Support with school attendance & anxiety
Challenges within the school environment for Autistic / ADHD children
For many neurodivergent young people, being in environments that are not tailored to our needs (e.g. sensory processing difficulties, social issues and difficulties with attention / concentration), can trigger strong emotions and reactions. Sometimes these reactions are held inside and, for others, these might be expressed in ways that are difficult for others to manage. Whilst therapeutic support to help a young person reflect and develop strategies can be helpful, it is often necessary to work with the system around the child. For example, if school is triggering strong feelings and reactions in the child, then some accommodation and adjustments in school, can reduce their distress and help them feel safe and happy. Whilst working with yourself and / or your child, if we feel that such adjustments may be needed in school, we will discuss this with you and can offer support and liaison with schools. Also, if you feel this support is needed, please discuss this with us.
Anxiety about attending school & school "avoidance"
Some children find the school environment overwhelming. The sensory overload, social & academic demands, and pressure to conform to rules, can cause high levels of anxiety. This sometimes results in avoidance and difficulties with attending school. This is now being known as "Emotional Based School Non-Attendance" (EBSNA) or "Emotional Based School Avoidance" (EBSA). Parents can often feel under a lot of pressure to get their child into school at any cost, but often feel unsupported in the process. It can be hard to know where to turn and support for these issues can feel very scarce.
We offer support regarding EBSNA / EBSA and will work with your child, you as a family and school to understand your child's needs and consider what support is needed to help the school environment feel more safe for your child, so that they can thrive.
Advice, support & training for schools on Autism & ADHD
We provide training & consultation for schools and other settings on the more hidden presentations of Autism and ADHD. This can help school staff understand the varied and, sometimes, subtle needs of children whose needs are more "masked".
If you are interested in this and would like to find out more please contact us.