. It was incredibly bright, colourful, busy, and full of buzzy energy. Next, the LEGO Store, which was packed with incredible displays and loads to look at. Very cool!

London on a weekend is always bustling, and travelling on the Underground between destinations added to the sensory experience. I’ll be honest—at times it was overwhelming. The crowds, noise, constant movement, and navigating unfamiliar places took a lot of energy. As an autistic person, days like this can be really challenging, and there were definitely moments when I felt the strain of it all.

But alongside that feeling was something else: pride.

I was really proud of myself and our daughter for doing it. Proud that I pushed outside my comfort zone, managed the busy environment, and kept going even when it felt like a lot. It’s easy to focus on the difficult moments, but it’s important to recognise the achievements too.

Ian , Daisy and I walked miles across the city, taking in the sights and enjoying the atmosphere. One highlight was visiting Platform 9¾, Daisy is a HUGE Harry Potter fan.

We decided to go to Chinatown for dinner to enjoy some authentic asian yumminess and after such a busy day, it was the perfect way to slow down! We enjoyed some seriously good food, and reflected on everything we’d seen and done.

By the time we walked miles back to our hotel, my feet and hips were definitely feeling the effects of all the walking, but it was worth every step. It had been a day filled with learning, exploration, challenges, and gratitide.

Bring on the TES SEND show in October where we do it all again 🙂

For decades I thought I was just naturally untidy. I was the person who always seemed to be running late, forgetting appointments, misplacing important documents, and constantly feeling like I was trying to catch up with everyone else.

No matter how hard I tried, organisation never seemed to come naturally to me. I’d start new routines on a Monday, and promise myself that this time things would be different.

Usually, by Thursday, I’d be overwhelmed with the effort, burnt out and completely abandoned the new routine altogether.

When I later learned more about ADHD and executive functioning, so many pieces of the puzzle suddenly fell into place.

One of the lesser-known aspects of ADHD is the impact it can have on executive function. Executive functions are the mental skills that help us plan, organise, prioritise, manage time, remember tasks, and follow through on goals. They are the behind-the-scenes processes that help us navigate daily life.

For many people with ADHD, these skills don’t come automatically, thats certainly true for me . It isn’t about laziness, a lack of desire or not caring enough. In fact, many of us care deeply. The challenge is often bridging the gap between intention and action. I always had good intentions.

I genuinely wanted a tidy home. I wanted to remember birthdays. I wanted to arrive early. I wanted to stay on top of paperwork, meal planning, household tasks, and work deadlines. But, the problem wasn’t knowing what needed to be done. The problem was keeping track of it all consistently.

Like many people with ADHD, my brain seemed to hold information loosely. A task could feel incredibly important one moment and completely disappear from my mind the next. If something wasn’t directly in front of me, it often stopped existing altogether.

This created a cycle of stress. I would forget something….again, feel frustrated with myself, try harder, become overwhelmed, and then repeat the whole process again.

Over time, though, I realised something important.

I didn’t need to become a different person. I didn’t need to force myself to be “naturally” organised. I simply needed systems that worked WITH my brain rather than against it.

That realisation changed everything.

Around twelve years ago, I started creating my own planning systems. Instead of trying to fit into planners designed for people who naturally remember everything, I began designing very crude but helpful tools just for me that supported me the way I actually think.

I had simple layouts on scraps of paper, visual reminders on “post its” stuck to the cupboards. Dumped thoughts into any old left over note pad. I just needed somewhere to capture the endless stream of thoughts, appointments, ideas, and tasks that seemed to bounce around my head all day.

Most importantly, I needed systems that felt realistic and helpful rather than perfect.

Little by little, those systems transformed my daily life.

Today, my home is organised. My appointments get remembered. My deadlines are managed. Of course, I still have ADHD moments—I’m a proud neurodivergent human after all—but the difference is that I no longer rely solely on memory or motivation. I rely on the systems I have created so they do the work for me.

Fast forward to now, what started as rather basic personal tools eventually became something I am super proud to share with others. That’s why I opened my Etsy store and began selling the (vastly new and improved) planners and organisational resources I had developed for myself.

Every planner I create comes from real-life experience. They’re designed by someone who understands what it’s like to stare at a growing to-do list and not know where to begin. They’re built for people who need structure without rigidity, guidance without overwhelm, and organisation that feels achievable. they are used by me, my family, my friends!

I know firsthand that getting organised isn’t about becoming perfect. It’s about reducing stress. It’s about creating a little more calm in your day. It’s about giving your future self a helping hand.

