SEND in the Experts with Georgina Durrant – Supporting Families with SEND at Christmas

In this festive episode of SEND in the Experts, host Georgina Durrant speaks with Amanda Protheroe, Parent Educational Content Lead for SEND at Twinkl. Amanda draws on her experience as a class teacher, SENDCo in primary schools, and her personal journey of supporting a sibling with SEND. She shares practical advice and heartfelt insights to help families navigate the holiday season with children and young people who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

🎄 Episode highlights include:

• Amanda’s background and passion for supporting parents of children with SEND.
• What Christmas looks like in her household as a sibling of a SEND adult.
• Common festive challenges for children with SEND- including changes to routine and sensory overload.
• How parents can manage expectations and reduce pressure around creating the “perfect” Christmas.
• Practical strategies to support children with sensory sensitivities during noisy gatherings, flashing lights, and busy events.
• Preparing children for changes in routine, such as visiting relatives or attending school Christmas activities.
• Tips for supporting restricted diets and food sensitivities during festive meals.
• Alternative ways families can create meaningful traditions if they feel isolated.
• Amanda’s one piece of advice for parents heading into the festive season.

✨ This episode is packed with SEND parenting tips, Christmas survival strategies, and supportive advice for families who want to make the holidays calmer, more inclusive, and more joyful for their children.

• Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
• SEND parenting tips
• Christmas with SEND children
• Supporting families with SEND
• Sensory overload strategies
• SEND festive traditions
• Inclusive Christmas ideas

SEND parent support: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/parent-support-send-parents/home-support-parent-support-send-parents/seasonal-events-home-support-parent-support-send-parents

Parent guide to supporting autistic children at Christmas: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resource/supporting-your-autistic-child-at-christmastime-t-par-1665380754

Inclusion (SEND) resources: https://www.twinkl.co.uk/resources/inclusion-teaching-resources