🎙️The Diaries of a SEND Parent🎙️

Episode 19: James Hunt

Welcome back to episode 19 of 🎙️The Diaries of a SEND Parent🎙️ Today I am Joined by the incredible James Hunt, a dedicated father of two autistic boys Jude who is 17 and Tommy who is 14. In this conversation James talks about the realities of parenting autistic children, the emotion toll it takes when your a full time carer and the importance of connection and community. James doesn’t really need an Intro as he has been telling his story and building a community on his well known online platform @storiesaboutautism for the last ten years. He talks about how social media has helped him and so many others feel less alone on this journey . we also talk about his inclusive clothing brand SAA which was set up just 18 months ago and how he uses it to foster a greater understanding and awareness of autism. Throughout our chat, reminds us how vital it is to celebrate the small wins or as he calls them inch stones, find Support among fellow parents and embrace the differences that make our children who they are. So whether you’re a parent or a carer or just someone wanting to better understand the world of neurodiversity this episode is packed with insights, honesty and hope. Please show support as always to my incredible guest James and follow his journey using the handle @storiesaboutautism across all platforms. Also please visit SAAclothing.com to view his inclusive clothing and accessories. If you are enjoying this episode please help the show by rating it on Apple or Spotify and follow the podcast on Instagram @thediariesofasendparentpodcast for the latest news and updates.

Episode 18: Tash Delrosario

Welcome back to another episode of 🎙️The Diaries of a SEND Parent🎙️ In episode 18 I’m joined by my very first International Guest Tash DelRosario all the way from Australia. Tash is a proud parent to her two daughters Ava and Aliyah both of whom are diagnosed with level three autism. Tash opens up about her family journey through diagnosis, education, support systems, and the emotional highs and lows of parenting children with additional needs . We dive into important topics like sensory processing, communication tools such as AAC and the critical role of self-care for parents navigating the SEND world. Tash also shares why celebrating small wins matter how patience and understanding go along way and the importance of finding a support network So whether you’re a parent carer or a professional working with SEND families this conversation offers warmth, insight and reassurance that you are never alone in this journey. Disclaimer- please note: As this episode was recorded internationally, with Tash joining me from Australia, there are a few minor connection glitches throughout. Thank you for your patience I promise the conversation is absolutely worth it! Please follow Tash on social media using the handle @tashdelrosario and show her much love for being vulnerable, open and honest with me about the highs and lows of her SEND parenting journey. If you have enjoyed this episode please make sure you rate the podcast show and follow @thediariesofasendparentpodcast on Instagram for episode Information and updates Thanks for all your support so far it’s much appreciated.

Episode 17: Adam Parkinson

Hello and welcome back to episode 17 of The diaries of a SEND parent Today’s episode is a really special one as I welcome my very first SEND dad to the podcast. Adam Parkinson is a teacher, one half of the hit podcast 2 Mr ps in a pod and a married dad to two beautiful children Isla who is 9 and Max who is 6 Adam opens up about his journey with youngest Max who has been diagnosed autistic, he talks about the challenges, and the deep love and joy that comes with raising a child with additional needs. Adam brings honesty, humour, and heart reminding us that even on the toughest days, there is always something beautiful to hold onto. This episode is a little reminder to adore your kids just as they are, and to focus on the positives, no matter how small. Because sometimes, the smallest wins mean the most. So grab a cuppa, take a breath, and let’s dive into a powerful conversation that will lift your spirits and warm your heart.

Episode 16: Charlie Beswick

In episode 17 of The diaries of a SEND parent, I’m joined by the incredible Charlie Beswick who runs the well known and loved SEND account @outalteredlife Charlie is mum to twin bows Harry and Oliver and a passionate advocate and voice in the SEND community. In this conversation she shares her inspiring Journey with Harry who has a rare craniofacial condition called Golden Har syndrome and is diagnosed with Autism and a learning disability. She discusses the initial shock of his diagnosis, the emotional turmoil of processing grief and expectations and the complexities of sibling relationships. Charlie highlights the challenges of accessing support and community resources, the importance of sharing her story and the misconceptions surrounding being a SEND parent. She reflects on her personal growth, the joys and struggles of parenting and offers valuable advice for new SEND parents navigating their own journeys. This episode is a raw and honest conversation about resilience, reality and the importance of community for SEND families. So whether you’re new to this journey or have been walking it for years, Charlie’s wisdom will speak to your heart. Please show support and love to my amazing guest and remember to rate the podcast show For updates, episode information and previews please follow the podcast on instagram @thediariesofasendparentpodcast

Episode 15: Lorna Breen

Welcome back to The Diaries of a SEND parent, you are listening to episode 15 which is one incredibly close to my heart. I got the amazing opportunity to sit down with not only an inspiring SEND mum but my wonderful friend Lorna Breen. Lorna is a loving mum to her beautiful babies Alanis-Ocean who is 4 and Rayne who is 2. They are both on the pathway for an autism diagnosis, they both have special educational needs and they are both Lorna’s world. Alongside her partner Rossi, they navigate the highs and lows of SEND life with so much love, unity, and strength. Based in Manchester, Lorna has built a powerful community on Instagram as @alanis_ocean_rayne__ransford, where she shares her journey with raw honesty and deep compassion. Lorna’s story is so much more than just parenting. It’s about faith. It’s about resilience. And it’s about finding the light even on the darkest days. She is deeply spiritual, and her words, her presence, and her energy lift up everyone around her including me. Lorna is one of the most authentic, kind, and powerful women I know. Her love for her children is fierce, her message is always uplifting, and her strength is something I deeply admire. In this episode, we talk about what it really means to live with your hands full but your heart fuller ,The late nights, the tears, the advocacy, the small wins that feel like miracles and most of all, the unconditional love that carries us through. So, make yourself a cuppa, take a breath, and settle in for this emotional, honest, and deeply moving conversation with my beautiful friend, Lorna Breen. Please remember as always to show all the love and support to my incredible guest this week and if you have enjoyed the episode to share and rate the show. To follow Lorna’s journey you can follow her on Instagram @alanis_ocean_rayne_ransford.