Whether you have ADHD, struggle with executive function, or simply find life a bit chaotic sometimes, having the right tools can make a remarkable difference.

The systems I use today aren’t complicated. In fact, their simplicity is exactly why they work. They help me keep track of the things my brain naturally struggles to hold onto, freeing up more energy for the things that matter most.

If you’ve ever felt like organisation just wasn’t “your thing,” I hope this serves as a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Sometimes the answer isn’t trying harder.

The answer is finding a system that works for you.

After twelve years of living with systems that support my ADHD brain, I can honestly say that organisation isn’t about perfection—it’s about creating tools that make everyday life easier.

And that is exactly what I hope my planners help others do too.

https://neurocreativemedia.etsy.com

We are EXTREMELY excited to finally share something we’ve been working ferociously hard towards for months now.

Neurocreative Media Digital Downloads is officially live on Etsy!

Over the years, Awesome Archie Non Profit has been the proud creator of hundreds of educational, creative, and wellbeing resources that I have personally developed and donated to multiple school, kids and families. Even one to the Salvation Army youth team!

These contributions have not only strengthened our ability to support children, families, and communities, but also inspired the creation of my own small business, Neurocreative Media back in October 2025.

Neurocreative Media specialises in designing innovative resources, creative content, and inclusive learning materials that help individuals, organisations, schools and communities thrive. While Awesome Archie operates as a non-profit organisation focused on direct community support, fundraising, and charitable initiatives, Neurocreative Media works from a social enterprise perspective, creating tools and resources that empower others to make a positive impact.

Together, they support the community from different angles—one through charitable action and one through creative innovation—but both share the same goal: improving lives, promoting inclusion, and creating opportunities for people to reach their full potential.

Born from our deeply rooted passion for supporting neurodivergent children, families, schools and organisations this new venture sits proudly alongside the work we do through both Awesome Archie and NCM!

Over the last few months, I have been beavering away behind the scene , creating digital, downloadable goodies designed to make everyday life a little easier, a lot more organised, and super empowering.

Our growing collection includes:

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And EVERY resource has been created with a huge amount of care, understanding, and lived experience at its heart, with most of our resources already being used by us personally , our families and our affiliated schools every day 🙂 All of the items we sell have been officially approved my Awesome Archie himself!

So Why Etsy?

Quite simply, because we want to significantly grow our reach! We are always trying to find ways of supporting the neurodivergent community and expansion is a MASSIVE part of that! Not to mention the fact that maybe one day this is a venture that Archie could take over and finally be able to access the right to work, like everyone should. The quiet creativity and working from home would be an ideal job for him one day… we hope!

Also, over the years we’ve seen firsthand how difficult it can be for families, carers, educators, and support workers to access affordable neurodiversity-friendly resources. Many useful tools come with a hefty price tag, creating unnecessary barriers for those who need them most.

My own unique combination of skills, extensive experience ( almost 2 decades) and multidisciplinary expertise enables me to deliver a level of creativity, insight, and quality that is difficult to find elsewhere. As a tiny business owner I personally manage every aspect of all my projects, from concept development and design through to delivery and evaluation. As a result, my daily rate reflects the depth of knowledge, flexibility, and value that I bring, and I have zero shame in that. However, I firmly believe that high-quality creative and educational resources should be accessible to everyone. That is why many of our services, resources, and support packages are offered at highly affordable rates, ensuring that individuals, community groups, schools, charities, and organisations can benefit regardless of budget. This balance allows us to remain sustainable while staying true to our commitment to inclusivity and community impact.

Accessibility has always been at the centre of everything we do.

That’s why our digital downloads are priced between 50p and £15, making them genuinely affordable and accessible to as many people as possible. We believe support shouldn’t be a luxury, and having access to helpful resources shouldn’t depend on your budget.

Why Now?

Because now, more than ever, our neurodivergent children need us to be loud, proud, and unapologetic in celebrating who they are.

There is still so much misunderstanding surrounding autism, ADHD, and other forms of neurodivergence. Too often, children are expected to fit into systems that weren’t designed with them in mind.

We want to help change that.

By creating practical, positive, and inclusive resources, we hope to support children in embracing their strengths, understanding their needs, and feeling seen, valued, and celebrated. Neurodivergent children do not need fixing. They need understanding, acceptance, and environments that allow them to thrive.

Every printable downloaded, every resource shared, and every conversation started helps build a world that is more inclusive and supportive for the next generation.

So, to everyone who has supported Awesome Archie or Neurocreative Media and our work so far—thank you. Your encouragement, feedback, and belief in what we do has helped make this next chapter possible.

