Safe Spaces with Sam

20/04/2026

🦋🌞What is regulation?🌞🦋

Self-regulation is the ability to control one's behavior, emotions, and thoughts and react appropriately to whatever life throws at us 😌

If a child (or adult) is deregulated they could be angry, grumpy, short tempered, or quiet and withdrawn, not themselves basically 😔

I ensure a coaching session begins with the child being as comfortable, calm and regulated as possible and my little regulation kit is perfect for this job 👍

I also have one of these in my bag when I'm out with my girls, just in case 😉

I sell the empty pouches, which can be personalised to suit your requirements, visit my shop on my website and message me to order http://safe.spaces.square.site

Pop over to my website and drop me an email to receive a coaching information pack
http://safe-spaces.square.site
sam.safespaces@gmail.com

19/04/2026

🦋🌞Lots on offer in my digital shop 🌞🦋

You may not be aware that I also have a digital products shop with lots of resources, many of which are FREE!!

Metaphorical stories to tackle sleep, anxiety, anger, confidence, trying new foods, bravery and guided visualisations for relaxation.

Printable workbooks to help with anxiety, transition, positivity and confidence and preparing for a residential trip.

The link is https://beacons.ai/safespaceswithsam

18/04/2026

🦋🌞The four happy hormones 🌞🦋

You've probably heard of them but perhaps don't know much about these four very important hormones.

1. *Dopamine*: The Reward Hormone. Lots of our children get this one from gaming unfortunately. Game makers are experts in building in little dopamine hits to make them addictive. Now you know why it's so hard to get them off and it causes so many arguments.

Interestingly those with ADHD have been found to have lower levels of dopamine, so will be seeking it out more and did you know goading arguments from siblings is also dopamine hit inducing!

2. *Endorphins*: The Pain-Relief Hormone. This is triggered by exercise, meditation, and social connections.

3. *Oxytocin*: The Love Hormone, which is triggered by hugs, physical touch, and social bonding and helps us to feel connected and cherished.

4. *Serotonin*: The Mood-Boosting Hormone
and is increased by sunlight, gratitude, and mindfulness it can help to keep us calm and feeling confident.

The majority of our serotonin is made in our gut, which is why it's vital we look at diet when thinking about our mental health.

*Natural Ways to Boost Happy Hormones:*

1. Exercise outdoors
2. Practice mindfulness and meditation
3. Connect with loved ones
4. Listen to uplifting music
5. Get enough sleep
6. Eat a balanced diet
7. Engage in hobbies

In coaching we look at these hormones and whether a lack of one or more could be contributing to the issue. We work together to find strategies and solutions which can increase them.

For more information about 1:1 coaching drop me an email to sam.safespaces@gmail.com or visit http://safe-spaces.square.site

17/04/2026

🦋🌞Self-Esteem🌞🦋

Healthy self-esteem grows from feeling capable, understood, and encouraged.

Focus on effort, not perfection. Celebrate persistence over outcome.

💡 Try:Praise effort: “You tried different ways to solve that problem. I’m proud of you for not giving up.”

In coaching we celebrate the good qualities that young people have in lots of different ways, usually creatively. For more information about 1:1 coaching, drop me a message to sam.safespaces@gmail.com or visit http://safe-spaces.square.site

16/04/2026

🦋🌞Co-Regulation🌞🦋

Before self-regulation, young children and those with a neurodivergence in particular need co-regulation. Your calm presence helps their nervous system settle. This of course is more difficult if they have displayed undesirable behaviour, or you're in public.

Your tone, voice, and body language communicate safety. When children experience your calm, they internalize these skills and can manage stress more effectively over time.

It's another skill we visit in coaching sessions. For more information about 1:1 coaching drop me a message to sam.safespaces@gmail.com or visit http://safe-spaces.square.site

15/04/2026

🦋🌞I'm adding to my offering🌞🦋

Rather than doing lives about different topics which then get lost on my page, thanks to some great advice from a friend I've now got my own Safe Spaces YouTube channel (no kids im not a 'YouTuber' now!) so you can watch content about mental health topics whenever you want to.

I will be adding to the channel slowly but surely over the coming weeks, so subscribe to get updates.

https://youtube.com/-y4y?si=0n0jAfIzlUQgj4jw

15/04/2026

🦋🌞Another Year of Supporting the Next Generation 🦋🌞

Today I’m celebrating my birthday, and as I look back on the past year, I’m struck by how much I’ve learned from the families I work with.

Whether it’s a 7 year old learning how to navigate a "big feelings" meltdown, or a 17 year old trying to find their footing under the weight of social and academic pressure, one thing remains the same, parents just want to see their children thrive.

I know that parenting often feels like trying to solve a puzzle while the pieces are constantly changing shape. One day you’re managing a tantrum, and the next, you’re trying to decode the "fine" your teenager gives you when you ask about their day.

My birthday wish? That every parent feels less alone in this process. You don’t have to have all the answers, you just need the right tools to find them.

For more information about 1:1 coaching drop me a message to sam.safespaces@gmail.com or visit http://safe-spaces.square.site

14/04/2026

13/04/2026

🦋🌞Mind–Body Connection🌞🦋

Emotions live in the body. Stress can cause headaches, stomachaches, or restlessness. This is why as an example, children will say they have a tummy ache when it's time for school, but really they're experiencing anxiety.

Teaching children to listen to their bodies supports regulation and self-awareness and is a big part of the coaching process.

For more information about 1:1 coaching for you or your child, drop me a message to sam.safespaces@gmail.com or visit http://safe-spaces.squate.site

12/04/2026

🌞🦋 Fidgets: The Golden Rules 🌞🦋

​We know fidgets are brilliant for focus, but let’s be real—without a plan, they can quickly turn into distractions!

​To keep my classroom running smoothly (and to show skeptical teachers just how well they work), I use these simple rules with my superstars. It’s all about teaching responsibility and helping kids understand that these are tools for their brains, not just toys for their hands.

How do you manage sensory tools in your space?

12/04/2026

🌞🦋Back to School Tips🦋🌞

The first day back at school after a break can be tough, no matter how old you are! It's very normal to feel a bit anxious, overwhelmed, squiggly (the word in our house), or just plain grumpy.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1️⃣ *It's okay to take time to adjust*: You don't have to bounce back right away. Ease into the routine and be patient with yourself. As a parent this is the same for you too, I'm not excited to be setting that alarm again tonight!

2️⃣ *You're not alone*: Everyone's feeling it – teachers, parents, and even the school lunch lady! With both my parent and teacher hat on I can tell you it's true!

3️⃣ *Remember the good times*: Think about the fun you had during the break and the memories you made. Talk about those in the morning to both distract and feel positive.

4️⃣*Think about the good reasons to be back*: Focus on the exciting things they'll get to do at school, seeing friends is usually a great pull, doing their favourite subjects, you can even pull the having a break from their sibling card if appropriate! Again this creates a positive around going back.

5️⃣*Keep demands low*: Particularly if you have a child who doesn't like to be told what to do! Give them choices, keep their routine the same as before the holiday if they like predictability, get as much ready in advance as you can to save last minute panic and stress. Keep a low voice, think a very calm and relaxed household.

6️⃣*Regulation strategies*: You know what works well for your child to keep them relaxed, if it's crunching ice, chewing, having hugs, stroking a pet, fidgets, whatever it is, have it all ready to go.

Be patient, it might take a day or two, but you'll get back into the swing of things. Remember to do all the same things when they come back from school too, they'll likely be tired and grumpy that end of the day too!

For more information about 1:1 coaching for you or your child drop me a message to sam.safespaces@gmail.com or visit http://safe-spaces.square.site