Conversations with a SEND Mum

Nicole Bateman
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Welcome to 'Conversations with a SEND Mum' a podcast hosted by Nicole Bateman who is a SEND Mum herself and Co-Founder of The Super Sensory Squad. This podcast is dedicated to authentic conversations with SEND Parents—sharing the realities, challenges, and triumphs of raising children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Expect open, supportive chats that bring together the experiences and stories of parents navigating the unique world of SEND parenting. Alongside these chats, we'll have professionals in the SEND community offering practical advice and ideas as well as real life experiences from neurodivergent adults. Join us for genuine conversations with those who truly 'get it'. There'll be laughter, maybe some tears, but after tuning in, you, as a SEND parent, will feel a little less alone.

  1. AUG 13

    S4: E4: Tourette's and Autism: Nicole Bateman chats with Scott

    In this episode of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole chats with Scott, owner of Phoenix Ashes and Co, about a journey many families will recognise, years of waiting for a diagnosis while navigating life, learning, and misconceptions along the way. Scott shares openly about his son, who is close to receiving a diagnosis of Tourette’s and Autism after a four-year wait. They talk about the importance of tools for regulation, what they’ve both learnt from their children, and how understanding their kids’ brains has been life-changing. That understanding didn’t just help Scott support his children. It also helped him recognise his own neurodivergence, sparking reflection that Nicole resonates with deeply, having received her own ADHD diagnosis later in life. This is a conversation that goes beyond the stereotypes, it’s about empathy, practical strategies, and the power of connection between parent and child. Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/ Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

    25 min

  2. JUL 23

    S4: E3: Let us Learn Too and SEND Reform: Nicole Bateman chats with Hayley Harding

    In this powerful and honest conversation, Nicole sits down with Hayley Harding, co-founder of Let Us Learn Too, a grassroots parent-led campaign group fighting for the rights of disabled children in education. Together, they explore the urgent need for genuine reform within the SEND system and why lived experience must be at the heart of any meaningful change. Hayley shares her own journey as a parent navigating the system, how Let Us Learn Too began, and what the group is doing to push for a more inclusive, accountable and compassionate approach to education through the upcoming SEND white paper and reform proposals. They also dive into: What true co-production looks like and why it mattersThe emotional and practical impact of a failing system on familiesHow parents, professionals and young people can work together for changeThe importance of keeping disabled children’s rights and voices front and centre in policyHow we shift from tick-box listening to real partnershipThis episode will leave you feeling informed, inspired, and reminded that we are stronger when we push for change together. Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/ Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

    22 min

  3. JUL 9

    S4: E2: ADHD and Chronic Health Conditions: Nicole Bateman chats with Andy Horry

    In this week’s episode, Nicole Bateman is joined by Andy Horry, who was diagnosed with ADHD later in life. Together, they explore what it’s like to look back on your childhood through the lens of a diagnosis and what changes when you finally have the words to describe your experience. Andy shares:  What school was like growing up with undiagnosed ADHD The relief and reflection that came with finally understanding his brain How he regulates his nervous system now and what actually helps How ADHD interacts with his other chronic health conditionsThis is a conversation about identity, wellbeing, and the power of understanding yourself. Andy speaks openly about the emotional journey of self-discovery, the frustration of being misunderstood for so long, and the simple strategies that help him show up as his best self. If you’ve ever wondered about adult diagnosis, or how to support someone with ADHD and additional health needs, this episode will leave you feeling more informed and more connected. Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/ Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

    24 min

  4. JUL 9

    S4: E1: Nicole Bateman chats end of term transitions, parental burnout and epilepsy

    Welcome back to Conversations with a SEND Mum and to the start of Season 4. In this solo episode, host Nicole Bateman sets the tone for the season ahead with an honest, heartfelt look at what’s really going on behind the scenes as a parent of a neurodivergent child. Nicole shares her personal reflections on: The quiet exhaustion of parental burnout and why it needs more space in the conversationThe emotional impact of seizures, not just on the child, but on the whole familyThat limbo feeling of school ending and summer beginning and how to make transitions feel safer and smoother for our childrenYou’ll also get a peek at what’s coming up in Season 4: incredible guests, lived experience, practical tips, and honest conversations that help you feel less alone and more equipped. Whether you’re navigating epilepsy, anxiety, school transitions, or just trying to get through the week this episode is for you. Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/ Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

    21 min

  5. MAY 14

    S3: E11: Education and Neurodiversity: Nicole Bateman chats with Charlotte Mountford

    In this episode, I'm joined by the brilliant Charlotte Montford; educator, specialist autism support teacher, and founder of Badger Education. Charlotte shares how a volunteering experience at university sparked a lifelong passion for inclusive education, and how both her professional journey and personal experience raising neurodivergent children have shaped the work she does today. We talk openly about the emotional rollercoaster of parenting, the frustration of delayed diagnoses, and why it’s so important to recognise each child as a unique individual. Charlotte’s perspective is rooted in deep understanding, and her work is all about helping educators feel confident and supported in making a real difference. What We Cover: How Charlotte’s early experience in a special school influenced her careerWhat it’s like navigating the system both as a parent and professionalThe power (and pressure) of being an advocate when things don’t feel rightWhy Charlotte set up Badger Education and the kinds of support it offersReal talk about autism, assumptions, and the importance of truly knowing the child in front of youPractical ways educators can create more inclusive learning spacesFollow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/ Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