We’re incredibly proud of Neurocreative Media Digital Downloads, and we’re even more excited about what’s still to come.

We can’t wait to continue creating resources that support, empower, and celebrate neurodivergent children and the amazing people who champion them every day.

Here’s to being loud. Here’s to being proud. Here’s to making support accessible for everyone.

Welcome to Neurocreative Media Digital Downloads on ETSY.

To can either click in the link below or enter via our official website

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

https://neurocreativemedia.etsy.com

Believe me when I say, I know from first hand experience that applying for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) can feel overwhelming for both families and schools. Many parents, including myself, go into the process already expecting a fight, while SENCOs often feel under pressure trying to balance evidence gathering, Local Authority expectations, and limited resources.

One of the most common questions we hear is:

“How can we reduce the chances of push back from the Local Authority?”

The reality is that no application can guarantee approval. However, after years of supporting families with their applications, we are seeing clear patterns in the applications that progress more smoothly — and they almost always come down to the quality, clarity, and consistency of the evidence provided.

So we decided that this week’s blog would share practical tips for both parents and SENCOs on how to strengthen EHCP applications and reduce unnecessary delays, challenges, and refusals.

Focus on Impact — Not Just Diagnosis

An EHCP is not allocated because a child has a diagnosis. Its so much more complex than that. An EHCP will only be allocated because their needs require provision that is additional to or different from, what is normally available in school.

This is where the problems of push back can start. If we dont provide evidence that clearly explains…

We will always be refused!

Instead, explain the impact and make it quantifiable.

For example:

😞 “Archie is autistic and struggles socially.”

😊 “Archie is unable to independently access unstructured social times, resulting in daily incidents of dysregulation, withdrawal, and missed learning following break times.”

This is clear and the impact is more measurable therefore producing a much stronger case.

Use Quantifiable Evidence Wherever Possible

Strong EHCP applications are ALWAYS measurable.

Local Authorities are more likely to push back if you use vague wording like “often struggles”, “finds it difficult” “needs support regularly” etc. We need to be assured in our requests

Instead, quantify the need:

This kind of measurable data creates evidence that is ( in our experience) way harder to dispute.

Show What Has Already Been Tried And Its Impact

One of the biggest reasons for push back is when an application does not demonstrate graduated response. Schools SHOULD clearly evidence the interventions already implemented, how long they were in place for, the level of support provided and the outcome of it all.

You would be amazed at the number of SENcos that miss this AND ITS NOT always their fault. They maybe new to the job, dont have enough allocated time or support from SLT etc. However, it then impacts the needs of the child and so I share this not to criticise but to support!

Parents can help by documenting bits to give to the SENco to support them with evidence. Because the key question the Local Authority often asks is:

“What has already been tried, and why is this not enough?”

And when they dont get a definitive answer to this, push back the becomes alot more likely.

The goal is not to “fight harder.” The goal is to build a clear, evidence-based picture that demonstrates why the child or young person cannot have their needs met through ordinarily available provision alone. How can that be successfully argued against?!

EHCP Evidence Gathering: Using the “So What?” Method

This is one of my favorite little golden nuggets of joy beause its SO handy!

When gathering evidence for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP), one of the biggest mistakes people make is describing a child’s difficulties without explaining the impact those difficulties actually have on daily life and education.

This is where the “So What?” method becomes incredibly powerful.

The purpose of EHCP evidence is not just to list needs — it is to clearly show why support is necessary and what happens when support is not in place.

What Is the “So What?” Method?

The “So What?” method means asking:

In short, instead of simply stating a need, you explain the measurable impact of that need.

For example:

😞 “Archie struggles with transitions.”

This tells us there is a difficulty — but not why it matters or how it impacts him or the class. This is saying the same thing but its much harder to argue with…

😊“Archie struggles with transitions between lessons, resulting in distress behaviours 3–4 times per day and requiring 15 minutes of adult support to regulate before learning can continue.”

Now the impact is clear, measurable, and much harder to dismiss. So often the evidence IS there, its just not documented correctly…believe me, I KNOW how annoying that is!!!

A useful formula to remeber is:

Need → So What? → Provision

For example:

“Without visual supports and adult preparation for transitions, Archie becomes overwhelmed, leading to class refusal on average 3 times per week. He requires a structured visual timetable and consistent adult support during transitions.”

This helps show why support is necessary and that it’s not optional.

Our Awesome Tip

If you are writing EHCP evidence, always ask yourself:

“If someone reading this knew nothing about my child, would they understand exactly how this difficulty affects their access to education and daily life?”

