Six Years Since Sepsis: The Day That Changed Everything

Six years ago today, my life changed forever. I had sepsis, a condition I understood clinically as a healthcare professional, yet when it was happening to me, I didn’t recognise the signs. As a podiatrist, I felt I should have known what was happening to my own body. But by the time I was experiencing the full-blown symptoms, sepsis was already affecting my cognitive function.

I’ve spent years reflecting on this—on the guilt and inadequacy I felt for not realising what was happening sooner. But the truth is, even medical professionals aren’t immune to the limitations of their own bodies. Sepsis is fast, aggressive, and unpredictable, and once it takes hold, it clouds everything.

At the time, I was just 15 minutes away from not surviving. And while I am still here, I haven’t been the same since.

Post-Sepsis Syndrome: A Battle That Didn’t End in the Hospital

Most people think of sepsis as something you either survive or you don’t. But what isn’t talked about enough is Post-Sepsis Syndrome (PSS)—a condition with lingering effects that mimic Long COVID. It causes:

• Chronic fatigue – No amount of rest makes it better.

• Brain fog – Memory lapses, trouble concentrating, struggling to find words.

• Pain – Aching joints, muscle weakness, a body that feels constantly drained.

• Mental health struggles – Anxiety, depression, and PTSD from the trauma of nearly dying.

Physically, I have never fully recovered. My energy levels are unpredictable, and there are days when even the simplest tasks feel impossible. Emotionally, the trauma of being so close to death lingers. The fear, the flashbacks, the sense of helplessness—it never fully goes away.

Then Came Amelia: The Hardest and Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me

When I found out I was pregnant with Amelia, I already knew my body wasn’t the same as before. I worried about how I would manage pregnancy after everything I had been through. But nothing could have prepared me for what was to come.

Amelia was born prematurely, and suddenly, I wasn’t just fighting for my own health—I was fighting for hers too. The NICU was a whole new kind of battle. Watching my tiny baby struggle to survive brought back all my trauma from sepsis—the hospital environment, the waiting, the not knowing what would happen next. But this time, I wasn’t the patient. I was a mother.

Bringing her home didn’t mean the challenges ended. Post-Sepsis Syndrome doesn’t pause for parenthood. There were days I felt like I was failing because my body just wouldn’t cooperate. Some days, I had to choose between playing with Amelia or making dinner because I didn’t have the energy for both.

And yet, through it all, I wouldn’t change a thing. Amelia is my miracle. She gave me a purpose beyond my own struggles.

Ryan: The One Who Holds Me Together

As much as Amelia is the best thing to ever happen to me, Ryan is truly incredible. I sometimes wish he had met me before sepsis, before the trauma, before I became the person who struggles so much with pain and fatigue. But at the same time, I know he loves this version of me—flaws, struggles, and all.

There’s one moment I will never forget. During the pandemic, I had the worst flashback I have ever experienced. For three hours, I was inconsolable, trapped in a state of absolute panic and terror. My body felt like it was back in that hospital, like I was dying all over again. I was alone, spiraling, unable to pull myself out of it.

Then Ryan came home from work. He found me on the bed, shaking, gasping, stuck in a massive panic attack. And he just held me. He didn’t try to fix it, he didn’t tell me to stop crying—he just stayed there, wrapping me in his arms, until it was over.

That moment, more than anything, showed me what love truly is. He has seen me at my absolute worst, and he still chooses to stay. He still chooses me.

Living with Post-Sepsis Syndrome as a Parent and a Partner

Parenting is exhausting under normal circumstances. Parenting with Post-Sepsis Syndrome is something else entirely.

• The fatigue is relentless. There’s no break, no way to “catch up” on energy.

• Brain fog makes simple tasks harder. I forget things mid-sentence, struggle with focus, and sometimes feel like a shadow of my former self.

• The pain is unpredictable. Some days, it’s a dull ache. Other days, it feels like my body is screaming at me.

• PTSD still lurks in the background. The trauma of sepsis mixed with the fear I felt for Amelia has shaped so much of my life.

And yet, through all of this, I keep going. Because I have Amelia. And I have Ryan.

What I’ve Learned in Six Years

Surviving isn’t the same as healing. I’ve had to learn to accept my new reality, to let go of the guilt I felt for not recognising my own sepsis, and to be kinder to myself as I navigate life with these challenges.

Amelia has given me the strength to keep fighting. And Ryan has given me the safe place to land when I can’t fight anymore.

If you’ve survived sepsis, Long COVID, or any condition that changed your life, I want you to know:

You are not failing. You are not weak. You are doing the best you can.

Let’s Start a Conversation

If you’ve experienced sepsis, post-sepsis syndrome, or any chronic illness that changed your life, I’d love to hear your story. Let’s talk about it—because raising awareness can make all the difference.

Like, comment, or share this post to help others who might be struggling in silence.

Together, we are stronger.

What Do You Need a Break From? Because I Need a Break From This Morning…

Some mornings just hit differently. Today was one of those mornings where I could feel the universe laughing at me before 7:30 AM.

