Pooky’s Weekly Round-Up: Issue 109
Staff care, student voice, and a signal box smile
This week, I’ve been thinking about the quiet strength it takes to keep showing up-for our students, our teams, and ourselves. Not in a superhuman way (we’ve had quite enough of that narrative, thank you), but in the real, messy, human way: asking for help, celebrating small wins, and remembering that support should never be a solo project.
Inside this week’s round-up: a new slide set on staff wellbeing (permission to be a person: granted), practical scripts for autistic girls finding their voice, and a video rethinking homework for brains that don’t do just get it done. Plus a podcast on the words that shape a child’s world, a beautifully honest read about PDA, and a carousel on why masking is exhausting.
And for your weekly smile? A happy moment in a heritage railway signal box-because sometimes being curious with a friend leads you to unexpectedly nerdy places.
PRESENT: Staff Wellbeing
This new slide set is all about supporting staff as humans, not just job roles. It’s packed with practical, permission-giving strategies to help build a culture where people feel valued, connected, and cared for (without adding to anyone’s to-do list).
Inside: boundary-setting ideas, meaningful connection tools, CPD that actually motivates, and a gentle nudge to reconnect with your 'why'. Whether you're leading a team or just trying to keep your own cup from running dry, this one’s for you.
(To book me or to find out more about my talks and webinars, email the lovely Ellie - Ellie@speakingofbooks.co.uk )
DOWNLOAD: Self-Advocacy Scripts for Autistic Girls
Speaking up can be hard—especially when the world hasn’t always listened well. This resource offers practical, adaptable scripts to help autistic girls express their needs with more confidence and clarity. From asking for help to setting boundaries or taking a break, it’s all about making communication feel doable.
WATCH: Rethinking Homework for Neurodivergent Students
In this video, I share practical, empowering strategies to support neurodivergent students with homework and studying-because “just get it done” doesn’t cut it when executive function, overwhelm, or unclear expectations get in the way. We’ll look at setting goals, breaking down tasks, creating clarity, and building environments where students can thrive—not just survive—outside the classroom.
LISTEN: What Words Shape a Child’s World?
The words we use with children matter—more than we sometimes realise. In this Pooky Ponders episode, I explore five powerful messages every child needs to hear regularly to feel loved, safe, and valued. From expressing pride to saying a genuine sorry, these everyday phrases can make a lifelong difference. A gentle listen for parents, teachers, and anyone who wants to build deeper, more emotionally secure connections with the children in their care.
READ: The Family Experience of PDA
This beautifully illustrated guide by Eliza Fricker offers a heartfelt and humorous look into life with a child who has Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Through relatable anecdotes and charming illustrations, Fricker provides practical strategies and compassionate insights for parents navigating the complexities of PDA. It's a comforting read that validates the challenges and celebrates the unique joys of parenting a PDA child. Whether you're new to PDA or seeking deeper understanding, this book is a valuable companion.
EXPLAINER: Neurodivergent Masking
My latest explainer breaks down what masking is, why so many neurodivergent people (especially from a young age) learn to do it, and the toll it can take over time. From smiling through overwhelm to hiding stims or copying how others talk—it’s exhausting trying to blend in.
If you’ve ever masked, or supported someone who does, I hope this post helps you feel seen. Let’s create spaces where no one has to hide to belong.
SMILE: Special Interests Can Be Catching…
Here’s me looking very happy in a heritage railway signal box. If you’ve ever heard me talk about suspending disinterest and truly listening when an autistic child shares their special interest… consider this a word of warning…
A while back, I did exactly that with my best friend—and now I spend my weekends cycling to different heritage railways and trying to charm my way into signal boxes. Turns out, special interests aren’t just contagious… they’re brilliant fun too.
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Thanks, as always, for reading.
Until next time,
Pooky
Pooky Knightsmith PhD
Keynote Speaker
Speaking and webinar enquiries: Ellie@speakingofbooks.co.uk