Why Are School Systems So Exhausting?

Why Are School Systems So Exhausting?

This episode is all about school systems and just how exhausting they can be as a SEND parent. We chat about our own experiences, meetings, emails, trying to be heard, and how different support can look depending on where you live. We also know we’re lucky in some ways because not every family has schools or staff that are supportive, understanding, or willing to work with them, and we really wanted to acknowledge that too. It’s basically just a very honest conversation about how tiring it all is sometimes. Constantly advocating for your child while trying to keep yourself together at the same time 🤍

The Sibling Side of SEND

The siblings of SEND children carry things too. In this episode, we’re talking about the sibling side of SEND. The guilt, the pressure, the protectiveness, the resentment, the maturity beyond their years… and the constant worry about whether we’re getting the balance right. We talk about “glass children”, the siblings who often become the easy ones because they have to be, and how SEND can shape the whole family in ways people don’t always see. This one is honest, emotional, and probably one a lot of parents will relate to. Because sometimes the children saying the least are carrying the most.

Masking: The Bit No One Sees

In this episode, we’re talking about masking… the bit no one sees until you get home. For some children, school gets the “perfect” version. The one who copes, follows the rules, and holds it all together. But when they walk through the door, everything they’ve been holding in comes out. We’ve seen both sides of this. One child who masks and saves it all for home. And one who can’t mask at all, where everything is visible, all the time. We talk about what that really looks like as parents. Being told “they’re fine here” while you’re dealing with the fallout. Feeling like no one quite believes you. And the emotional toll of holding it together yourself when everything around you feels like it’s unravelling. Because here’s the truth… There isn’t an “easy” version of this. Just different kinds of hard. If you’re navigating masking, meltdowns, school struggles, or just trying to make sense of it all, this episode is for you. You’re not alone in it.

Why we started SEND the Mums

Welcome to SEND the Mums. In our first episode, we’re introducing ourselves, talking about how this podcast came about, and why we felt like we needed a space to speak honestly about life as mums. We talk about parenting, school struggles, advocating for our children, and the constant overthinking that comes with it all. This podcast isn’t polished or perfect. It’s real, honest, and completely us. If you’re winging it too, you’re in the right place.