If the answer is no, keep asking “So what?” Because in our opinion, that is often where the strongest evidence is found.

@awesomearchie_

This is a question that we often get asked so I thought I’d answer it on here. How do you actually apply for an EHCP?? I’m hoping this video will break down the process a little bit for you and we want to wish you the best of luck .#autismawareness #echp #fypシ゚viral🖤tiktok #foryoupage❤️❤️ #viralvideos

♬ original sound – Awesome Archie -Autism/ADHD 🧠

First of all, an apology from us for how long it’s taken to get our latest blog written and shared. Yikes, it’s been a while 😲

Life, both home and work, has been incredibly busy behind the scenes lately, and while we always want to keep everyone updated, we never want to rush what we write. Every single person that takes the time to read our blogs, follow our journey, support our cause, or cheer Archie on means so much to us, and we think that deserves thoughtful content written from the heart. So, thanks for waiting 🤗

The good news is that it’s finally half term, which means things have slowed down just enough for me to finally take a breath, sit down with a cuppa, and catch up properly with all of you.

And what a few weeks it has been!

BBC Radio Solent and Awesome Archie’s Connection Club

One of our recent highlights was Archie and I being invited onto BBC Radio Solent to talk about our school programme, Awesome Archie’s Connection Club.

Awesome Archie Non Profit’s Awesome Archie’s Connection Club is a school-based program written my me and Arch, that is designed to help neurodivergent children build confidence, friendships, kindness, and meaningful social connections.

The programme focuses on creating inclusive spaces where children feel seen, valued, and supported — especially those who may struggle with confidence, loneliness, anxiety, or fitting in socially. Through fun activities, conversations, teamwork, and positive encouragement, the program helps children develop emotional wellbeing and stronger peer relationships.

Because it’s delivered in schools, the club can reach children in their everyday environment — helping build stronger classroom communities and encouraging children to support one another both inside and outside the sessions.

The programme also reflects Archie’s own journey and personality, using real experiences to inspire children and show that everyone deserves connection and acceptance.

It was such an incredible experience to be able to share the heart behind the project and talk about why creating connection, inclusion, and kindness in schools matters so much to us. Watching Archie speak so confidently and proudly about the work we do was one of those “mum moments” I’ll never forget.

A huge thank you has to go to Josh the Host for making both Archie and I feel so welcome and relaxed from the moment we arrived. Sometimes media appearances can feel a little daunting, but Josh and the production team made the whole experience feel warm, genuine, and fun.

@awesomearchie_

A bit of a behind the scenes with Archie and I at the BBC. What an awesome day!#fypシ゚viral🖤tiktok #foryoupage❤️❤️ #autism #adhd #awesomearchiesconnectionclub @BBC

♬ sonido original – sin nombre

We left feeling incredibly grateful and even more passionate about continuing to grow Awesome Archie’s Connection Club and reaching more schools and children in the future. for more info on the program please visit our sister site www.neurocreativemedia.co.uk

A Dream Takes Flight

Another unforgettable moment recently was watching Dad finally achieve a lifelong ambition — flying in a Spitfire.

At the beautiful Compton Abbas Airfield, a dream many years in the making became reality. Seeing that iconic aircraft take to the skies was emotional enough, but seeing the excitement and pure joy afterwards made it even more special. Dad, at the ripe old age of 75 did a loop the loop and even flew the spitfire for 5 minutes…AWESOME!

It was such a teachable moment for the kids. Here we had proof that It’s never too late to try something new, to chase a dream, or set yourself a new goal. Life doesn’t come with a timeline, and some of the most meaningful moments happen when we finally decide to take that leap — no matter our age or stage in life. Watching Dad fulfil his lifelong ambition of flying in a Spitfire was a perfect reminder that dreams don’t expire. Whether it’s learning a new skill, starting a new adventure, or simply saying yes to something that scares you a little, there is always time to grow, challenge yourself, and create memories you’ll treasure forever.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1674673340119442

At Last, Time For A Little Pause

After such a busy and exciting term, we’re now taking a little well-earned break.

Not for meetings, events, school visits, interviews, or planning — just time to simply be a mum, enjoy family life, recharge, and soak up some precious moments together. ( Oh, and to tidy my house because let me tell you, it needs it!!)

I LOVE my job and I am so proud to do what I do but nothing fulfills me more than being a MUM 🙂

Thank you, as always, for continuing to support Awesome Archie. Your kindness, encouragement, and belief in what we do truly keeps us going.

