Stacy Ring OT & Coach

11/12/2025

During my sons most recent AR, we discussed the recent percieved increase in EHCPs and both managed to agree the current system is unsustainable and whilst the SENCO seemed optimistic about the new reforms I am slightly apprehensive.

Currently in Scotland, 43% of children are now identified as having additional learning needs. Rather than viewing this as a problem within the children, this figure raises serious questions about whether the mainstream education system is fit for purpose. The current model prioritises early academic achievement, sits children still when their bodies are wired to move, and limits opportunities for play and exploratio, the natural foundations of development. As children grow, they enter large, impersonal secondary schools where meaningful adult connection is minimal and test performance dominates the narrative about their future ( thank you Dr Naomi Fisher )

My child entered school struggling.He was labelled within the first 10 days, amd they have been difficult to shake.

Schools tend to be very quick to label CHILDREN as having behavioural issues or additional needs, as if they are the ones who are faulty rather than the structure around them. Assessments and diagnoses then multiply, not because children are increasingly ‘broken’, but because the system has become increasingly rigid. The less flexible the system becomes, the more children fail to fit within it.

I believe the core issue is not the CHILDREN who are still learning and developing, it is that the system was never designed with their developmental needs in mind. Until we recognise this, the number of children identified as having additional needs will continue.

06/11/2025

This OT week I'm celebrating the power of timely support.

During the SEND process, parent carer's are at higher risk of stress, low mood, anxiety and burnout. They often use all their energy for and carry the weight of assesments, meetings, behaviour that challenges, transitions and the high expectations from thr health, education and social care sector.

What I would like to see and be a part of is:

Early guidance for parent carers for when worries first appear

Providing practical strategies during the thick of assesments and pressures from local authorities and schools

Providing ongoing support after an EHCP has been issued, when real life begins.

OTs often walk alongside families, I want to support them to find clarity in the process, maintain a good level of health and well being, and increase confidence at every stage.

03/11/2025

So proud to be an Occupational Therapis!!!

It’s National ! �

Last week, we marked , recognising the vital contribution of occupational therapists across the UK.

Now, we’re celebrating how OTs make a difference every day - helping people recover, adapt and live independently. From rehabilitation and mental health support to helping children and older adults thrive, their work touches every part of life.

Thank you to every OT for your continued commitment to safe and effective care. �

Find out more about how occupational therapists are being celebrated this week via the Royal College of Occupational Therapists

31/10/2025

Happy Halloween to all the lovely parent carers!

Have you felt stressed, overwhelmed or burnt out during this half term?

You don’t have to carry it all alone.

I’m offering a FREE 1 hour 1:1 initial session with a 30 minute follow up, designed to help parent carers like you:

✨ Reduce stress and prevent burnout
✨ Build emotional resilience
✨ Find balance and regain energy
✨ Navigate SEND challenges with confidence

Together, we can work on whats meaningful for you and your family, so you can feel calmer, and more in control.

💬 Limited spaces available, comment SPOOKY or DM me today to book your spot.

29/10/2025

Half term has been full of fun, memory making, and lucky for us it's a two week affair locally.

So with laptop in one hand, a teen to entertain when I can, and creating 6000 fun and spooky meal and snack ideas, I'm embracing all the mess and chaos that goes with it!

Tag a fellow superhero who just gets it! 👇

27/10/2025

Today just so happens to be World Occupational Therapy Day!!

As an OT, I'm proud to support people to do what matters most to them, whether thats remaining in their own home, coping with intrusive thoughts or finding balance in daily life.

It's a facinating career, and like many careers it definately has it's ups and downs. It can be challenging to accurately describe what we do, seeing as their is a place for OT pretty much everywhere!

OT isn't just equipment, or discharge planning. It can be supporting a new mother navigate post-natal depression, or a child write their name, a young person regulate their emotions or a stroke patient use a knife and fork again. We can support anyone reach their individual gials whatever they may be.

Sometimes OTs feel trapped and frustrated because of how others percieve our profession and the neat boxes they like to fit us in.

But with good quality support being an OT even in the most challenging setting can be rewarding.

Here's to celebrating our profession and the difference it makes, one person and one goal at a time

23/10/2025

To all the parent carers, yes it's that time of year again!!

Anybody else begin to stuggle towards the end there? Gosh we were all getting irritable and came down with virus' , not severe enough to warrant time off but enough to make you feel drained, exhausted and begging for half term!!

One of the bonus' of being an OT and Parent Coach, with lived experience I see how easy it is to pour everything you have into making sure your kids have all their needs met whilst ignoring your own.

So heres a gentle reminder it's ok to pause and have your hot drink or sweet treat or whatever it is you managed to put aside for yourself!!

It's ok to say no, no to halloween events, parties, days out...ect because sometimes the stress and anxiety just isn't worth it. Simply rest and recharge!

It's also ok to say yes to the social groups with those that get it, even if your ND teen is convinced they won't enjoy it and want to just take the free pumpkin home!! That is also ok!!

Across the next two weeks depending on where you are in the UK step outside for a moment, take 3 deep breaths before responding or shake up and move your body.

Half term doesn't have to be filled with perfect pumpkin patch pictures or halloween costumes!!




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21/10/2025

Amazing role for OTs.

Occupational therapist Amanda Hawes talks about her role at the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice in Peterborough.

14/10/2025

Entitlement:

UK PARENTAL LEAVE IS UNPAID!

However it shouldn't be overlooked and could be a valuable resource for those who could accodate 18 unpaid weeks.

It's not for everyone, but it could help someone.

Theres a limit of 4 weeks per year for each child. But do check with your employer as they are able to use their discretion.

You must take the parental leave in whole weeks, not a day here and there.

You must be with the employer for more than a year.

Not be self-employed, or be a worker for an agency or contractor.

Be named on the birth certificate or adoption certificate

Not be a foster carer

The child must be under 18.

Please do check your workplace policy, and drop me a DM if you need support with requesting parental leave or a chat to discuss your options.

03/10/2025

Witnessing the pain unfolding in so many corners of the world right now is really heartbreaking. The recent attack on the synagogue in Manchester is horrifying, every act of violence against innocent people, regardless of their faith or background, is a tragedy that must be called out. No one should ever fear for their life because of their religion or identity.

At the same time, my support remains with the people of Gaza, who continue to endure unimaginable suffering. Being pro-humanity means standing against all forms of violence from antisemitism to the devastating conditions in Gaza.

I genuinely dream of a future where peace, justice, and safety are not privileges for the few, but rights for everyone here in the UK, in Israel, in Palestine, in every community around the world.

30/09/2025

One small win today.

Today my small win wasn't a milestone, meeting a expectation, or having a huge breakthrough it was something simple: consistently going to the gym. I know I enjoy it, I know it makes me feel energised and it helps clear my head!

However with all the ebbs and flows of everyday life as a working parent carer its been far too easy to say "not today" or "I'm too busy".

But it is amazing how small mindset shifts can boost energy, reduce stress, and remind us that progress doesn't always have to be massive.

Whats your one small win today?

Drop it in the COMMENTS.

Let's celebrate today!!!