SNAs

Last week we looked at the new SNA guidelines and circular. To watch back, you can go to the SNA membership video inside the membership. 

This week, we are conscious that we are moving towards the end of the school year, and many families are beginning to hear about changes for September.

A new teacher.
A different classroom.
A new SNA.

While schools often view these changes as part of the normal rhythm of school life, our children can experience them very differently.

For many neurodivergent children, an SNA becomes much more than a support person.

They become a familiar face, a safe person and someone who understands their communication style, sensory needs, worries, strengths and routines. When that relationship changes, our children are often managing two things at once:

• Adjusting to someone new
• Saying goodbye to someone familiar who was really important to them

It is completely understandable if your child seems worried, emotional, resistant or unsettled when they hear about a change in support staff. One of the biggest mistakes we can make is rushing to reassure:

"Don't worry, it'll be fine."

Instead, it can help to acknowledge the reality of the change:

"That is a big change."
"I can understand why that feels strange."
"It takes time to get to know new people."

Validation helps children feel understood. Understanding creates safety.

Inside this week's Membership, we are taking a deeper look at supporting children through changes in school relationships, including practical questions to ask schools, transition supports that can help, and ways to build predictability before September.

Myself and our team are here to help.

You can join by the link below in the P.S., and talk to us on Thursday at 12:30 noon. 

Your Child and Adolescent Psychologist,

Lorraine Xx

P.S. In the Membership this week, our webinar will SNAs and supporting your child through change

Members, please login and go to your newsfeed to access this weeks deep dive on SNA support.

To join the Membership, click below:

 Neurodiversity Parenting Membership