Andy the Aspie

21/11/2025

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Swindon author's new book features neurodiverse characters

https://swindonlink.com/lifestyle/wolfy-book/

21/11/2025

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From the The Therapist Parent
We can view the developing child’s brain as the ‘upstairs brain’ and ‘downstairs brain’. Dan Sigel describes the skills of the ‘upstairs brain’ as supporting our sound decision making (planning, controlling our emotions/body and also supporting our understanding of empathy and reason). Compared to the ‘downstairs brain’ which is responsible for our big emotions (like fear and anger) and our innate reactions/impulses like fight or flight. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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When the child becomes dysregulated, the ‘upstairs brain’ and ‘downstairs brain’ have trouble communicating and are not integrated. There is a term called ‘flipping your lid’- meaning the ‘upstairs brain’ is unable to monitor the actions of the ‘downstairs brain’. Rather than a reminder of the consequence or reward, what the child needs in this moment of dysregulation is connection, nurture and comfort. This approach supports the ‘downstairs brain’ integrating with the ‘upstairs brain’ to support the child to regulate and feel understood. Once the child is regulated, you then are more able to reason with the child! ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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More information on my blog https://www.thetherapistparent.com/post/why-parents-need-to-understand-brain-development

20/11/2025

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20/11/2025

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Someone asked me what I think autistic kids need.

I think they need loving, supportive, mentors who want to help bring out the best in them. I think they need to be treated with love and respect instead of treated like they’re broken.

thoughts on Twitter

18/11/2025

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So… I don’t think many of you know but I get paid based on how long you all spend watching my videos or how much you are engaging with my content. I do ADHD advocacy, content creation and entrepreneurs full time now despite that I’m a qualified speech and language therapist because I am so passionate about it and LOVE helping others feel less alone and more empowered (plus I feel soooo much less frequently burnt out and get to make reasonable adjustments for myself). If only I was a little more consistent etc # FB could truly enable me to be able to pay our bills. So if you ever felt like you wanted to support me in any way, share or form just know that I’m not lying when I say your views, comments, shares, likes and messages truly make a difference- not just to the way I feel (knowing it helps truly makes the world of a difference to me and it’s all I could really hope for) but it also makes a huge difference for my family and my ability to carry on doing this. So thank you from the bottom of my heart for being the BEST community and support I could hope for.

18/11/2025

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🚦 Attendance traffic light charts. They still keep landing in inboxes and book bags every term.

But the truth remains:
❌ They shame children who are already struggling
❌ They fracture trust between schools and families
❌ They raise real questions about the Equality Act and whether schools are upholding it

And let’s be clear ⬇️
👉 Fines and punishments do not improve attendance
👉 Traffic light systems do nothing to address underlying need
👉 Children deserve understanding and support, not shame

There are better ways.

During School Avoidance Awareness Week 2025, we explored compassionate, inclusive approaches that really work - rooted in law, lived experience and professional expertise.

✨ Every webinar and resource is now available on demand inside the Sunshine Academy.

🌐 Watch them back today: www.sunshine-support.org/academy

17/11/2025

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17/11/2025

With Sophie James – I just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

17/11/2025

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15/11/2025

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Online Mentoring Sessions

Are you (or your child/teen) looking for extra support, encouragement, or guidance when it comes to neurodivergence?

I offer one-to-one mentoring sessions designed to help people of all ages gain confidence, set goals, and navigate everyday challenges.

I have worked with many neurodivergent teenage girls talking through challenges facing social interactions, the schooling system and just the day-day. As someone who has finished secondary school, college and university, I faced many challenges myself and wish I had someone to relate to during these times.

These sessions are friendly, supportive, and tailored to each individual’s needs.

Please note:
These are mentoring sessions and are not a replacement for therapy or counselling. I am not a therapist or counsellor, but I am here to support and guide you in a positive, practical way.

Let’s work together to build confidence, clarity, and direction. 🌈

To get into contact: send me a message via Messenger or email sophiejamesmentoring@outlook.com. I’ll get back to you with all the details!

15/11/2025

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13/11/2025

With Yenn Purkis Neurodiversity page – I just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