In this episode of the "Curious About Nature" podcast, host Rachel Mills converses with Nicole Bateman, a SEND consultant and advocate for children's sensory needs. They delve into the importance of understanding sensory processing, especially for neurodivergent children. Nicole shares her personal journey and insights on creating resources to help children manage their sensory experiences. The discussion covers practical tips for parents, the benefits of outdoor activities, and Nicole's upcoming initiatives, including a SEND conference and new podcast season.

Nicole Bateman:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesupersensorysquad

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

Websites: https://www.thesupersensorysquad.com/

https://aboxfullofjoyuk.co.uk/

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

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Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode

Nicole's Background (00:01:14)

Nicole shares her journey from teaching to creating resources for children with sensory processing differences.

Creating Resources for Children (00:02:54)

Nicole discusses her businesses, "A Box Full of Joy" and "Super Sensory Squad," aimed at helping children express emotions.

Importance of Understanding Sensory Needs (00:03:18)

Rachel shares her personal experience with her daughter's sensory processing differences and the positive changes observed.

Evolving Business Focus (00:04:03)

Nicole explains how her focus has shifted towards sensory regulation and emotional needs in her businesses.

Building Resilience in Children (00:06:10)

Nicole emphasises the importance of creating a safe environment for children to build resilience.

Identifying Sensory Processing Differences (00:06:55)

Nicole provides insights on how to recognise sensory processing differences in children.

Super Sensory Squad Overview (00:09:02)

Nicole describes the Super Sensory Squad programme and its benefits for children and parents.

Impact of Super Sensory Squad (00:09:47)

Rachel shares how the Super Sensory Squad has improved her family's understanding of sensory preferences.

Using Nature for Sensory Exploration (00:15:01)

Nicole discusses the benefits of outdoor activities for sensory exploration and regulation.

Evening Routines and Sensory Needs (00:17:00)

Rachel shares her family's evening routine that incorporates nature walks to help her daughter relax.

Calming Techniques for Children (00:18:44)

Nicole suggests ways to support children’s sensory needs at home by integrating their interests.

Upcoming SEND Conference (00:20:31)

Nicole announces the Adapt and Include SEND conference, aimed at supporting children's activity providers.

Future Plans for Super Sensory Squad (00:22:29)

Nicole discusses her upcoming conference and aspirations for teacher training to support neurodivergent...