We’ll be back soon with more adventures, more smiles, and more Awesome Archie updates. 💙

When your child is first diagnosed as autistic, it can really feel like the ground shifts beneath your feet. Even if you’ve known or suspected it for a while, hearing it be confirmed by a professional can bring a huge surge of emotions that don’t always make sense together.

For me as Archie’s mum I felt sheer relief of the conformation, after months of being gas lit and occasionally feeling like I had failed my son. He was only 3 yet I had felt like a lifetimes fight had been fought already. Yet for My husband there was fear, confusion and grief .

But, we both had endless hope—all of these feelings can all show up at once and still pop up even though he’s an adult now!

It’s completely “normal” for the whole family to have what we call a “wobble” during this time and in periods in life later too. You’re not just processing information; you’re adjusting expectations, rethinking your whole future, and figuring out how best to support your child into adulthood.

That’s a lot for anyone to carry, and it rarely settles overnight.

One of the most helpful perspectives we have found comes from neuroaffirming parenting approaches, our parenting style. The core idea is simple but powerful: your child doesn’t need to be “fixed”—they need to be understood, supported, and accepted as they are.

It’s also worth remembering that your child hasn’t suddenly changed because of a diagnosis—they’ve always been exactly who they are.

Autism isn’t something that appeared overnight; it’s simply a way your child’s brain has always worked. What the diagnosis gives you is language, understanding, and a clearer lens through which to see them. Instead of guessing or questioning, you now have a framework that can guide support, open doors to resources, and help others understand your child better too. For many families, having a name for it brings a sense of clarity and even relief—it shifts the focus from “what’s wrong?” to “what do they need?” and that’s a powerful, positive place to begin.

That said, true acceptance isn’t a switch you flip. It’s something that slowly grows over time and with effort and for us, therapy. You can understand the philosophy intellectually and still feel a sense of loss or uncertainty emotionally. That doesn’t make you a bad parent; it makes you a human one. Acceptance is a process, not a deadline.

It’s also important to say out loud that it’s okay to have sad days. I HAVE THEM REGUALLY! Even years down the line, those feelings resurface. You might find yourself wondering about the “what ifs” or feeling the weight of advocacy, appointments, or simply the extra layers of planning that your child might need. Having those moments doesn’t mean you don’t love or accept your child fully. It means you’re navigating a lifelong journey that includes both joy and challenge. Many parents, even 10 or 18 years in, will tell you that those waves still come and go.

What helps is giving yourself permission to feel the bad moments but without getting stuck there. Talk to someone you trust, whether that’s a partner, friend, or another parent who’s been through it. Connecting with others who understand can be incredibly grounding, especially when everything feels uncertain. That’s exactly why we are working hard to create the Awesome Archie community online! Try to focus on your child as an individual rather than a medical label ( although its important to own it)—what they enjoy, how they communicate, what makes them feel safe and happy. That shift in focus can gently move you from fear toward curiosity and connection.

It can also make a big difference to take things one step at a time. You don’t need to figure out your child’s entire future right now. Start with what helps today—routines, environments, and small adjustments that reduce the stresses for both of you. Learn about sensory needs, communication styles, and what regulation looks like for your child. And just as importantly, take care of yourself. Rest when you can, step away when you need to, and recognise that you’re doing something emotionally demanding.

ITS OK TO FEEL OVERWHELMED!!!!

Over time, we have found that what once felt overwhelming became more familiar, even empowering. We began to see our child more clearly, beyond the diagnosis, and buillt a life that works for OUR family.

The wobble doesn’t mean things are falling apart—it often means things are shifting into something new. And while that shift can be uncomfortable, it can also lead to a deeper kind of understanding, connection, and acceptance than you might have imagined at the start.

Firstly, I want to say sorry its been a minute! Over the past few weeks, things have been incredibly busy behind the scenes. We’ve been putting a lot of time, energy, and care into promoting Awesome Archie’s connection Club, supporting our families and schools, and making sure everything we offer and share continues to be meaningful, welcoming, and valuable for everyone involved.

Because of this, our usual updates and blog posts have taken a bit of a back seat but, here we are with some updates 🙂

The awesome news is that all this activity means that exciting things are happening, and we can’t wait to share more with you very soon. Thankyou for your patience, your support, and for being such an important part of the Awesome Archie community—it really does mean a lot.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1453873796051777

So, here we go…

Herbie’s London Adventure – Stranger Things and Banksy

We’re really proud to share a very special milestone for our Herbie, who recently enjoyed an unforgettable trip to London as a reward for completing his MOCs. This was no small accomplishment—Herbie worked incredibly hard to achieve this, especially as he navigates the additional challenges that come with being autistic an learning in mainstream. His determination and resilience has been so inspirational and I am a very proud mum.

