There’s something quite awsome about switching off from the everyday and stepping onto a ship where, for a whole week, your biggest decision is whether to grab another coffee, eat yet another ice cream or head out onto your balcony to watch the sea.

That’s exactly what we did as we set sail on P&O’s Arvia for a week of much needed family time, visiting Bilbao, La Coruña, Vigo and Cherbourg. After months of hard work, super long hours, school, appointments, content creation and the general chaos that comes with family life, it was exactly what we needed. We were all more than ready!

As parents, life often feels like we’re running in different directions. Between work commitments, family/ caring responsibilities and everything else that fills the calendar, quality time can sometimes become something you have to schedule rather than something that just happens.

This week gave us that awesome time back.

Seven Sunrises. Seven Sunsets.

One of my favourite parts of the cruise was something that didn’t cost a penny.

Every morning we’d wake up to a completely different view. Some mornings we’d head out onto the balcony in our PJs, coffee in hand, watching the sun slowly climb above the horizon. Other mornings we’d catch glimpses of sleepy fishing boats or distant coastlines appearing through the morning mist. Then, every evening, we’d do it all again.

Seven sunsets.

Each Sunset and sunrise is completely different from the last. Some painted the sky orange and pink. Others disappeared behind “toy story”clouds, turning the whole ocean into shimmering gold. It’s funny how something so simple can make you slow down and take a breath.

At home, sunsets happen while we’re cooking dinner, answering emails or reminding someone to brush their teeth. On board, we actually stopped to watch them. Every single one.

We are that gaming family!

The Arvia has incredible entertainment, fantastic shows and loads to do but truthfully, some of our favourite memories happened around a table in the Atrium with a pack of cards.

We spent hours playing card games together, no phones,no rushing for the next meeting, no distractions. Just laughing, being ridiculously competitive, making up silly rules halfway through and just enjoying each other’s company.

As parents, those uninterrupted hours together are priceless because we so rarely have them. My Husband works a 40 hour week minimum and I am caring for Arch, being a proud mum to our four kids, running a home all whilst trying to carve out my own career. Its BUSY! And when life is busy, it’s easy to be physically present but mentally somewhere else. This week gave us permission to just be together.

And honestly, I think we all needed it.

Seeing Europe One Port at a Time

One of the joys of cruising is waking up somewhere new every couple of days with zero effort!

Our first stop was Bilbao, a city that blends beautiful modern architecture with traditional Spanish charm.

Then came La Coruña, where the relaxed pace made it easy to simply enjoy exploring together. We didn’t feel pressured to tick off every attraction—we just enjoyed being there together.

Vigo brought another chance to stretch our legs and enjoy plenty of sunshine.

Finally, we arrived in Cherbourg, France, with its lovely waterfront, EPIC submarine tour and slower pace offering the perfect end to our itinerary before heading back home.

One of the things we love about cruising is that every destination gives you a little taste of somewhere new without the stress of constantly packing and unpacking.

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Cruising as a Neurodivergent Family

One of the questions we’re asked most online is: “Is cruising suitable for neurodivergent families?” For us, the answer continues to be yes…100% but, it takes thought and forward planning.

One thing that made getting ready for this cruise so much easier was using my own Cruise Planner digital download to organise everything from packing lists and medication schedules to dinner reservations and daily plans. It helped take the stress out of the preparation, meaning we could focus on enjoying our holiday from the moment we stepped onboard. If you’d like to get organised for your next cruise too, you can find my Cruise Planner in my Etsy store

Not every moment is perfect because no holiday ever is….nor is real family life, but having familiar surroundings every evening, predictable routines on board, plenty of quiet spaces when needed and the flexibility to do as much—or as little—as we wanted made a huge difference.

There was space to regulate . Space to recharge. Space to have downtime without feeling like we were missing out.

Every neurodivergent family is different, and everyone’s needs are unique, but experiences like this remind us why we love sharing honest content rather than polished highlights. Because the real moments matter.

Why We’re Sharing It All

This holiday wasn’t just about making memories for ourselves, It was also about creating content that we hope will help other neurodivergent families.

