Here I show a few examples of when, why and how to use puppets to support those with SEND

Here I go through the spreadsheet for free-write analysis, sharing my screen and talking you through. Email me for a free copy of the spreadsheet. Please acknowledge me when sharing this.

Discussing my doctoral research on Ofsted and ISI looking at the damning judgementalsim of Ofsted and how this can be changed so that we don't get another Ruth Perry.

This book - The Wandering Lamb by Tom Delahunt - is a must for all teachers and SENDCOs. It supports us to celebrate being different. It's heart-warming and touches the soul. 

Here I discuss some of changes and my views, in particular about  the proposed changes from NASENCO Masters qualification for SENCOs to NPQs. I feel that the NPQs would be great for teachers and TAs to develop their understanding and the in-class support, but not as a replacement for the NASENCO award.

This is another video that features Rosie. She has produced this wonderful book - Safety Garden. The focus is autism and support. Please forgive any inaccurate vocabulary when discussing trans and gender fluidity matters - my ignorance, please educate.

My latest puppet, bought from Wonderland Somewhere (find them on Facebook), is one used for support a range of needs, from hearing impaired to speech, language and communication needs. This is demonstrated in this short video.

Following an interview with Claire Riley for Teachers Podcast, I have been asked about my analysis of free-writing as a way to get meaningful data to support our children. It's all explained here. If you're interested in the template download one for free (resources button).

The Arts, in all forms, can support all children, especially those with SEND. As the Arts are continually squeezed from the curriculum, I explore how instead they should be embraced and their value celebrated.

Often people have more than one area of SEND. Support strategies to help people with a range of 'labels', looking more at the specific needs. One label could mean different things.

Inspired by the Paralympics, the importance of having high expectations and believing in our students is discussed here. The front picture is another example of Rosie Mackman's amazing artwork.

SEND strategies can make all the difference to a child's learning. Use of a laptop, rest breaks, fidgets and more are discussed here.

We need to provide the support and strategies that will enable our children with SEND to flourish. Given that support it is amazing what can be achieved. Rosie Mackman is an exceptional example of that.

As lockdown starts to ease, this considers how some people's anxieties may come to the fore and offers some supporting strategies.

This addresses the importance of what we tell our children. If we return to school with our children believing they are a lost generation, that is how they will see themselves. We have a responsibility to see the positives and change the narrative if they are to believe in themselves.

This is an introduction to auditory processing disorder, explaining some of the issues and some ways to support. It's an underdiagnosed area of SEND

Discussing 'Oops' by Hywel Roberts. A truly inspirational book that will re-energise teachers. Should be on the reading list for all would-be and practising teachers.

This video looks at behaviour, reminding us to look beyond the behaviour itself to understand the cause and the child.

Sharing ideas for teachers and parents to engage children learning at home - important during this lockdown. The @whatonearthbook resources are discussed, as well as ideas for projects that may give you and your child a break from online learning.

Extending much of the thinking around pupil voice, this looks at lived experiences and pupils having a peer advocate with them in key meetings.

We need to believe in our children if they are to overcome the challenges they face.

Discussing bullying and  the use of puppets to help pupils to discuss any concerns. The important of 'follow-through' is highlighted.

Remembering Fil Came who gave so much to SEND, I discuss the pros and cons of SEND labels, ensuring the child remains at the heart of what we do.

Sensory needs and strategies to support them are explained. Reference made to Born Anxious - label free clothing - and to Kathy Hoopmann's books

This video discusses my own dyslexia, with reference to the book 'The Illustrated Guide to Dyslexia and its Amazing People.

In a busy school, especially it can be easy to miss the signs that a child might have SEND. There are signs that we can look out for.

This clip is from Rachel Winder: - Tik Tok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZM8cU5s7M/; @Auticulate

She has kindly given permission to share. Rachel, using sign as well as speaking, explains why Autism is not a disorder and emphasises the positives. A must to view.