I try to be child-led and sensitive to what my own kids need in any given moment, considering both the long-term view required of the adult in the relationship, as well as the short-term view, remembering the intensity of hard moments when young myself. This always comes up against special events at school, when I know there are reasons to be involved but as always my main priority is my kids' mental health and ability to trust the adults around them to listen to what they need. I deeply believe this is the way to build bravery and help them try new things at a pace that they feel in control of. 

I don't think that kids who struggle with change or sensory differences should miss out on potentially fun events, I also don't think they should be forced to take part in a way that doesn't feel safe to them. It is not a good lesson to force them to do something in order to make an adult happy.

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I'm thrilled to share ⭐️ The Star System ⭐️ with you, a completely free resource, which aims to provide a way for primary schools to meet both the present and future needs of children in anxious moments, for example during the lead up to special events such as Christmas plays and sports days. 

I’ve created it in collaboration with Becca Hutchinson, the experienced occupational therapist behind Peak Potential OT, and my good friend. 

We welcome all feedback, the document has had feedback from Senior Leadership Team members in schools, deputy and head teachers, SENCOs and other specialists in education and will be updated whenever we think we can improve it (I will add version markers at the bottom of any updates). We truly hope you find it useful, and share it far and wide for use in all and any settings. 

Education professionals - please use this, and feel free to contact us any time with queries or suggestions.

Parents and carers - please give this to your children's school/nursery/club.

Click here to download most up-to-date full PDF document of 'The Star System'.

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