Throughout the week we filmed loads of real-life moments, behind-the-scenes experiences and honest reflections that we’ll be sharing over the coming weeks.

We’ll be posting our “Spend the Day With Me” (STDWM) videos, practical hints and tips, what worked well for us, the challenges we experienced and everything we wish we’d known before travelling so if you’re a neurodivergent family wondering whether cruising could work for you, we want to answer those questions honestly.

@awesomearchie_

spend the day with us as a neurodivergent family travelling to Spain and France on the arvia. This is the first part of our series supporting neurodivergent families to enjoy holidays and find the courage to take a leap into going abroad. #traveltips #neurodivergentfamily #autisticcreator #stdwm #autism @P&O Cruises

♬ Relaxed and chill lofi hip hop long version(1580488) – Koko ni studio

Not with picture-perfect travel brochures but with genuine lived experiences.

The good bits, tough bit, funny bits, unexpected bits and the little things that can make a big difference. If our experiences help just one family feel more confident about booking their first holiday, it’ll all have been worthwhile.

Coming Home Feeling Refreshed

Of course, like all good holidays, our week away eventually came to an end. We arrived home to overflowing washing baskets, suitcases waiting to be unpacked and the reality of everyday life creeping back in. But alongside the laundry, we’ve brought home something far more valuable than souvenirs.

We’ve returned feeling refreshed, reconnected and grateful for seven days of genuine family time filled with conversations, laughter and moments where nobody was constantly watching the clock. We watched seven beautiful sunrises and seven unforgettable sunsets, played countless card games, shared so many smiles and made memories that we’ll be talking about for years to come.

Sometimes you don’t realise just how much you need to slow down until life gives you the opportunity to do exactly that. Now it’s time to sort through the hundreds of photos and videos, share our adventures online and hopefully inspire and support other neurodivergent families by offering honest insights, practical tips and real-life experiences from our trip. Because every family deserves the chance to reconnect, and sometimes all it takes is a ship, the open sea and a week away from the everyday.

People often say that the hardest years of parenting are when your children are little. The sleepless nights, the endless worry, the meltdowns, the development milestones, the constant demands. But no one really prepares you for parenting adult children.

Because the worry doesn’t disappear, far from it—it just really changes.

As a proud neurodivergent mum, there will always be a part of me that sees my son as my baby, no matter how old he gets. My instinct is and will always be to protect him, to make sure he’s safe, to solve problems before they become overwhelming. But somewhere along the way, that role begins to shift. Instead of holding on tightly, you have to learn how to loosen your grip and trust that you’ve given them the tools they need.

And that is so much easier said than done.

For me, this journey is made even more complicated because I am an AuDHDer and live with anxiety. My brain naturally thinks about every possible outcome, every “what if,” every scenario where something could go wrong. It isn’t because I don’t trust my son, he’s incredible and I am so proud of him—it’s because my mind is wired to anticipate danger and prepare for it.

Finding the balance between being a caring mum and stepping back has been one of the biggest emotional challenges I’ve faced and I dont always get it right.

Our eldest son, Joshua, has a real love for solo travel. While a massive part of me feels incredibly anxious every time he heads off on another adventure, another part (a bigger part) of me is bursting with pride and sheer admiration. He’s so brave, independent, curious, and confident enough to explore the world on his own.

I admire that so much!!!

Every trip reminds us that he isn’t our little boy anymore. He’s his own person, creating memories, meeting people, and experiencing things I never could have imagined for him when I first held him in my arms two decades ago. I know, I dont look old enough 😉

Of course, that doesn’t stop me checking my phone a little too often or feeling like I can finally breathe again when I get a message saying he’s arrived safely or sent beautiful scenic pics of where he is.

After sharing this challenge on my Tik Tok channel it became clear from all the comments from lovely parents, that part of motherhood ever really leaves us.

What makes me even prouder is the person Joshua has become at home, not just abroad. He has been an incredible support in helping to support Archie . Caring isn’t always easy. It takes patience, compassion, understanding, and often putting someone else’s needs before your own.

Joshua has shown all of those qualities.

