Confident Kids

Confident Kids

Specialist SEN service: training, advise and support with a focus on communication and emotional regulation.

Unlocking each child’s potential by guiding those who make it happen.

01/08/2024

Great session for local families. Contact Together, one step at a time for booking info

27/07/2024

Have just arrived home from a little family holiday to find this gorgeous gift from one of my clients.

So special!!

As we have just completed the first season of the podcast, I might need to record some new episodes to make best use of this!

26/07/2024

A new episode of Raising Confident Kids with SEN is out now! Join me as I talk to Lauren and Rina, the hosts of the , about the highs and lows of parenting kids with SEN. From finding self-compassion to the power of supportive communities this episode is packed with real, raw, and funny insights. Don't miss it - listen now: https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

23/07/2024

The latest episode of Raising Confident Kids with SEN is live! Join me, Sarah Billingham, and special guests Lauren and Rina from the as we discuss the complex yet rewarding journey of parenting children with special educational needs (SEN).
https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

In this heartfelt episode, Lauren shares her experience of balancing her role as a parent with guilt and self-criticism, and how vital self-compassion and balance are for mental health.

I open up about the difficulties of being both a teacher and a parent during pandemic homeschooling, as well as the challenges of advocating for my daughter despite my professional knowledge.

Rina takes us through the emotional landscape of grief, denial, and loneliness that often accompanies this journey. Together, we emphasise the importance of a supportive community, where parents can celebrate victories, share tips, and offer emotional support.

Tune in to listen to our honest, raw, (and sometimes amusing) discussions. Don't forget to rate, review, and follow the podcast - I love hearing your feedback! You can listen here: https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

Photos from Confident Kids's post 18/07/2024

An article I wrote on 'Making the Most of the Summer for Children with SEN' for Families magazine has been published in their July/August edition in Manchster, Hampshire North & Dorset issues.

17/07/2024

Do you find it difficult to help your child regulate their big emotions?

Don’t worry, the good news is, you are not alone!
https://buff.ly/3Y6jHuG

Too many parents are struggling to find the support, tools, and encouragement they need when faced with the challenges of their child’s communication and emotional regulation struggles. At Confident Kids, we know it shouldn’t have to be this hard

With nearly 20 years of experience working with children and their families, I have developed a deep understanding of the emotional and regulation needs of children. I am here to support you, a parent like you, in this journey.

Sign up to the Confident Kids newsletter to receive:
✓ Expert parenting tips
✓ Exclusive class announcements
✓ My latest podcast episodes
✓ Valuable resources for you and your child

https://buff.ly/3Y6jHuG

12/07/2024

Tune into the latest episode of Raising Confident Kids with SEN for expert tips on avoiding summer holiday meltdowns. Learn how to keep routines, manage challenging behaviours, and ensure your child’s well-being. Listen along here: https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

09/07/2024

Ready for a stress-free summer holiday? The latest episode of Raising Confident Kids with SEN" is now live! This week, I'm discussing practical tips and strategies to avoid the summer holiday meltdown and make the most out of your family time. From maintaining routines and managing challenging behaviours to the importance of sleep, nutrition, and physical activity.
You can listen to the episode here: https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

I talk about different challenges and offer you advice on pre-planning, engaging in physical activities, and quiet decompression times. Plus, discover how familiar anchor points and visual schedules can bring predictability and comfort to your holiday schedule.

Don't miss out - listen now and prepare for a summer filled with fun and fewer meltdowns! As always, I'd love your feedback - what are your favourite episodes? Are there any topics or guests you’d like us to cover next season? Please let us know! Rate, review, and follow for more insights and thorough support! 🌞

Photos from Confident Kids's post 03/07/2024

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟
The British Podcast Awards are back, and we need your support to win the Listeners' Choice Award!

🗳️ How to Vote:
1. Visit the British Podcast Awards website at https://buff.ly/3Lat590
2. Go to the Listeners' Choice category and search for "Raising Confident Kids with SEN"
3. Cast your vote
4. Help us spread the word and get others to vote for us!

Your vote can make a huge difference in raising awareness and support for parents navigating the world of special educational needs with their children.

Thank you for your support! 🙏

28/06/2024

🌟 New Episode Out Now! 🌟

In episode 12 of Raising Confident Kids with SEN, talk to Jo Long ( .learningtoloveautism ) about the importance of setting boundaries, embracing autism, and prioritising self-care for parents of children with special educational needs (SEN).

Jo shares her journey of learning about autism and sensory needs while coaching other mums through her service, Learning to Love Autism. 🌈
Tune in for insight, advice, and meaningful stories!

Listen here: https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

25/06/2024

🌟 New Episode of Raising Confident Kids with SEN 🌟

In our latest episode, I sit down with the incredible Jo Long ( .learningtoloveautism ) for a heartfelt conversation about parenting children with special educational needs (SEN).

