Pooky Ponders – Big Questions with Brilliant People

Dr Pooky Knightsmith

Informal but informative.... Dr Pooky Knightsmith explores questions related to mental health and special needs. Sometimes it's deep, sometimes it's funny, it will always make you think...

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What Practical Tools Can Help Children Master Assertiveness?
Yesterday
What Practical Tools Can Help Children Master Assertiveness?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I delve into the world of assertiveness and share a treasure trove of practical tools to help children master this crucial skill. From role-playing activities that bring scenarios to life, to the powerful "I Statements" technique that fosters effective communication, I explore a toolkit designed to enhance kids' assertiveness.  We'll also uncover the significance of body language in assertive interactions and how self-advocacy and conflict resolution skills empower children to stand up for themselves.  CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:•               Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyh•               Newsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmith•               Website: https://www.pookyknightsmith.com•               YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyh•               TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmith•               Twitter: https://twitter.com/pookyh•               Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealth•               LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/•               Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.com•               Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
What Practical Tools Can Help Children Master Assertiveness?
Yesterday
What Practical Tools Can Help Children Master Assertiveness?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I delve into the world of assertiveness and share a treasure trove of practical tools to help children master this crucial skill. From role-playing activities that bring scenarios to life, to the powerful "I Statements" technique that fosters effective communication, I explore a toolkit designed to enhance kids' assertiveness.  We'll also uncover the significance of body language in assertive interactions and how self-advocacy and conflict resolution skills empower children to stand up for themselves.  CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:•               Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyh•               Newsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmith•               Website: https://www.pookyknightsmith.com•               YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyh•               TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmith•               Twitter: https://twitter.com/pookyh•               Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealth•               LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/•               Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.com•               Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
Could Understanding Kids' Needs Transform Behaviour?
Sep 26 2023
Could Understanding Kids' Needs Transform Behaviour?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I delve into the fascinating world of children's behaviour. Discover why it's crucial to look beyond surface labels and understand the deeper emotions driving their actions. Join me as I explore the profound impact of our responses on a child's sense of safety and self-worth.  By the end of this episode, you'll gain valuable insights into how compassion and curiosity can transform your approach to children's behaviour, making their world a little brighter and safer.  CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:•               Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyh•               Newsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmith•               Website: https://www.pookyknightsmith.com•               YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyh•               TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmith•               Twitter: https://twitter.com/pookyh•               Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealth•               LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/•               Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.com•               Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
How Can We Empower Neurodivergent Students with Effective Homework and Study Strategies?
Sep 19 2023
How Can We Empower Neurodivergent Students with Effective Homework and Study Strategies?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I delve into empowering neurodivergent students with effective homework and study strategies. I guide you through embracing neurodiversity, providing clear instructions, and cultivating supportive learning environments.We also explore empowering self-advocacy, goal setting, task management, and self-regulation skills. Plus, I share tips on recognising students' strengths and nurturing their holistic success.  CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:•               Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyh•               Newsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmith•               Website: https://www.pookyknightsmith.com•               YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyh•               TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmith•               Twitter: https://twitter.com/pookyh•               Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealth•               LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/•               Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.com•               Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
How Can We Help Children Express Their Anger in a Healthy Way?
Sep 12 2023
How Can We Help Children Express Their Anger in a Healthy Way?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, we delve into the crucial topic of helping children express their anger constructively. Join me as I explore the importance of recognising anger, providing safe outlets, modelling healthy expression, and nurturing problem-solving skills. Discover valuable insights and practical strategies to support the emotional well-being of the children and young people in your care. CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:•               Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyh•               Newsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmith•               Website: https://www.pookyknightsmith.com•               YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyh•               TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmith•               Twitter: https://twitter.com/pookyh•               Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealth•               LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/•               Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.com•               Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
How can we help children to make friends and find their tribe?
Sep 5 2023
How can we help children to make friends and find their tribe?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore how we can help children to make friends that feel good and build a little tribe where they belong.  The ideas work well for adults too.  I hope it’s helpful. CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:•               Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyh•               Newsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmith•               Website: https://www.pookyknightsmith.com•               YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyh•               TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmith•               Twitter: https://twitter.com/pookyh•               Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealth•               LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/•               Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.com•               Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
How Can We Get Physically Active When Motivation Is Low?
Aug 29 2023