    27 min

  6. APR 2

    S3: E10: Autism Acceptance: Nicole Bateman chats with Tynisha from Visible Autism

    Autism Acceptance Day: Masking, Diagnosis and Visibility with Tynisha from Visible Autism in this Autism Acceptance Day special, Nicole Bateman speaks with Tynisha from Visible Autism about her lived experience as an autistic woman and her journey to self-understanding and advocacy. In This Episode: Masking and Late Diagnosis – Tynisha shares how she masked her autistic traits throughout school and the ten-year journey it took to receive her diagnosis. She reflects on how being misunderstood led to exhaustion and challenges with self-identity.University and Reasonable Adjustments – Despite having a formal diagnosis, Tynisha discusses the lack of appropriate adjustments at university, the impact this had on her education, and the wider issue of inaccessible systems.The Story Behind Visible Autism – Tynisha talks about the creation of Visible Autism, a clothing brand designed to promote neurodivergent visibility and spark conversations about the autistic experience.Documenting the Autistic Experience – A look at Tynisha’s upcoming documentary, where she shares her reality of navigating the world as an autistic person, breaking stereotypes, and advocating for acceptance over awareness.This episode is great listening for anyone wanting to understand the reality of autistic masking, the barriers to diagnosis, and why true visibility and acceptance matter. Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/ Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

    36 min

  7. MAR 26

    Purple Day 2025 Episode 2/2: Nicole Bateman chats with Kelly Norford

    Purple Day Special – Parenting Kids with Epilepsy with Kelly Norford In this Purple Day special episode of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman chats with Kelly Norford, a mum of three children with epilepsy. They discuss the unique and evolving challenges of epilepsy: from managing different seizure types to navigating the impact on mental health, learning, and daily life. In this episode, Nicole and Kelly explore:  💜 The complexities of epilepsy – how it presents differently in each of Kelly’s children and how seizure types can evolve over time  💜 Common triggers and daily challenges, including how unpredictable seizures affect routines and education  💜 The impact of epilepsy medication on mental health, cognition, and behaviour  💜 What parents wish teachers and childcare providers knew about supporting children with epilepsy  💜 The emotional and advocacy journey of raising children with complex medical needs Kelly’s insights provide a powerful, real-life perspective on the hidden impacts of epilepsy and the importance of understanding and support from the wider community. Listen now to raise awareness and be part of the conversation! Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/ Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

    31 min

  8. MAR 26

    Purple Day Special 2025 1/2: Nicole Bateman chats with Hattie Brant

    Epilepsy Awareness with Hattie Brant from Purple Dayss In this special episode of Conversations with a SEND Mum, Nicole Bateman is joined by Hattie Brant, founder of Purple Dayss, to raise awareness for Purple Day (March 26th)—a global movement dedicated to increasing understanding and reducing stigma around epilepsy. Hattie shares her personal journey of living with epilepsy and the misconceptions she’s encountered. Together, Nicole and Hattie bust common myths, discuss essential seizure first aid, and highlight the unseen impacts of epilepsy that many people don’t realize. Key Takeaways: Busting Epilepsy MythsDebunking common misconceptions, including the idea that epilepsy always involves convulsions and flashing lights.The reality of different seizure types and how epilepsy affects people beyond the physical symptoms.Seizure First Aid – What Everyone Should KnowThe do’s and don’ts when helping someone experiencing a seizure.Why it’s crucial to stay calm, time the seizure, and ensure safety rather than restraining or putting something in the person’s mouth.The Hidden Impacts of EpilepsyFatigue, memory issues, mental health challenges, and how epilepsy affects daily life beyond seizures.The importance of inclusion, understanding, and accessibility for those living with epilepsy.Resources Mentioned: Purple Dayss – Hattie’s platform raising epilepsy awareness: @PurpleDayssYoung Epilepsy: www.youngepilepsy.comSeizure First Aid Guidelines: Epilepsy SocietyFollow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit. Check out our Season 3 and 4 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/ Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

    21 min
See All (46)

Trailer

About

Welcome to 'Conversations with a SEND Mum' a podcast hosted by Nicole Bateman who is a SEND Mum herself and Co-Founder of The Super Sensory Squad. This podcast is dedicated to authentic conversations with SEND Parents—sharing the realities, challenges, and triumphs of raising children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Expect open, supportive chats that bring together the experiences and stories of parents navigating the unique world of SEND parenting. Alongside these chats, we'll have professionals in the SEND community offering practical advice and ideas as well as real life experiences from neurodivergent adults. Join us for genuine conversations with those who truly 'get it'. There'll be laughter, maybe some tears, but after tuning in, you, as a SEND parent, will feel a little less alone.

Information

  • Creator
    Nicole Bateman
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    46
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Conversations with a SEND Mum
  • Show Website
    Conversations with a SEND Mum

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