Pooky’s Weekly Round-Up: Issue 111
Anxiety in class, undercover lattes, and neurodivergent strengths...
This week has felt quietly lovely. I’ve been chuffed to see the new course landing well (thank you lovely people!), had some rich conversations about anxious classrooms, celebrated the strengths of neurodivergent minds—and sipped lattes under the alias Jane. Naturally.
If you’re in the mood for calm ideas, colourful brains, and a few small things that might just make a big difference, you’re in the right place.
Let’s dive in…
PRESENT: Anxiety in Class
This practical slide set shares 10 gentle, evidence-informed ways to support anxious students—whether they’re visibly overwhelmed or quietly struggling. Think calming tools, grounding ideas, visual frameworks (like “If…Then…” and “TIGGER”), and quick prompts you can try or tweak right away. It’s simple stuff that can make a real difference, especially for neurodivergent and trauma-affected learners.
Feel free to ues and share. Want me to run this session for your team? Ellie’s your go-to: Ellie@speakingofbooks.co.uk
DOWNLOAD: Pause, Breathe, Choose Your Next Move
This gentle, visual reminder is designed to support school staff during tricky moments - whether you're mid-meltdown (theirs or yours…) or just trying to keep calm in the corridor. It walks you through a simple three-step approach: pause, notice, respond. Ideal for staffroom walls, offices, or screensavers, it’s a small tool that can make a big difference when things get wobbly.
LEARN: Neurodivergent-Friendly Classroom
If you're looking for practical, compassionate ways to support autistic, ADHD, PDA, or sensory-sensitive students—this one's for you. My brand-new online course shares 10 powerful changes that can help school feel safer, calmer, and more inclusive. With 20 short videos and detailed notes, you'll find easy-to-use strategies to reduce overwhelm, support executive function, and meet diverse communication needs. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to deepen your practice, this course is designed to meet you where you are. One small, do-able step at a time.
P.S. The launch discount (60% off with code NEUROKIND) is valid until midnight on Monday 16th June- just in case you’ve been meaning to take a peek.
READ: Wellbeing Journal for Parents of NDChildren
This gentle, thoughtful book is a love letter to nature, neurodivergence, and wellbeing. Wide Open Spaces explores how outdoor experiences can support neurodivergent children and young people - not with rigid interventions, but with curiosity, compassion, and connection. It’s packed with ideas and reflections that’ll resonate whether you’re a parent, educator, or just someone who knows the power of a breath of fresh air. Quietly brilliant.
UNDERSTAND: Neurodivergent Strengths
We talk a lot about what’s hard - but this week’s explainer flips the focus. From creative thinking to deep loyalty, I’m spotlighting 8 strengths that often shine in neurodivergent minds. It’s a joyful, affirming reminder that different doesn’t mean deficient - and that celebrating what makes us unique is just as important as supporting what makes life tricky.
SMILE: In Starbucks, they call me Jane…
When “Porky” is your coffee-callout name, a quiet rebrand starts to make sense. These days, I order under “Jane” - simpler, less ironic (given my anorexic past), and a little bit undercover.
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Thank you, as always, for reading—and for the kind words so many of you have shared about the new course. It means more than you know.
If something here helps you or someone you support, please do pass it on—that’s what it’s all for.
And if you’d like to support my work, you can:
Share it with someone who might find it helpful
Pledge £1 a month on Patreon
Invite me to speak at your next event, online or in person
Thanks, as always, for reading.
Until next time,
Pooky
Pooky Knightsmith PhD
Keynote Speaker
Speaking and webinar enquiries: Ellie@speakingofbooks.co.uk