The trip itself was packed with amazing experiences. Herbie got to see a real-life Banksy artwork in situ, take in the incredible views from the London Eye, and enjoy the theatre production of Stranger Things—all moments that made the reward even more meaningful.

A huge thank you goes to his dad for accompanying him and supporting him every step of the way. Having that encouragement and reassurance made such a difference and helped turn this trip into a positive and memorable experience.

This wasn’t just a trip—it was a celebration of perseverance, courage, and achievement. We couldn’t be prouder of him.

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The Beautiful Chaos of Everyday Life

Being a mum of four is busy in itself—but when two of your children are autistic, the day-to-day takes on a whole new level of planning, patience, and perseverance.

Most mornings start before the sun feels fully up. There are school runs to coordinate, routines to stick to, and the careful balancing act of making sure everyone is regulated, prepared, and supported for the day ahead. What might seem like a simple task—getting dressed, eating breakfast, leaving the house—can require extra time, understanding, and flexibility. Some mornings it is total carnage!

Then there’s the rest of life ticking along in the background. Meal prep, laundry, appointments, and somewhere in between, me trying to run a business and carve out a mini moment to breathe. It can feel relentless at times, like you’re constantly switching roles without ever fully stepping out of any of them. And yes—it’s hard. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too. The invisible load of thinking ahead, managing triggers, advocating, and making sure each child gets what they need can be exhausting.

But within all of that, there are positives—real, meaningful ones.

There’s a deep sense of connection that comes from truly understanding your children and seeing the world through their eyes. There are the small wins that feel huge (like Herbs in London) —moments of progress, confidence, or calm that others might overlook but mean everything to you. There’s resilience being built every single day, not just in your children, but in you too.

You learn to celebrate differently. You learn patience in a way you never expected. And you begin to see that success doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s version—it can be quieter, more personal, but just as powerful. It’s AWESOME!

It’s not in anyway a perfect balance. Some days feel like I am living in survival mode. But even on those days, there is love, there is growth, and there is a strength you didn’t know you had.

And sometimes, that’s more than enough.

https://www.facebook.com/reel/968199308927929

There’s a version of parenting that most people recognise. The age old TV family. It’s busy, loud, sometimes chaotic—but familiar. 18 summer…all that jazz!

Then there’s the version that happens maybe more quietly, behind closed doors, where the real work isn’t just what you do, but what you are constantly holding in your overwhelmed mind.

This is MY parenting journey and has been for the last 18 years.

Caring for my two autistic children (with another two beautiful kids too) isn’t just a physical role. It’s a relentless, invisible mental load that NEVER switches off. It’s there when you wake up, when you try to rest, and even when things look “fine” from the outside.

The mental load starts before the day even begins. You’re already mapping it out:
What will they eat? What can they eat today? Will there be traffic? Will the WIFI drop out?
Are their clothes going to feel okay, or will that trigger distress?
What’s happening at school / specialist sixth form—are there changes, supply staff, unexpected events?
How do you prepare them without overwhelming them?

Every small decision carries weight because every small thing matters massively.

Getting ready for school isn’t just getting ready. It’s negotiation without demand placement, emotional regulation, sensory management, and contingency planning all at once. It’s knowing that a simple request—“put your shoes on”—might not be simple at all. It might be the moment that everything tips into total chaos.

You learn to read signals that others don’t see. A tone shift. A hesitation. The way they move through a room. You’re constantly scanning, adjusting, preventing. Not because you want to control everything—but because you’re trying to hold things together because you know the result if things go wrong.

And you carry it all in your head, alone, relentlessly and with no one else feeling what you feel and when.

Then there’s the hospital appointments. Forms. Waiting lists. Referrals. Meetings where you have to explain your child from scratch, over and over again. Dealing with inconsiderate people and avoiding lashing out at someone who has insulted your child for just being them!

Translating their needs into words professionals and family members will understand. Fighting to be heard, but doing it calmly, constructively, persistently—because that’s what gets results.

At the same time, you’re managing the emotional world of two children who experience things VERY differently. Supporting them through overwhelm, anxiety, sensory discomfort, and moments they can’t yet make sense of themselves.

There’s no clocking out for me and I’m neurodivergent too! I AM ALWAYS EXHAUSTED!

Even in the quieter moments, your brain doesn’t rest. You’re replaying the day. What worked? What didn’t? What could I do differently tomorrow? You’re planning three steps ahead because you’ve learned that being unprepared has a cost.

