For many Year 6 pupils, May doesn't just bring the promise of summer — it brings the worry of SATs. While a small amount of positive stress can be a motivator,…
By talking to children about mental health and neurodiversity, we can help them understand and accept themselves for who they are, and give them the tools…
Educationalist Alis Rocca looks back at 2 years of hosting Nip in the Bud’s Children’s Mental Health podcast and some of the key themes that keep coming…
Published: 21st Sep 2025
Updated: 31st May 2026
Nip in the Bud
Here we discuss the risk factors for children developing Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and how to recognise the symptoms - along with…
This article was posted at the height of the Covid pandemic but still has useful tips for helping children cope with the anxiety that global health events…
Developing the inclusivity of vulnerable children by using the word ‘underserved’ rather than ‘disadvantaged’, bringing the onus of change on adults in…
This article explores Olive Austin’s teaching journey and her belief in play as essential to early childhood development. Through a conversation with her…
On one side, a child who appears calm and compliant. On the other, the pressure of a day spent hiding how much they are struggling — a pressure that can,…
Andy Tolly discusses navigating autism, ADHD, and the 'cliff edge' of secondary school. Learn how the new SEND White Paper and National Inclusion Standards…
Human connection strengthens mental health. It is the golden thread weaving through every experience; it is the fundamental element that helps to foster…
Discover how yoga supports children’s mental health through movement, breath and nature. Learn simple poses, mindfulness tips and ways to build calm, confidence…
Discover why resilience skills matter for children’s mental health, how they help manage anxiety and stress, and practical ways to build emotional strength…
Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) is the main type of Conduct Disorder in children aged ten years and under. It is characterised by repetitive and persistent…
Learn how to recognise ADHD in children, understand key symptoms like inattention and impulsivity, and find practical ways for parents and teachers to…
Worried about back-to-school anxiety? Learn the signs to watch for, understand your child’s fears, and discover practical ways to support a smoother return…
Home learning can be challenging for children and parents alike. This piece shares five supportive ways to protect your child’s mental health — from listening…
Eating disorders can affect even very young children, often long before weight changes appear. This piece explores early behavioural signs, the risks for…
Parents supporting a child with mental health difficulties also need care and understanding. This piece explores practical ways to look after your own…
Trauma affects children in many different ways, and it’s their experience-not the event itself-that determines the impact. This piece explores common signs…
Explore the difference between equality and equity in schools, with insights from our podcast conversation on celebrating diversity. This piece shows how…
OCD can significantly disrupt a child’s daily life, but there are practical ways to help. This piece explores five supportive strategies for managing OCD…
Explore what true inclusion means for neurodiverse and mentally diverse children. This piece looks at the barriers young people face, the impact of mental…
Following our podcast conversation with Tier Blundell, this piece shares how unrecognised ADHD and racism led to his school exclusion, and how he went…
Following our podcast conversation with father of seven, Scott Mair, this piece explores his family’s journey through bullying, supporting neurodivergent…
Practical ideas for talking to your child about their feelings, building trust, and creating safe, calm spaces for honest conversations about mental h…
Michael Charles runs a Dads Group for parents of children with additional needs. He reflects on the challenges fathers face, the value of shared experience,…
This article explores how we talk about autism, why early understanding matters, and how to support autistic children with their strengths and challenges.…
This article explores common myths about OCD and replaces them with clear, accurate facts. It explains what OCD really is, how it affects children and…
This article summarises the key points from our podcast episode with Lauren Whitaker, exploring how teachers and parents can celebrate diversity and support…
Discover the importance of early intervention through Jon’s powerful story of an adult autism diagnosis. Learn how missed support in childhood can shape…
Explore how early empathy and open communication shape children’s long‑term emotional wellbeing. Learn why listening to small problems builds trust, strengthens…
Learn how early intervention and emotional literacy can change children’s outcomes, inspired by themes in “Adolescence.” Explore why family connection,…
Discover how community strengthens children’s mental wellbeing, gaining insights from our podcast conversations with experts working with young refugees.…
Discover easy breathing techniques that help children reduce anxiety, calm their bodies and regain focus. Learn belly breathing, bubble breathing, finger…
