Wellbeing & SEN Support for Our Families

At Woodside Park School, we understand that mental health and sensory wellbeing are deeply interconnected, especially for our autistic learners. Below is a curated list of free resources and services available to support your child’s unique needs and your own wellbeing as a parent or carer.

Autism-Specific Resources for Parents

Parenting a neurodivergent child requires a different set of tools. These resources focus on the “Double Empathy” problem, sensory processing, and neuro-affirming care:

• The National Autistic Society (NAS): Provides a comprehensive guide for parents on “Anxiety in Autistic Children.”
• Affirming Neurodiversity: NeuroClastic and Tilt Parenting offer free articles and podcasts that reframe “challenging behavior” as “communicating a need,” which many of our parents find life-changing.
• Child Autism UK: Supporting services for parents to get support with their child

 

Tools for Home: Sensory & Communication

For primary-aged children, emotional regulation often starts with the body. These are free digital tools parents can use:

• Zones of Regulation (Simplified): Many of our students use the “Zones” in school. You can download free visuals to use at home to help your child identify if they are in the Green (Calm), Yellow (Frustrated), Red (Overwhelmed), or Blue (Sad) Zone.
• Sensory “Brain Breaks”: GoNoodle is a free platform with videos designed to help children either “up-regulate” (get energy out) or “down-regulate” (calm their nervous system).
• Visual Timetables: Using visual schedules at home can significantly reduce transition anxiety. We can provide school-consistent symbols if you contact your child’s class teacher.

Crisis & Urgent Support (Neuro-Inclusive)

If your child is experiencing a “meltdown” or crisis that feels unmanageable, these services understand the specific needs of SEN families:

• The Family Help Line (Family Lives): Call 0808 802 6666, text 07537 404 282, or email familyline@family-action.og.uk for free emotional support for parents when things feel overwhelmed at home.
• Contact (For Families with Disabled Children): They provide a free helpline (0808 808 3555) for advice on any aspect of caring for a child with additional needs.

Support for Parents and Carers

Parenting is an incredible journey, but it is also one of the most demanding. It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed, and it’s okay if you aren’t feeling like yourself lately. While our doors are always open, we understand that sometimes you might prefer to seek advice or support independently of the school.

We have curated a directory of trusted UK-based charities and professional services. These organisations offer confidential, judgement-free guidance for mental health, anxiety, and alcohol or substance concerns. Your well-being is vital—for you and your family—and these resources allow you to find the right path forward at your own pace.

Supporting Charities and Organisation