Four resources this week, all about working with neurodivergent brains rather than against them: whole-school design, shutdown support, processing time, and ADHD revision.
Neurodivergent-Friendly Schools [SLIDES AND NOTES] A neurodivergent-friendly school is a people-friendly school. Clearer communication, calmer environments, predictable routines, genuine acceptance of different ways of being. These things help neurodivergent students thrive and they help everyone else too. Slides and notes from a trust-wide conference exploring six foundations: clarity and consistency, meeting sensory needs, supporting executive function, expanding communication, building on strengths, and welcoming neurodivergent adults. Includes a planning tool that maps to all six. [for webinar or speaking enquiries, email pooky@pookyknightsmith.com to discuss].
When They Shut Down [DOWNLOAD] Shutdown catches people off guard. One moment a child seems fine, the next they’ve gone completely still and won’t speak, move, or respond. The instinct is to fix it, which is exactly what makes it worse. This covers what actually helps, what to say and not say, and how to create a path back afterwards without triggering another shutdown. Print it, share it, stick it somewhere useful.
You’re Making Processing Harder Without Realising [VIDEO] 58 seconds on one well-meaning habit that resets the processing clock every time: repeating or rephrasing the question. What helps instead is waiting. Actually waiting. Longer than feels comfortable.
ADHD and Revision [INSTAGRAM] Students with ADHD often want to do well. The motivation is there. What’s missing isn’t effort, it’s an approach that fits how their brain works. This carousel covers why ADHD brains need stimulation to activate, why different subjects have different energy costs, and why pacing, music, movement, and short bursts aren’t avoiding focus, they’re how focus happens. Useful for teachers, parents, and students themselves heading into exam season.
Upcoming webinars:
Supporting Neurodivergent Staff Tuesday 5th May, 4pm to 5.30pm Free webinar delivered by me, run by South Central Teaching School on creating genuinely inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent staff. Open to anyone in my network.
7 Quick Wins: Helping Neurodivergent Children Make and Keep Friends Wednesday 20th May, 4pm to 5pm Free session for teachers, TAs, SENCOs, pastoral staff, and parents on supporting neurodivergent children’s friendships.
Neurodivergent Burnout Wednesday 27th May, 7pm to 8.30pm £20 (free to paid Patreon supporters). Practical strategies for anyone supporting a neurodivergent child or young person through burnout, with content also useful for neurodivergent adults.
7 Quick Wins: Supporting the Child Who Shuts Down Tuesday 16th June, 4pm to 5pm Free session for teachers, TAs, SENCOs, and school leaders on supporting children who shut down.
THANK YOU for reading - please forward this email to anyone who you think might find it helpful and feel free to use and share my resources.
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Thanks, as always, for all that you do.
Until next time,
Pooky x
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Pooky Knightsmith, PhD, CPsychol, MA (Oxon)
Autistic Speaker | Author | Advisor | Assessor
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