Learn what CAMHS is, how it supports children and young people with their mental health, and the different ways to access help in your local area. Find…
Explore PDA through Steph’s experience supporting her daughter, Sasha. Learn why some autistic children show extreme demand avoidance, how flexible approaches…
Did you know that the number four represents solidity and balance? And if we were celebrating our wedding anniversary, we’d be donning silk? But, in fact,…
Published: 22nd Nov 2021
Updated: 25th Feb 2026
Nip in the Bud
By creating safe spaces where children, teachers and parents can listen to each other, we can show young people that learning isn’t just about the curriculum…
Discover practical, low‑pressure ways to support healthier eating in children. Learn how routines, involvement, and a positive food environment build confidence…
Remembering co‑founder Daniel Nabarro, whose vision and creativity shaped Nip in the Bud. A tribute to his life, legacy, and dedication to children’s mental…
Published: 18th May 2021
Updated: 18th Feb 2026 Kitty Nabarro
Explore how reading reduces stress in children, boosts wellbeing, and creates safe spaces to talk about feelings. Discover expert‑recommended books that…
Learn the signs a child may need mental health support, how to talk to them, and when to seek professional help. Practical guidance for parents and ca…
Teacher and educationist, Alis Rocca looks at the impact of school bullying on children and young people and shares insights from our conversations with…
Children experiencing loneliness or secrecy around their emotions may turn to harmful coping strategies. By creating openness and safety, adults can help…
A reflection on our conversation about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) in children and young people with consultant…
Verbal abuse leaves no visible bruises but can deeply damage a child's sense of self. Learn why it's so hard to talk about, and why breaking the silence…
If everyone is educated to spot and understand what bullying is and to feel clear about the different ways to get help that are available, bullying is…
It's no secret that bullying can affect mental health in children. But did you know that the effect of bullying can lead to long-term conditions such as…
Practical advice for parents on talking to children about breast cancer, including tips for supporting children with mental health conditions or learning…
Reading this you might be a partway into the summer break. Weather might be a mixed bag, and devices might have run out of charge mid scroll.
I’m Charlotte…
The current levels of absences suggest that school is a challenging environment for many children; rather than focusing on attendance for its own sake,…
In this digital age, staying safe online is a priority for anyone who has access to an internet-enabled device. It’s particularly critical for parents…
By providing young people with the tools to manage their stress, we can encourage them to take action themselves before they reach the point of feeling…
Depression in children affects around 2.8% of people under the age of 13 and 5.6% of 13-18-year-olds. An estimated 20% of people will have had one depressive…
Neurodiversity can affect people in different ways from childhood right through to adulthood. **Sarah Nabarro** shares her own experience of being Neurodivergent…
Explore the many reasons children may struggle to engage at school, from sensory overwhelm and neurodivergent needs to anxiety, bullying and life stresses.…
This article highlights family activities that boost wellbeing and support mental health. Enjoy outdoor fun with a bike ride, garden treasure hunt, or…
Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) is a lifelong developmental difference that influences how a child communicates, interacts, and experiences the world.…
Neurodiversity is a concept that aims to recognise and celebrate neurological differences in the same way as other variations in humans. For example, some…
This article summarises the Nip in the Bud Podcast on how to move towards a smartphone free childhood and focuses on the pressures felt by children, parents…
Autism spectrum condition (ASC) in children is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a child communicates, interacts, and learns. It's characterized…
For young children, grief can be especially confusing, and every child reacts differently. It’s important that we, as teachers and professionals, create…
The hidden disabilities sunflower is a symbol that you or your child can wear to let people know you have a disability which might not be immediately obvious…
A Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) is a qualified teacher within a school who is responsible for overseeing provision for students with special…
Dyslexia is a difference in how the brain processes language - and it affects a lot more than reading and writing. We help you understand what dyslexia…
Worry boxes are containers where children can place their anxious thoughts. They can be comforting because they provide a tangible way to let go of worries,…
This article summarizes the Nip in the Bud Podcast on Neurodiversity, the brain, child development, behaviour, setting boundaries, mental skills. Neurodiversity…