Watching the relationship between them has filled my heart more times than I can count. Seeing him step up without complaint, offering support and love, reminds me that although I still see my baby, he has grown into an amazing young man.

Sometimes I wonder whether I’m getting the balance right. Am I worrying too much? Am I holding on too tightly? Am I giving him enough space to become exactly who he’s meant to be? And the truth is, I don’t think that I’ll ever really know the answer to that complex balance.

I think many parents of adult children quietly wrestle with the same questions because parenting doesn’t end when they turn eighteen. It evolves. The love stays just as strong, but the job description changes. Instead of directing every step, you’re learning to cheer from the sidelines, or at least trying to! Instead of catching every fall, you’re trusting them to find their feet even when you can see the fall coming!

For someone with AuDHD and anxiety, that trust doesn’t come naturally every day. It takes a real conscious effort. It takes reminding myself that independence isn’t rejection. That needing me less doesn’t mean loving me less.

If anything, watching Joshua build his own life while still choosing to be there for our family makes me appreciate our relationship even more.

So, if you’re another parent finding it hard to let go, you’re not alone. Missing them, worrying about them, and wanting to protect them forever simply means you love them deeply.

The challenge is remembering that our job isn’t to keep them in the nest forever.

It’s to help them build wings strong enough to fly.

And even when they soar across the world, they’ll always know where home is.

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There are moments in life that quietly arrive without much Drama or fanfare. Moments when you realise that a chapter you’ve been writing for years has reached its natural conclusion and this week, I made the decision ( at the end of this academic year) to step away from my weekly volunteering in schools after 11 years.

Eleven years!!! Writing that down feels surreal.

What started as a way to give something back became a huge part of my life.

Every week, I’d walk through those school gates with a box of craft supplies, a plan (usually!), and the excitement of seeing what the kids and I would create. I’ve watched tiny Reception children grow into confident senior school pupils. I’ve met incredible teachers, wonderful staff, and had the privilege of being part of countless, wonderful school memories.

I’ve also worked for some absolute shockers too, but thats another story 😉

From art sessions, Awesome Archie’s connection Club and messy projects to assemblies, themed weeks, and everything in between, it’s been a joy.

But life has seasons.

Our family life is ever changing, and as Archie grows , so do his needs and right now I feel that my time needs to look a little different. As difficult as this decision has been, I know it’s the right one. I can no longer commit to donating one day every week, and that’s okay.

Over the last 5 years it has also been incredibly disheartening to spend hours creating and emailing FREE resources, supporting neurodivergent children, to literally hundreds of schools to realise that only the same small handful ever take a moment to even reply or acknowledge the work given to support them. Unsurprisingly that has meant that I have somewhat lost my love for the education sector 🙁

To those schools that HAVE used our free resources / had us for assemblies etc…. THANKYOU! x

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is recognise when it’s time to let go of something good to make space for what’s needed the most. Archie is becoming an adult, but obviously his needs don’t diminish, in many ways things get tougher. So his development, his life experiences and our family as a whole deserve more than I have had time to give .

While this chapter is closing, another is flourishing. NeuroCreative Media ( my small business) continues to slowly grow , and our Brand new Etsy store means these resources are still reaching the children who need them—just through a different path.

https://neurocreativemedia.etsy.com

We also will continue to support parents via our non profit as heaven knows , we all need the help!

I’m simply closing one chapter, not the whole book and looking back, I feel nothing but gratitude.

Thank you to every member of staff who welcomed me into their classrooms. Particularly Mr Croutear ( Head of the Priory School). Thank you to every child who proudly showed me their masterpiece, made me laugh, or reminded me why creativity and neuroaffirmation matters so much. Thank you for trusting me to be a small part of your school journey.

Eleven years is a long time. It’s become part of who I am and walking away feels emotional because it mattered. But endings aren’t always sad. Sometimes they’re simply a sign that life is moving forward.

So here’s to the next chapter. To new routines, new priorities, and making sure I’m where I’m needed most.

And to “those” school gates… thank you for 11 wonderful years.

End of an era. But not the end of the story.

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.

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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.

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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.

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