Today, I'm joined by Ravinol Chambers a filmmaker, founder of Be Inspired Films, and a fellow dad navigating life with a neuro divergent child. Together, we explore his family's journey from early challenges in mainstream school through to diagnosis overwhelm and finding the right environment where his son could thrive.
We also look at how storytelling is changing outcomes. Including, the example of his work with the NHS on Jack's story that highlights the pathway from school exclusion to prison and what happens when neurodivergent young people aren't properly understood or supported and most importantly, what we can do differently to ensure things don´t reach that point.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed navigating the system or worried about your child's future, this conversation is for you.
EPISODE REVEALS
The right school is less about labels and more about fit - small classes, quiet spaces, trained staff, and peers who feel like your child’s tribe.
Visual supports like Widget’s symbol language and social stories can turn overwhelming days into predictable narratives children can understand and rehearse.
Regulation starts with us; pausing to breathe, stepping back and steadying our own nervous system lets us lend that calm to our children when they’re in crisis.
BEST MOMENTS
"When you're going through stuff, it's so hard, but looking back, you realise that it's also a gift."
"If you're regulated, you can almost lend them your nervous system."
"Love your child, love yourself, support each other, do your best to learn. Grow and expand yourself to be a bigger and more stable container for your child ."
GUEST RESOURCES
https://www.beinspiredfilms.co.uk/
Email:
[email protected]Jack's story - https://vimeo.com/1084303873/c7f6bf2d52 - An animation created for the NHS to educate teachers and police officers to better support neurodivergent young people. It is designed to break the exclusion to prison pathway.
Bertie's Day Out - https://vimeo.com/1134188093/ccddbd14b0 - A brand film created to show the positive impact of Widgit symbols on the lives of individuals with communication challenges.
It follows the story of Bertie who has autism and his mum and grandmother having a great day out at the Zoo, the day that almost never was.
Widgit Symbols - https://www.widgit.com
RESOURCES
Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw
CLIFF´S SERVICES
Are you struggling with anxiety and want support from someone who has been there and come out the other side? - Message Cliff here and take advantage of his founding members offer: https://m.me/cliff.kilmister
Are you feeling overwhelmed with EHCP paperwork or are you stuck? Cliff, who has personally been through the process offers body-doubling and step-by-step support. You can contact him here - https://m.me/cliff.kilmister
CONTACT ME
Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister
X - @KilmisterCliff
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD
HOST BIO
Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
New Zealand