How Can We Get Physically Active When Motivation Is Low?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore simple suggestions to enable us to get active.  Being physically active is well proven to boost mood, but when we most need this boost are the times when it’s hardest to motivate ourselves.  These ideas should help and can be used either for yourself or to support a colleague or child.CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:•               Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyh•               Newsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmith•               Website: https://www.pookyknightsmith.com•               YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyh•               TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmith•               Twitter: https://twitter.com/pookyh•               Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealth•               LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/•               Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.com•               Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
How Can We Maintain a Close Relationship With a Child Who is Emotionally Distant?
Aug 22 2023
How Can We Maintain a Close Relationship With a Child Who is Emotionally Distant?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore how we can maintain a positive, loving, supportive relationship with a child who becomes emotionally distant or pushes us away.    CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:•               Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyh•               Newsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmith•               Website: https://www.pookyknightsmith.com•               YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyh•               TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmith•               Twitter: https://twitter.com/pookyh•               Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealth•               LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/•               Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
How to Take the Conversation Deeper
Aug 1 2023
How to Take the Conversation Deeper
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore some simple phrases for taking conversations deeper.  These simple prompts can make a real difference whether you're supporting a child or an adult.  CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
Should We Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway?
Jul 25 2023
Should We Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore whether we should always try to be bold and brave or whether sometimes it's simply okay to say no... CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
How Can Finding Our Flow State Help with Anxiety or Overwhelm?
Jul 18 2023
How Can Finding Our Flow State Help with Anxiety or Overwhelm?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore what flow is, how it can help with anxiety, low mood or overwhelm and how we can find our way to flow, or support a child to.  CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
How Should We Be Talking About Children Who Are Struggling?
Jul 11 2023
How Should We Be Talking About Children Who Are Struggling?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore the power of language and how fairly simple changes to the way we talk about children can make a big change to how we think about and subsequently behave towards children. CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
What's the deal with hoodies? Should we be encouraging them?
Jul 4 2023
What's the deal with hoodies? Should we be encouraging them?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore why some children seem to feel happier with their hoods up and whether this is something we should be more supportive of.CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
Using Transition Activities to Move Between Activities, Places or People
Jun 27 2023
Using Transition Activities to Move Between Activities, Places or People
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore a range of activities to support the transition from one activity, place or person to another.  For example, calming things down when moving from break time to lesson time or school to home.  Recorded with neurodivergent children front and centre in my mind, these activities can work for a wide range of children - and adults too; I use most of them myself. CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
Supporting Your Child to Embrace Their New Neurodivergent Diagnosis
Jun 20 2023
Supporting Your Child to Embrace Their New Neurodivergent Diagnosis
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore what happens next when we learn that a child is neurodivergent.  What sort of conversations can we have with them to help them better understand themselves and the world and their place within it.  How can we keep things positive and just how much do they need to know? CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
What is Co-Regulation and How Do I Get it Right?
Jun 13 2023
What is Co-Regulation and How Do I Get it Right?
In this episode of Pooky Ponders, I explore what co-regulation is and six steps that adults can take to support the emotional regulation of children who are angry, anxious or otherwise distressed or overwhelmed. CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
What To Do If Your Child Is Being Bullied
Jun 6 2023
What To Do If Your Child Is Being Bullied
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore steps you can take to support a child if they're being bullied.  CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
How Can We Support Children With Separation Anxiety?
May 30 2023
How Can We Support Children With Separation Anxiety?
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore strategies for supporting children who are struggling with separation anxiety.  I also explore the need to recognise the difference between issues with leaving a parent/carer and issues going to the environment they're being left because if we don't identify the correct issue we can unwittingly do more harm than good...CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
How to Make Tasks feel More Manageable for Autistic/ADHD Children
May 23 2023
How to Make Tasks feel More Manageable for Autistic/ADHD Children
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore a range of ideas to make tasks feel more manageable and less overwhelming.  Especially helpful for anyone who struggles with executive function including children/adults who are autistic/ADHD -You can download a copy of a planning template I developed to support with classwork / homeowner here. -***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.*** CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
Using a Comfort Audit to Better Meet Children's Sensory Needs
May 16 2023
Using a Comfort Audit to Better Meet Children's Sensory Needs
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore simple steps you can take to understand how your classroom or other space might feel for a child with sensory processing differences so that you can take proactive steps to make the space less overwhelming. --CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***
Finding What Feels Safe - A Gentle Approach to Tackling Anxiety
May 9 2023
Finding What Feels Safe - A Gentle Approach to Tackling Anxiety
In this episode of the Pooky Ponders Podcast, I explore gentle ways of preventing our world from shrinking when anxiety looms.  Simple ideas that can be used by adults or children and which might feel like a more possible starting point for some than graded exposure or anxiety ladders.You might like this resource I allude to, to use alongside: DOWNLOAD: Anxiety – Feeling Safe Activity—***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.*** CONNECTYou can find me in the following places:Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/pookyhTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pookyknightsmithTwitter: https://twitter.com/pookyhFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/PookyKnightsmithMentalHealthLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pooky/Podcast: https://pookyh.buzzsprout.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/pookyhYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/pookyhWebsite: https://www.pookyknightsmith.comNewsletter: https://substack.com/profile/94569808-pooky-knightsmithSupport the show***If you’d like to support my work, you can do so by sharing my resources; by joining me on Patreon for £1 a month or by inviting me to speak at your setting or event.***