The Oxygen Mask Project

Navigating Life's Transitions: Supporting Our Children Through Change

Episode Description: Navigating Change & Transitions for Neurodiverse Children Change is inevitable, but for neurodiverse children, it can be particularly challenging. In this episode of The Oxygen Mask Project, hosts Elena and Ona discuss the complexities of change and transitions, from the start of a new school year to sudden shifts in routine, and how these can impact neurodiverse children. They explore:  🔹 Why transitions can trigger anxiety and stress  🔹 Strategies to help children adjust to changes, including social stories, visual aids, and structured preparation 🔹 The importance of consistency and advocating for your child in schools and support services 🔹 How parents can prepare themselves for these transitions while maintaining their own well-being Elena and Ona also share personal stories and practical tips for making transitions smoother—both for children and for parents. They emphasise that while change is part of life, with the right strategies and support, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. 💙 Join the Community! 💙 We’re building a safe space for Black parents raising neurodiverse children. Connect with us: 🔗 Follow us on social media: 📲 Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn https://www.instagram.com/the_oxygen_mask_project/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=196008113586144 https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-oxygen-mask-project/ 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: 📍 Spotify | Apple Podcasts | https://open.spotify.com/show/6eoZ7JucxlBHiUPSQqkUEu https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-oxygen-mask-project/id1794358815 🌍 Visit our website for events, coaching, and resources → https://www.theoxygenmaskproject.org.uk 💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Leave a review & share this episode with another parent who needs support.

Journeys of Discovery: How we discovered our children's neurodiversity with special guest Ije Chukukere

How do you know when your child has additional needs? In this powerful episode of The Oxygen Mask Project, hosts Elena and Ona are joined by special guest Ije to share their personal journeys of recognising neurodiversity in their children and navigating the path to diagnosis. They explore: 🧩 Early signs – From speech delays to sensory sensitivities, the subtle (and not-so-subtle) indicators that something was different. 📚 The role of schools & professionals – How nurseries, teachers, and speech therapists identified potential concerns—and what happened next. 💡 The emotional impact – Processing the realisation that your child is neurodiverse, managing the feelings of guilt, and embracing the journey. ⚖️ The diagnosis process – The challenges of getting formal assessments, the differences in professional opinions, and the battle for recognition and support. 🛠️ Advocating for your child – The importance of pushing for assessments, securing EHCPs, and fighting for the right support in education. Whether you're at the beginning of this journey or deep in the process, this episode offers valuable insights, reassurance, and solidarity for parents facing similar challenges. 💙 Join the Community! 💙 We’re building a safe space for Black parents raising neurodiverse children. Connect with us: 🔗 Follow us on social media: 📲 Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn https://www.instagram.com/the_oxygen_mask_project/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=196008113586144 https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-oxygen-mask-project/ 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: 📍 Spotify | Apple Podcasts | https://open.spotify.com/show/6eoZ7JucxlBHiUPSQqkUEu https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-oxygen-mask-project/id1794358815 🌍 Visit our website for events, coaching, and resources → https://www.theoxygenmaskproject.org.uk 💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Leave a review & share this episode with another parent who needs support.

Breathing Easier: The Launch of The Oxygen Mask Project

In this introductory episode of The Oxygen Mask Project, hosts Elena and Ona share their vision for a supportive community designed specifically for Black parents raising neurodiverse children. They discuss the unique challenges these families face—both within their own cultural context and in broader society—and the importance of prioritising self-care to be the best parents possible. Elena and Ona introduce the core elements of the project, including a safe space for discussions, guest expert interviews, live chats, group coaching, and counselling support. They highlight the importance of celebrating the quirks, achievements, and individuality of neurodiverse children while also tackling the systemic issues that affect them. Join the conversation, connect with others who understand your journey, and remember—before you can care for others, you must first put on your own oxygen mask. 🔗 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn at Oxygen Mask Project 🌍 Visit our website and join our growing community:      http://www.theoxygenmaskproject.org.uk  🎧 New episodes every two weeks on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 💙 Join the Community! 💙 We’re building a safe space for Black parents raising neurodiverse children. Connect with us: 🔗 Follow us on social media: 📲 Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn https://www.instagram.com/the_oxygen_mask_project/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=196008113586144 https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-oxygen-mask-project/ 🎧 Subscribe to the podcast: 📍 Spotify | Apple Podcasts | https://open.spotify.com/show/6eoZ7JucxlBHiUPSQqkUEu https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-oxygen-mask-project/id1794358815 🌍 Visit our website for events, coaching, and resources → https://www.theoxygenmaskproject.org.uk 💬 Let’s keep the conversation going! Leave a review & share this episode with another parent who needs support.