And then there’s the guilt. The constant questioning. Did I push too much? Did I not push enough? Am I meeting ALL of my childrens needs equally? Am I missing something?

It’s heavy—because you LOVE your children. Deeply, fiercely, relentlessly.

Now for me, what makes it harder is how invisible it all is. From the outside, people might see a parent managing, coping, even doing well. They don’t see the mental tabs open all day long. They don’t feel the weight of holding two entirely different sets of needs, triggers, and supports in your mind at all times.

They don’t see how tired you are. How much you cry. How scared for the future you are.

But within that weight, there is also something else.

A depth of understanding. An ability to adapt. A level of advocacy most people never have to develop.

You become fluent in your children—their cues, their needs, their ways of experiencing the world. You learn to celebrate things others might overlook. A smoother morning. A moment of calm. A small win that took enormous effort to achieve.

The invisible weight doesn’t go away. But you carry it because they matter. And while the world may not always see it, that doesn’t make it any less real.

However, being a parent to all of our children has taught me a kind of strength I didn’t know I had. I choose every day to stay positive, not because it’s easy, but because my children deserve a parent who sees their potential before their challenges.

I prioritise my wellbeing and theirs above everything else, even when others don’t understand or agree, because I know that showing up fully for them matters more than meeting outside expectations.

There are days I feel completely exhausted, stretched thin in ways few people see, yet that exhaustion sits alongside a deep resilience. I keep going, advocating, learning, and pushing forward—not perfectly, but relentlessly—because my children deserve a voice, support, and a world that makes space for who they are.

If you’re living this too—you’re not alone. I SEE YOUR INVISIBLE LOAD!

Celebrating neurodiversity this Autism Awareness, Acceptance & Celebration Month!

Today feels like the perfect moment to share something we’ve been co- producing with enormous care, creativity, lived experience and a whole lot of heart…

We are SO excited to officially launch our brand-new school program: Awesome Archies Connection Club!

And what better time to announce it than during Autism Awareness, Acceptance and Celebration Month — a time dedicated not just to understanding neurodivergence, but truly embracing and celebrating it.

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So… what is Awesome Archies Connection Club?

Awesome Archies Connection Club is a lunchtime, school-based program designed to support neurodivergent pupils in building meaningful connections, developing confidence, and feeling genuinely understood.

It’s about creating a safe, inclusive space where pupils can:

Through structured yet flexible sessions, the club blends creativity, communication activities, and connection-building experiences that meet pupils exactly where they are.

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Tried, tested… and truly AWESOME

This isn’t just a brand-new idea — it’s a program that’s already been making a huge difference.

We’ve been trialling Awesome Archies Connection Club over the past school year, and the results have been incredible:

The feedback from both staff and pupils?
Let’s just say the word “awesome” came up a lot… 😊

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Why it matters for neurodivergent pupils

Traditional schoolplaytimes don’t always meet the needs of neurodivergent pupils — especially when it comes to social connection and emotional expression.

That’s where Awesome Archies Connection Club makes a real difference.

It supports neurodivergent pupils by:

Because every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and connected — exactly as they are.

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More than a program — it’s a celebration

Awesome Archies Connection Club isn’t just about support… it’s about celebration.

Celebrating:

Because neurodiversity isn’t something to be hidden — it’s something to be embraced.

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So… Ready to bring Awesome Archies Connection Club to your school/ Club /Organisation?

We’re so proud of what this program has become, and we can’t wait to see it make an impact in even more schools. If you’re looking to create a more inclusive, supportive environment for your pupils, Awesome Archies Connection Club is ready for you.

Available now via the Neurocreative Media website ⬇⬇⬇⬇⬇⬇

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

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This Autism Awareness Month, let’s move beyond awareness.

Let’s build understanding.
Let’s create spaces that work for all minds.
Let’s celebrate every child’s way of being.

And most importantly…
Let’s help every pupil feel like they truly belong. 💛

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Welcome to Awesome Archies Connection Club — where connection is built, confidence grows, and every mind matters.

If you, like me, are raising a neurodivergent child, then you will have had a moment ( or a few) many parents know all too well. You’re in the supermarket, a café, a playground, or the school gates. Your child might be overwhelmed, stimming, moving differently, talking loudly, or struggling with something that other kids seem to handle easily. And then you feel it!

The looks. The whispers. The pause in someone’s conversation. HORRID!

Whether anyone actually says anything or not, you suddenly feel like you’re being watched, Judged and evaluated. You might find yourself thinking:

What do they think of my child?
Do they think I’m a bad parent?
Do they think my child is just naughty?

