13/01/2026
A Child’s Voice – After School, I Need You to Know
The Child Who Masks
Earlier today I shared the swan model.
The one that looks calm on the surface, gliding through the school day — while underneath, it’s paddling fast just to stay afloat.
This is that same child, speaking now.
When I come out of school, I’m not being “dramatic”.
I’m not suddenly difficult.
I’m not undoing all the good behaviour you were told about.
I’ve been holding it together all day.
I’ve pushed feelings down so I didn’t stand out.
I’ve copied others so I could fit in.
I’ve kept my stims small and hidden.
I’ve smiled when I didn’t feel OK.
I’ve tried to remember every rule so no one got cross.
I’ve ignored what felt too loud, too bright, too much.
And by the time I reach you, there’s nothing left in the tank.
What looks like defiance, tears, shutdown, or anger after school is often exhaustion from masking.
If this feels familiar, you’re not alone — and neither is your child.
To SAVE, click on the image, tap the three dots, and choose Save.
If you’d like the boy version, comment BOY below.
My Masking Toolkit supports parents and educators to understand masking, recognise the hidden load, and reduce the pressure children carry just to be accepted. Link in comments below ⬇️ or via Linktree Shop in Bio.