Listen here: https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

Jo shares her deeply personal journey of parenting her autistic son, and how it led her to becoming a life coach for other mums through her service, Learning to Love Autism. 🌈 She opens up about the challenges of isolation, the importance of understanding and support, and the transformative power of self-care.

Highlights from the episode include:
- The significance of setting boundaries and saying no to commitments that detract from quality time with your children.
- The necessity of not feeling guilty for prioritising self-care.
- Jo's experience with autism, sensory processing needs, and ADHD - and how she found support.
- The benefit of one-on-one coaching and talking to neutral parties for emotional relief and solutions.
- Using a strengths-based approach in parenting to celebrate the unique abilities of neurodivergent children.

Join us as we discuss the ongoing nature of self-care, the value of open communication with partners, and the need for vulnerability and connection. This episode is packed with heartfelt stories and advice for parents navigating the complexities of SEN.

Please tune in, share with fellow parents, and remember to rate, review, and follow our podcast to help us reach more families! Listen now: https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

18/06/2024

🌟 NEW EPISODE ALERT! 🌟
Transitioning to a new school or class can be challenging for kids with SEN. Tune in to our latest episode of "Raising Confident Kids with SEN" where I share advice on making these transitions smoother using connection and predictability.
🎧✨ Listen here: https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

11/06/2024

📣 Brand new episode of "Raising Confident Kids with SEN"!
As the school year comes to a close, many parents are gearing up for their child's transition to a new school or class.
https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

This can be a stressful time, especially for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). In this episode called Helping Your SEN Child Transition at School with Confidence I'm sharing essential strategies to help ease this transition.

I share with you the importance of connection and predictability, and offer practical tips, like using visual tools, reading themed books, and maintaining routines to help your child feel safe and secure during this period of change.

Whether your child is moving into a new class or starting at a completely new school, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will benefit both you and your child.

Don't miss out - tune in now to learn how to make this transition as smooth as possible for your children! 🎧✨
https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

11/06/2024

This workshop is happening tomorrow,

Follow the link to book your place https://buff.ly/3UWlOOu

10/06/2024
07/06/2024

Are you worried about choosing the right school for your child with special educational needs (SEN)?

In episode 2 of 'Raising Confident Kids with SEN', my conversation with entrepreneur, Richard Woods reminded us of the importance of finding educational settings that amplify our children's strengths while providing the necessary support for their challenges. See my blog about the episode here: https://buff.ly/3x0T0MU

We touched on a topic familiar to many of us: feeling defensive when our children's struggles are brought to our attention by educators. Richard shared Poppy's challenges, but it’s not all about the hurdles; Richard’s story is also about victories, like finding a nurturing environment for her to grow.

Have you got an interesting or inspiring story about how you found your child's school? I'd love to hear your story. DM or send an email to [email protected]

06/06/2024

Great clip from the podcast episode with Dr Amy Brainy Moms

05/06/2024

Next week I will be running my free Transition Workshop - 'Preparing your child for transition to a new class or school'. And it’s not too late to book your space!

Transitioning can be difficult for most people, but especially for those that find change difficult on a daily basis. Although it’s not easy, there are ways to make this period of uncertainty easier and help you prepare your child for the new school year.

To book visit https://buff.ly/3UWlOOu

04/06/2024

In one of my favourite episodes yet of the "Raising Confident Kids with SEN" podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with the incredible Richard Woods.

Richard's story is truly uplifting - from his own challenges with dyslexia to witnessing his daughter's remarkable transformation at a nurturing special school that allowed her to shine. 💫

We dive into the pivotal decision to find the right supportive environment and how it empowered his daughter to thrive. Richard also opens up about his own dyslexia journey and his path to entrepreneurial success, proving that kids with SEN can achieve amazing things with the right support.

It's an inspiring conversation you won't want to miss! Listen to episode 2 now:
https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

31/05/2024

🎙️ New Episode! 🎙️ Join us as Suzanne Meill-Ingram ( Singing Hands ) shares how signing transformed communication with her daughter Ella on the Raising Confident Kids with SEN podcast. Discover the power of signing and get inspired by Suzanne's journey. Tune in now!
🔗 https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

29/05/2024

If you know your child finds change tricky, or transitioning from one thing to another often results in unregulated emotions, then I hope you will join me on the 12th of June for my Transition Workshop - ‘Preparing your child for transition to a new class or school’.

To make sure it’s accessible to all parents of 3 to 8 year olds who are needing some guidance during this next season, the workshop will be online and completely free.

Follow the link to book your place https://buff.ly/3UWlOOu

28/05/2024

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️
I'm thrilled to bring you the latest episode of Raising Confident Kids with SEN, featuring the incredible Suzanne Meill-Ingram MBE from Singing Hands
Join us as Suzanne shares her powerful journey of using signing to support communication with her daughter Ella.
https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

In this heartfelt conversation, Suzanne opens up about the challenges of raising a child with special educational needs, including a lack of initial support. She emphasises the transformative role that signing has played in her relationship with Ella and debunks the myths surrounding signing and speech development.

