The Autism Mums Podcast

In this episode of The Autism Mums Podcast, we're talking about the new school year and everything that comes with it — for our children and for us.
We share where we both are right now: one of us with a youngest starting mainstream school for the very first time, the other with one child going back to specialist school for what could be a final year and another moving into an EOTAS package that nobody can yet describe. We talk honestly about the anxiety that starts building in mid-August, the dread of going back to the phone calls and the meetings, and the guilt that can come with feeling relieved that term is finally starting again.
We also get practical. We cover uniform and sensory sensitivities, easing sleep and routine back into place, social stories and settling-in visits, what decompression can look like after school, and how to prepare for those first conversations with school.
Whatever this time of year brings up for you, we hope this one helps you feel a little less alone.
Key Takeaways
Back to school can bring anxiety, dread, relief and guilt all at once, and every one of those feelings is valid
Feeling relieved that term is starting again doesn't make you a bad parent — it means you're human
The lack of routine and support over the holidays can be as hard on families as term time is
For some children, losing routine affects their eating and sleeping, and getting back to school is exactly what they need
Going back is rarely just going back — new classrooms, new teachers and new timetables all add to the load
Sending timetables or changes home at the end of term can backfire if there's nobody available to talk them through
Uniform can be a significant sensory barrier, and seamless socks, softer fabrics and cutting out labels can all help
Wearing new uniform and shoes at home before term starts spreads the change out instead of landing it all on day one
You can ask for reasonable adjustments to uniform if it's a genuine barrier to your child's education
Shifting bedtimes gradually in the weeks before term makes the first morning less of a shock
Social stories, settling-in visits and using the school site over the holidays can make a new school feel familiar
Decompression after school matters, and it looks different for every child — movement and noise for some, quiet and solitude for others
“How was your day?” can be too big a question, and smaller, specific ones asked at the right moment often work better
Emailing school just before term starts can get meetings and support in place early, while staff are less stretched
Preparing for school meetings with notes, logs and specific examples makes it much easier to be heard
Leaving a meeting with clear next steps — who is doing what, by when, and when it will be reviewed — stops things drifting
You are doing your best under very difficult circumstances

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We're re-releasing another episode from the archives this week where we talk about the practical ways we can help our autistic children with daily life.
We’re sharing some of the things that have helped us make daily life a bit easier with our autistic children. From using timers and visual timetables to experimenting with tooth brushes and finding softer clothing.
These are ideas that have worked for us, they might help you too, or simply offer reassurance that you’re not alone on this journey.
Key Takeaways
Timers and visual supports can help ease transitions by giving your child a sense of control and predictability.
Choosing soft, seamless clothing may make a difference for children who find layers uncomfortable.
Toothbrushing challenges might be eased by trying different tools like U-shaped or triple-angled toothbrushes.
Flexibility is key - what works one day might not work the next, and that’s okay.
Planning days out in advance with visual itineraries can reduce anxiety about what's coming next.
Noise sensitivity might be supported by using ear defenders, earbuds, or listening to favourite music.
Strong smells can sometimes be managed with things like balaclavas or carrying scents like orange oil to mask overwhelming smells.
Having a sensory kit (with familiar snacks, toys, and calming tools) may offer comfort when you're out and about.
Mentioned in This Episode
Here are some of the tools and resources discussed in this episode:
Visual timers
Laminated visual timetables
Seamless/sensory-friendly clothing
U-shaped toothbrush and triple-angled toothbrush
Ear defenders
Bach's Rescue Remedy
Orange Essential Oil
Tiger balm
The Early Birds course by the National Autistic Society
Stretchy resistance bands for calming sensory feedback

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In the next of our Summer Series of The Autism Mums Podcast, we're returning to our episode where we're talking about the journey to getting an EHCP - what it is, why it matters, and what the process looked like for our families.
We’ll share the lessons we learned along the way with the hope that it helps you navigate the process and feel a little more prepared.
Key Takeaways
An EHCP can provide vital, legally binding support
You don't need a formal diagnosis to apply for an EHCP
Schools may not always initiate an EHCP request. If they don't parents can.
Timelines and deadlines are crucial - keep a track of key dates.
Support groups, SENDIASS and organisations like IPSEA can provide guidance and practical help.
The right provision can make a huge difference to your child's wellbeing.
Mentioned in This Episode
SENDIASS (Special Educational Needs and Disability Information Advice and Support Services)
IPSEA (Independent Provider of Special Education Advice) — ipsea.org.uk
EarlyBird course (National Autistic Society support programme for parents)
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In the next of our Summer Series of The Autism Mums Podcast, we're returning to our episode where we're tackling a small daily chore that can become a huge battleground — teeth, toothpaste and trips to the dentist.
Using our own stories, we explore why toothbrushing can be so difficult for autistic children: the sensory overload, the disruption of routine, strong reactions to flavors and textures, and how a wobbly tooth or a filling can turn a familiar ritual upside down.
Key Takeaways
Sensory and routine issues can be at the root of toothbrushing struggles — a wobbly tooth, change in texture, or a disrupted order of brushing can cause significant anxiety.
We've found it helpful to experiment with alternative toothbrushes (U‑shaped, three‑sided, or electric brushes) and different toothpaste flavours.
Small, staged steps and backward chaining (parent starts, child finishes) can rebuild confidence when a routine is interrupted; it may be necessary to take steps back to move forwards.
Dental professionals who slow down, explain steps, and ask permission can make appointments far less traumatic — specialist services or hospital dentists may be necessary and very helpful.

Mentioned in This Episode
Dr Barman Toothbrushes
U-Shaped Toothbrushes
Hi-Smile Toothpastes
Connect with The Autism Mums
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In the next of our Summer Series of The Autism Mums Podcast, we're returning to our episode where we're talking about how relationships can shift when your family begins navigating autism, even before a diagnosis is confirmed. As priorities change and the reality of advocating for your child sets in, friendships can evolve, strengthen, or sometimes drift apart.
Key Takeaways
Raising an autistic child can reshape your priorities and change the person you become.
How advocacy for your child can challenge social expectations and sometimes make others uncomfortable.
Friendships may evolve as your life begins to revolve around meeting your child’s needs.
Connecting with other parents of neurodivergent children can create powerful understanding and support.
Surrounding yourself with compassionate, supportive people can make the journey feel less isolating.

Connect with The Autism Mums
Website – https://theautismmums.com/
Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theautismmums
Follow us on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@theautismmums
Follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/theautismmums