It started out as any normal day. I got up, sorted out Amelia’s breakfast, and went to change her nappy. Simple enough, right? Except, midway through, my stomach decided it had other plans. And let me tell you, there was no waiting.

One of the things I don’t talk about enough is that I have incontinence—something that’s been a struggle since having Amelia. It’s one of those things that people don’t really mention, but it’s a reality for so many of us, especially after pregnancy, birth trauma, and neurodiversity-related sensory issues.

So, this morning, my body just… didn’t cooperate. I shit myself. Full-on, no warning, just chaos. There was no chance of making it to the toilet in time, and I had to abandon all dignity and jump in the shower. Meanwhile, Amelia decided she also needed to be involved—trying to get into the shower while it was, well, definitely not a place for a toddler at that moment.

By the time I got myself sorted, I put Amelia in her highchair, thinking that maybe—just maybe—I could get a minute to breathe. But no. Because the moment her breakfast was in front of her, she looked me dead in the eyes and launched it across the room. The floor, the sofa, her clothes—completely covered in cereal.

At that point, I just stood there, staring at the destruction, feeling that overwhelming need to cry. I just needed a little bit of time. A moment to breathe, to process, to not feel like everything was spiraling out of control before 8 AM.

Incontinence and the Realities of Parenting

I don’t think we talk about incontinence enough—how common it is, how isolating it can feel, and how much it impacts daily life. I’ve learned to adapt, to manage, to carry on. But mornings like today? They remind me that my body doesn’t always play by my rules.

And when you’re a parent, there’s no pause button. No “I need a minute.” It’s just survive, clean up, keep going—even when you’re running on empty.

So, What Do You Need a Break From?

Because if I can be honest about this morning’s disaster, then you can be honest too. What’s pushing you to the edge today? What do you wish you could step away from, even just for a moment?

Let’s talk about it—because if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that we are not alone in this chaos.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed today, take a breath. Find a moment for yourself, even if it’s just a cup of tea in silence. And if you need to vent, drop a comment below—I’ll be right there with you.

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Do you need a break? From what?

The Innovation of Computers: Running a Business from Your Pocket

There was a time when running a business required an office, a landline phone, stacks of paperwork, and a whole team to manage it all. Now, we have the incredible ability to build, grow, and maintain businesses with something that fits in our pocket—the mobile phone. It’s an innovation that still amazes me every day.

The Power of Computers and the Internet

Computers revolutionised the way we work. From early desktops that took up entire desks to laptops that allow us to work from anywhere, technology has consistently made life more convenient. But the real game-changer was the Internet. Suddenly, people could connect instantly, share information, and build networks beyond their physical location.

The introduction of mobile devices took this innovation even further. Our smartphones are essentially miniature computers, giving us access to everything we need at the tap of a screen. Emails, social media, banking, content creation, meetings—everything is now portable.

Running a Business from Your Pocket

I still think about how incredible it is that I am able to help people through the power of connection, all from a device that fits in my hand. My mobile phone is my office. With it, I can:

• Write blogs and books – Whether I’m jotting down ideas in my notes app or editing content on the go, my phone allows me to keep creating.

• Connect with my audience – Social media, emails, and messaging apps mean I can engage with people no matter where I am.

• Host meetings and interviews – Video calls make it possible to collaborate, record podcast episodes, or check in with my network, all from my phone.

• Manage finances – Online banking and financial apps ensure that I can handle business transactions, invoices, and budgeting without being tied to a desk.

• Learn and grow – With access to endless resources, I can read, research, and continue developing my knowledge anytime I need.

The Innovation That Brings Us Together

We are so lucky to live in a time where computers and mobile phones allow us to work flexibly and connect with people across the world. Technology has removed so many barriers—whether it’s for work, education, or supporting others through shared experiences.

For me, my phone is more than just a tool; it’s a lifeline. It enables me to share my story, support other parents, and continue my mission of helping those who feel alone in their journey. It’s proof of how far innovation has come and a reminder of how powerful connection can be.

Call to Action

Do you use your phone or laptop to run your business, support a cause, or stay connected? Let’s talk about it! Share in the comments how technology has helped you, and don’t forget to like and subscribe for more content about parenting, neurodiversity, and mental health.

The most important invention in your lifetime is…

How the Ideal Day Changes Throughout Life

It’s funny how the definition of an ideal day shifts as we move through different stages of life. When I was younger and working on cruise ships, my perfect day was one of pure relaxation—sitting on a sun-soaked beach, eating fresh calamari, and sipping a strawberry daiquiri. And yes, that wasn’t just a dream—it was a day I actually lived, and I still look back on it fondly, a snapshot of freedom and indulgence.

Later, when I settled into life on land, my idea of a perfect day changed. No longer on cruise ship time, I craved long lie-ins, lazy mornings, and catching up with friends over coffee. It was all about recharging, enjoying the simple things, and embracing a slower pace after years of moving from one port to another.

