“Stop.” “No.” “Don’t do that.” These are some of the most familiar phrases used in classrooms, homes, and therapeutic spaces. They are quick, instinctive, and often spoken with urgency. Yet, in my experience as a psychologist working with children and young people—particularly those who are neurodivergent or have experienced trauma—these responses rarely bring the outcomeContinue reading “Beyond “No”: Supporting Behaviour Through Safety, Connection, and Understanding”
Tag Archives: STEM Education
Why FlourishEd Approaches Matter for Adults Returning to Learning—Especially After Negative School Experiences
When adults choose to return to education, it’s rarely a simple academic decision. For many, it’s deeply emotional. It’s about revisiting a place that didn’t feel safe, stepping back into environments that once damaged confidence, or confronting old stories of “not being good enough.” And these stories run deep. Adult learners often carry decades ofContinue reading “Why FlourishEd Approaches Matter for Adults Returning to Learning—Especially After Negative School Experiences”
The Soothing Power of Sensation: Why Early Sensory Experiences Matter for Babies’ Development
When you watch a baby reach for the grass beneath them, wiggle their toes in soft sand, or splash joyfully in water, you’re witnessing something profound. These simple, natural moments aren’t just adorable—they are crucial developmental experiences. As a psychologist who works with early childhood development, I often speak with parents and early years practitionersContinue reading “The Soothing Power of Sensation: Why Early Sensory Experiences Matter for Babies’ Development”
Learning Theory and Early Childhood Development: A Critical Analysis of Practice
The early years of life represent a critical developmental window, where the foundations for future learning, behaviour, and well-being are established. Early childhood education (ECE) must therefore be underpinned by theoretical knowledge that informs pedagogical decision-making and supports educators in meeting complex developmental needs. However, the use of theory in practice is not a matterContinue reading “Learning Theory and Early Childhood Development: A Critical Analysis of Practice”
The Power of Resilient Women: Shaping Work, Home, and Society
Introduction International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of women in every aspect of life. Whether in the workforce, at home, or in politics, women have consistently shown remarkable determination in overcoming adversity, challenging societal norms, and driving progress. Throughout history, resilient women have paved the way for change,Continue reading “The Power of Resilient Women: Shaping Work, Home, and Society”
Investing in the future : Sustainability in Early Years.
As a green early years school we nurture sustainability daily through our emergent curriculum under the Aistear learning through play Framework. Creating communities of practice with our children, families, subject matter experts – artists, gardeners, film makers, environmental experts have all been part of our wonderful journey over the last 12 years. Gardening, mud kitchens,Continue reading “Investing in the future : Sustainability in Early Years.”
Collaborative Partnerships: Supporting Parents to Enhance the Language of STEAM
As a Parent of three not-so-small boys anymore, it has always been my mission to instill confidence, resilience, and self-confidence in my children. Looking back I have to say I think I managed this successfully, but not without some hurdles and some help along the way. These three are young men now, and successful youngContinue reading “Collaborative Partnerships: Supporting Parents to Enhance the Language of STEAM”
Dr M’s thoughts 