Suzanne and her colleague Tracy, founders of Singing Hands, have developed an array of resources from YouTube videos to books with Makaton signs ( The Makaton Charity ), making communication accessible and fun for children with special needs. They have turned their lived experiences into a mission to help other families, creating a positive and supportive community.

Highlights of this episode include:
- The significance of signing in building emotional bonds.
- The unexpected success and recognition of their work, including an MBE and meeting King Charles.
- Inspiring stories from their travels and heartwarming hospital visits.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about the power of signing, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to be inspired by Suzanne’s story and gain valuable insights into the world of signing for special needs communication.

You can listen to the episode here: https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

24/05/2024

I'd love to hear what guests you'd like on the podcast, whether it be trained professionals or if you'd like to hear more from parents who've been there, done that.

The podcast is a place for parents to share and learn from others. If there are questions you'd like to ask, or guests you'd like to listen to, or feedback you'd like to share, please send us a DM or an email to [email protected]

Your input will help shape our future episodes!

21/05/2024

As parents, we all face unique challenges when raising our children. If you're navigating the rewarding yet sometimes tricky journey of parenting a child with special educational needs (SEN), I understand the unique set of challenges you're facing. I’m here to listen and support you.

Do you have a specific situation or question you'd like support with? Are you looking for guidance on fostering their development, managing behaviours, or advocating for their rights?

Every child is unique, and I’m here to listen compassionately and share insights, advice, and tips that could help make this experience a bit easier for you and your family.

Send in your question by voice note to [email protected] or by DM, and I’ll discuss your topic/question on the Raising Confident Kids with SEN podcast.

I can’t wait to hear from you, and I hope I can help and support you with any tricky situations you’re facing.

20/05/2024

As we inch our way closer to the end of the school year, a lot of things will be coming to an end. But a lot of things are also on the horizon for our children, like starting at a new school or moving to a new class with a different teacher. This can be a very challenging time for so many children, as well as their parents.

To make this a less stressful time for you and your child, I will be running a free workshop on Wednesday the 12th of June at 12pm for parents of 3 - 8 year olds who would like to ease their child through this period of change and prepare them for starting in a new class or school.

To book follow the workshop link in the bio

20/05/2024

As we inch our way closer to the end of the school year, a lot of things will be coming to an end. But a lot of things are also on the horizon for our children, like starting at a new school or moving to a new class with a different teacher. This can be a very challenging time for so many children, as well as their parents.

To make this a less stressful time for you and your child, I will be running a free workshop on Wednesday the 12th of June at 12pm for parents of 3 - 8 year olds who would like to ease their child through this period of change and prepare them for starting in a new class or school.

To book follow the link https://bookwhen.com/confidentkidsco

17/05/2024

🎧✨New Podcast Episode! Preparing for the EHCP Annual Review.

Join me as I address the concerns of my client Bethany about her child’s first EHCP review, and discover how you can ensure that your child continues receiving necessary support. This episode is a must-listen for parents navigating the EHCP process.

Listen now: https://buff.ly/42ZzEDu

Photos from Confident Kids's post 16/05/2024

Our Story

Hello,

I’m Sarah, a specialist speech, language and communication needs teacher. I have been supporting children with developmental delays for many years across mainstream and specialist settings.

I have so often spoken with families who have described their challenges in finding support early on for their child's needs, their frustration at not knowing where to start or how to seek help. Perhaps they have been disappointed by long waiting times or overwhelmed with the complexities of trying to access support systems or in making sense of paperwork. Sometimes a child is accessing some really helpful provision for a few hours a week but carrying strategies home or to pre-school is proving a challenge.

Quality intervention as early as possible reaps huge rewards and that the people best placed to have the biggest impact are the people in the child's life everyday.

Videos (show all)

CKP Mobile video - BREAK 4 June  Facebook Video.mp4
Facebook Video - BREAK 21 May .mp4
Facebook Video - BREAK 21 May .mp4
Fbook Break 7 May  (Facebook Post) (1).mp4
SEN Networking and Podcast Launch Event
Quick thank you and expiation of how to rate the podcast on Spotify
Is your child waiting for an ASD / ADHD assessment ?
Is your child on an ASD / ADHD assessment waiting list?
Podcast launch party - yay or nay? If yay... what time of day?
How do I help my child when they are having an emotional outbursts?
How do I help my child when they are having an emotional outbursts?
Do you have a question or topic you would like me to cover on the new Podcast 'Raising Confident Kids with SEN' ? Drop m...

Opening Hours

Monday 09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00
Thursday 09:00 - 17:00
Friday 09:00 - 17:00