J, an 8-year-old boy in primary school, was struggling with severely dysregulated behaviours. His family life was deeply affected by his parents' substance abuse problems, leading to a chaotic and unstable home environment. Social services were actively involved, but the turmoil at home was visibly impacting J's behaviour and emotional well-being at school.

At Keane Futures, an alternative provision specialising in re-engaging young people and reigniting their passion for learning and self-belief, we frequently encounter behaviours that challenge traditional frameworks. These behaviours have often been labelled as "problems" needing correction. However, a deeper look reveals these aren't simply behavioural issues, but rather sophisticated coping mechanisms developed in response to trauma. By reframing our perspective, we can more effectively support these children and empower their healing journey.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that manifests in diverse ways, yet many children and young people remain undiagnosed, navigating life without the clarity and support that a diagnosis can provide. In this blog post, we'll explore the phenomenon of undiagnosed autism, shedding light on its prevalence, challenges, and the importance of recognition and acceptance.

Nicola Morgan's book "Blame My Brain" offers invaluable insights into the complex world of teenage behaviour, exploring the physiological, neurological, and chemical changes that occur during adolescence. In this blog post, we'll delve into the key points raised by Morgan and examine how these changes impact teenagers' behaviours and emotions.

Parenting is a journey filled with moments of joy, challenges, and growth, especially when it comes to helping children and teenagers navigate their emotions. Emotional regulation is a critical skill that enables young people to manage their feelings effectively, fostering resilience and well-being. In this guide, we'll explore techniques for parents to support emotional regulation in their children and teens, encompassing a range of ages and developmental stages.

In the realm of education, ensuring that every child has access to the support they need to thrive is paramount. For students with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), Education Health Care Plans (EHCPs) play a crucial role in providing tailored support and resources to help them reach their full potential. Let's delve into what EHCPs are, how they work, and their significance in ensuring inclusive education for all.

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, innovative approaches continually emerge to enhance the learning journey for young minds. One such profound avenue is the integration of animal care into educational settings. Beyond traditional academics, nurturing animals can profoundly impact the social, emotional, and mental well-being of young people, fostering empathy, responsibility, and resilience.

In an age where traditional education methods often fall short in engaging students, thematic learning emerges as a powerful approach to rekindle young people's passion for learning. By integrating various subjects around a central theme, this method offers a holistic, engaging, and relevant educational experience. Here’s why thematic learning can transform the educational journey for disengaged students.

The Department for Education (DfE) has recently initiated a consultation aimed at enhancing the protections for children in unregistered alternative provision settings. This move is in response to growing concerns about the safety and quality of education in these environments. The consultation seeks to gather views on proposals to introduce new, light-touch quality assurance frameworks underpinned by national standards.

School refusal, or emotionally-based school avoidance (EBSA), among children and teenagers has become an increasingly concerning issue, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding the underlying reasons can help parents and carers provide and seek the necessary support to address this challenge effectively.

Emotional masking stands out as a significant yet often overlooked issue, especially within the context of neurodiversity. Emotional masking refers to the practice of hiding one's true emotions and presenting a socially acceptable façade.