Introduction

As a parent of a neurodivergent child and a therapeutic art specialist working with children who struggle with:

• Overwhelm• Anxiety

• Sensory processing disorder

• Low self-esteem

I witness daily the glaring gaps in the UK education system. While the system may be well-meaning, it remains unfit to educate children with additional needs, especially those who are neurodivergent.

An Unfit System

Schools are designed for neurotypical children, and that leaves many neurodivergent children misunderstood. For these kids, the standard school environment is not a safe haven—it can feel overwhelming, punishing, and even traumatic. I see this in my own child and the children I work with.

Sensory Overload and Conformity

For neurodivergent children, everyday sensory stimuli like:

• Scratchy uniforms

• Chairs scraping the floor

• Bright classroom lights

can lead to sensory meltdowns. Yet, schools often focus more on conformity than addressing these basic needs. How can a child focus on learning when they’re constantly distracted by discomfort?

The Stigma of Labels

Children who experience the world differently are often labelled as ‘disruptive’ or ‘troublemakers.’ I see this all the time—children are misunderstood because teachers lack the specialist training needed to recognise behaviours linked to neurodivergence. Instead of being supported, they’re unfairly punished.

Sensory Processing Overwhelm

One of the most misunderstood aspects of neurodivergence is sensory processing. School corridors, noisy and bustling with children, can feel like sensory overload for those with sensory processing disorders. These children are not just overwhelmed—they’re battling a constant storm of sights, sounds, and sensations that feel unbearable. Yet, sensory-friendly spaces and breaks are rarely available to help them cope.

The Harm of Rigid Rules

Schools prize uniformity and rules over children’s well-being. It’s disheartening to see that children are praised for perfect attendance and following strict rules, while those struggling with anxiety or sensory overload are seen as failures. The rigid focus on appearances strips away individuality and self-expression, making children feel like they don’t belong.

The Rise of School Refusal

Children don’t refuse to go to school for no reason. They refuse because they are anxious, overwhelmed, and struggling in an environment that doesn’t support them. Instead of asking why these children are refusing, schools focus on penalising parents. But what if, instead, we asked how we can create an environment where these children feel safe enough to thrive?

Embracing Technology and Innovation

Schools are stuck in the past, banning technology that could be an incredible resource for neurodivergent learners. Why not embrace modern tools? Why aren’t we using apps to help children with ADHD stay organised or sensory regulation tools for those who need it? Instead, schools insist on control and conformity, missing the potential technology offers.

What Needs to Change

1. Specialist Training for Teachers: Every teacher needs training in neurodiversity to understand and support neurodivergent children.

2. Flexible Learning Environments: Schools should offer sensory-friendly spaces where children can decompress.

3. Personalised Support Plans: Every neurodivergent child should have a support plan that addresses their individual needs, including sensory breaks or access to technology.

4. Self-Expression: Children should be allowed to express themselves in ways that make them feel safe and comfortable, whether through clothing or accessories.

5. Embracing Technology: Let’s teach children how to use technology like smartphones and AI to support their learning.

6. Focus on Well-Being Over Rules: Children’s mental health and well-being should be prioritised over rigid rules about attendance and appearance.

The Way Forward

The education system needs to evolve. If we continue ignoring these children, they’ll keep walking away from a system that isn’t working for them. I know, from both personal and professional experience, that children don’t refuse school for no reason—they refuse because the system is failing them. It’s time we listened and acted.

Join Us

For parents seeking support, join our private Facebook group: The Therapeutic Couch. We would love to welcome you.

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