And in that moment, it can feel incredibly uncomfortable, sometimes embarrassing and always exhausting. But here’s something super important for you to remember:

Your child’s right to exist freely in the world should ALWAYS matter more than a stranger’s opinion.

I know its easier said than done so I thought I’d share some psychological reasons as to why so many people seem to struggle with this and explore why we care so much about public perception—and how we can start letting it go. We need to , FOR OUR KIDS!

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Why Do We Care So Much About What Strangers Think?

Many parents feel guilty for worrying about public opinion, but it’s actually a very human response. There are deep emotional reasons behind it. Firstly, we carry our own childhood experiences. For you, raising a neurodivergent child may brings up memories of your own childhood.

Maybe you were told you were:

Maybe you were misunderstood by teachers or criticised by adults around you. If you grew up feeling judged or rejected, it can create a strong desire to avoid that same feeling as an adult. So when someone looks disapprovingly at your child, it can trigger something deeper. Suddenly it’s not just about the moment happening now — it’s about old feelings of being criticised, misunderstood, or feeling not good enough yourself.

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Modern parenting also comes with a huge amount of unwanted and unneeded public scrutiny.

People often assume that a child’s behaviour is a direct reflection of their parenting. So if a child struggles in public, the immediate assumption from outsiders can be:

“That child needs discipline.” “That parent can’t control their child.” “They should be stricter.”

What people rarely consider is that behaviour comes from communication, overwhelm, sensory processing, anxiety, or neurodivergence. None of which are your child’s or your fault! But when society pushes the idea that “good parents raise well-behaved children,” it’s easy to internalise that pressure.

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Often I think worrying about public opinion actually comes from love. Parents worry that if their child stands out, they might face bullying, exclusion, misunderstanding and unfair labels so you sometimes try to minimise children in public spaces.

Years ago I did it myself, I asked our child to stop stimming, sit still, stay quiet, or behave in ways that feel more socially acceptable. PLEASE DON’T, I REGRET IT ,THEY DON’T DESERVE IT, THEY ARE AWESOME AS THEY ARE!

The sad truth is that many neurodivergent children spend huge parts of their day already adapting themselves to try to fit into a world designed for neurotypical people. They deserve spaces where they can simply be themselves without shame or masking and thats our job as parents to provide that! If we seemed ashamed of them, they will feel that, then they have NOWHERE to just be them.

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Parenting Can Shake Our Confidence

Parenting a neurodivergent child often involves navigating systems that don’t always understand them.

Parents may face teachers questioning their parenting, professionals dismissing concerns, family members offering unhelpful or inappropriate advice, other parents making assumptions etc etc.

Over time, these experiences slowly chip away at our confidence and when our confidence feels fragile, the opinions of strangers can suddenly feel much bigger than they actually are.

When we as parents feel constantly worried about how others seeour child, it can change how we as families move through the world.

You might find yourself avoiding busy places, leaving situations early, apologising constantly. But neurodivergent children deserve to experience the world too.

When we slowly release the pressure of public approval, it creates more space for children to grow confidently.

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How to Stop Letting Public Opinion Control You?

This is a MASSIVE question but here we go 🙂

Firstly, accept that changing your mindset doesn’t happen overnight. But small shifts can make a big difference. Reframe in your mind your childs ” naughtiness” and see it for what it is … COMMUNICATION. They are trying to tell you something so listen.

Remember the stranger staring at your child in the queue knows absolutely nothing about your life. They don’t know your child’s neurological profile, the challenges they face daily, the effort it took just to leave the house, the progress your child has made, the support strategies you already use etc.

Their opinion is based on a few seconds of observation, not real understanding and reminding yourself that makes it far less valuable than it might feel in the moment. THEY DONT MATTER, YOUR CHILD DOES!

When difficult moments happen in public, try asking yourself one simple question:

Who needs my attention more right now — my child or the people watching?

Your child needs support, understanding, and reassurance. The public simply happens to be nearby.

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Find Other Parents And Groups Who Understand….like us!

One of the most powerful ways to reduce shame is connection. Thats literally why we do what we do. When you talk to other parents raising neurodivergent children, you quickly realise that many of the experiences you’ve had are shared. Suddenly the things that once felt embarrassing start to feel normal. Community can replace shame with understanding.

But Here’s The Harsh Truth..

There will always be people with opinions. But those opinions do not define your child, your parenting, or your family. When you feel the weight of public judgment creeping in, remember this:

The opinions of strangers should always matter less than your child being free to be themselves.

Because one day your child won’t remember the looks from strangers but they will remember whether they were accepted exactly as they are by their parent!