How we support parents/carers
Adapt to Learn has worked together with parents/carers of children with autism and social communication needs for many years. We have experience working with children of all ages and stages, from pre-verbal children to articulate teenagers. We are able to offer parents/carers one to one meetings where they will have an opportunity to discuss any concerns and share their aspirations.
Children with SEND may lack the skills to communicate effectively and at times resort to other methods to ensure their needs are met. This can impact on family life. Together, we can look at behaviour and it's possible underlying causes, solve problems and move forward using a non-judgemental and positive approach.
Understanding feelings and emotions can be very complex for some children and can be an underlying cause of anxiety. We can offer advice and practical strategies to promote and encourage self-regulation.
Adapt to Learn offers parents/carers one-to-one meetings where they can discuss any concerns, problem-solve and look at ways to move forward with positivity. We can offer practical advice and strategies where appropriate.
Adapt to Learn runs a parent programme called Small Change, Big Difference. This aims to empower parents by exploring a wide range of topics around autism and SEND, such as understanding autism, sensory differences, anxiety and resilience and sharing practical strategies to help. Small Change, Big Difference is a parent programme commissioned by local authority SEND departments, schools or local charities. Contact us to find out more.
"Feedback from parents who have been to Adapt to Learn's parent workshop have found these so useful and have recommended them to others.
Melanie and Tracy have such a lot of knowledge and background in autism and this is invaluable."
SENDCo Primary School, Sutton 2024
Tip 1. Offer a routine
Routines are important and can help children to accept the unpredictable! Use photos, drawings, bullet points or post-it notes to help.
Tip 2. Stress less
Daily life can sometimes be overwhelming! Try asking less questions, provide a quiet space and allow time for them to just ‘be’.
Tip 3. Stay positive
When you and your child are having a bad day, try to think of one or two positives during the day, no matter how small they are! Keep an achievement diary.
Tip 4. Sleep routine
It is important to create a calm, relaxing routine around bedtime. Using a checklist, soft music or white noise and blackout curtains can help.
“Thank you so much for helping with his worries and communication, it’s so lovely to see him more confident and able to express his needs/worries, and I know he's much happier and more relaxed as a result.”
Parent, Sutton.
Tip 5. Choose your battles!
Decide which battles are really vital. The important ones involve safety and health. Some others you have to let slip!