Emily has extensive experience working with children with Neurodiversity, both professionally, through teaching drama, within her role as a youth and family worker, and on a personal level; mainly specialising in people with ADHD and ASD. It’s only in recent years that society are gaining more awareness in the mainstream, of these conditions, and even now it can be difficult for them to be perceived if they are high functioning. Many adults in their 30’s and 40’s are now beginning to recognise elements of the conditions in themselves.
These individuals may have felt misunderstood through childhood, particularly within school, as though they were on the outside looking in, or that something was missing. Now they know, midway through their life, at last they feel they make sense. However, what if children were educated about this in school, along with their parents and teachers, so that they have more awareness?
Within secondary schools, Emily runs talks specifically about ADHD and Autism, which can be tailored for students, parents and staff, in a bid to gain awareness throughout the whole school community, covering key factors one could recognise in high functioning people, that otherwise may fall under the radar. There would be the opportunity to split in to small groups to discuss these elements in a safe space, and talk about how the brain could feel when its overloaded. Emily looks at what we could do to help others who might be struggling, and who to speak to in confidence, if you feel that some of these challenges might apply to you.
The talks also cover challenges in a child’s mind that can manifest in to behaviourial difficulties; if not managed correctly, covering techniques to help with this, as well as ways to confide in others. Often these conditions can be misinterpreted for anxiety and/or depression, so learning to understand the differences is key, as well as exploring ways to avoid anxious feelings and thoughts, if we have the knowledge.
The importance is including the students, letting them have their say, and finding out where they stand, and what changes could be made in their opinion.
Anti-bullying
Emily has been provided anti bullying workshops in schools for several years.
Emily leads group discussions about the different types of bullying that can occur, and ways to deal with it. Students can also take some time out to role play different ideas. Various statements, which they have the opportunity to "agree" or "disagree" with, can lead to a highly thought-provoking discussion.
Emily is a member of a high profile anti-bullying charity and has worked with some of the young ambassadors for the organisation who are extremely inspiring individuals. People such as these could be key examples for young people in schools.
The importance is including students, letting them have their say, and finding out where they stand, and what changes could be made in their opinion. Facilitating practical anti-bullying activities make students think; and remember. These workshops can be tailored to suit secondary school students; parents and staff.
Worcestershire
Please enquire for pricing information.