And now? Well, now I’d consider a day ideal if it started at 8 a.m. after my daughter, Amelia, had a full night’s sleep (which, let’s be honest, she doesn’t do). I’d get her happily off to crèche, dive straight into a productive flow of batching and planning, and then enjoy a peaceful walk in the park. A lovely lunch would follow—one where I could actually sit and enjoy my meal without interruption. Amelia would then have a playdate, eat all her dinner without protest, and—best of all—go to bed at her bedtime instead of fighting it until 9 p.m.

It’s amazing how the markers of a perfect day evolve. Once, it was cocktails on the beach. Now, it’s uninterrupted sleep, a productive work session, and a toddler who eats her food and goes to bed on time. And you know what? I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

What does your ideal day look like right now? Has it changed over the years? Share in the comments—I’d love to hear how your definition of a perfect day has evolved!

And if you enjoyed this, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow for more insights into parenting, neurodiversity, and navigating the unexpected twists of life.

Describe your most ideal day from beginning to end.

Life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, it takes just one moment to change everything. For me, there have been two major life events that completely altered the way I live and see the world.

The first was in 2019. I hadn’t been feeling great, but I pushed through, as many of us do. Then, on the 7th of February, I became critically ill with sepsis. I was just 15 minutes away from not surviving. That experience left me chronically ill and changed my perspective on health, resilience, and the fragility of life.

The second life-altering moment was the birth of my daughter. Becoming a mother shifted my priorities in ways I could never have imagined. Even while managing chronic illness, I push

Life-Changing Moments: Facing Sepsis and Becoming a Mother

Life can be unpredictable. One moment, everything feels routine, and the next, everything changes. For me, two significant events completely reshaped how I see the world and how I live each day. The first was a brush with death in 2019, and the second was the moment I became a mother.

A Close Call with Sepsis

In early 2019, I hadn’t been feeling great. It wasn’t anything obvious—just a general sense of not being well. Like many people, I pushed through, assuming it was nothing serious. But on the 7th of February, my body started shutting down. I had sepsis, and I was just 15 minutes away from not surviving.

Sepsis is a medical emergency that can take hold rapidly, and in my case, it nearly cost me my life. Surviving it left me chronically ill, and I have had to adjust my life in ways I never expected. I had to learn to listen to my body, to pace myself, and to accept that some days would be harder than others. But despite these challenges, I was given a second chance—a chance to keep going, to fight, and to find a new way of living.

Motherhood: A New Purpose

The second event that changed everything was becoming a mother. Having a child shifts your perspective in ways you never truly understand until it happens. Suddenly, I wasn’t just responsible for myself—I had a tiny human who needed me.

Even while dealing with chronic illness, I knew I had to push through. Not because I had no choice, but because I wanted to show my daughter that you can do anything, even when life throws obstacles in your way. I want her to see resilience in action, to know that strength isn’t about never struggling—it’s about carrying on despite the struggles.

Finding Strength in Challenges

Both of these experiences have shaped me. Sepsis taught me the value of life and the importance of taking care of my health. Motherhood taught me that love gives you a reason to keep going, even when things feel impossible.

I won’t pretend it’s easy. Some days are incredibly tough. There are moments when chronic illness makes everything feel overwhelming. But when I look at my daughter, I am reminded of why I keep pushing forward.

We all have moments in life that change us. Some come as a warning, others as a gift. But they all shape who we become. I’ve learned that even in the hardest moments, there is a reason to keep going. And if I can do it, so can you.

Have You Had a Life-Changing Moment?

I’d love to hear your stories. What moments in your life changed everything for you? Let’s start a conversation—drop a comment below, share your experience, and let’s support each other through the challenges and triumphs of life.

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How do significant life events or the passage of time influence your perspective on life?

The One Thing That Always Stays on My To-Do List: Self-Care

As a parent, my to-do list is never-ending. There are always meals to cook, laundry to fold, toys to tidy, and appointments to book. But if there’s one thing that consistently stays on my list, yet never quite gets crossed off, it’s self-care.

It’s ironic, isn’t it? The very thing that allows me to keep going, to be present for my little one, and to function as the best version of myself is the thing I push aside the most.

Why Is Self-Care So Hard for Parents?

Before I became a parent, I imagined self-care as long baths, spa days, or curling up with a book and a cup of tea. The reality? Self-care has turned into grabbing a quick shower before my child wakes up, sneaking in a bite to eat between feeds, or stealing a moment of silence before the next round of chaos begins.

The guilt of taking time for myself is real. There’s always something more “important” to do—whether it’s soothing a teething baby, responding to an email, or making sure my child has everything they need. But here’s what I’ve come to realise: If I don’t take care of myself, I can’t take care of my child in the way they deserve.

Self-Care Is Not Selfish, It’s Essential

We hear it all the time: “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” But as parents, we still try. We run on exhaustion, we ignore our own needs, and we think we’ll be fine. Until we’re not.

Neglecting self-care can lead to burnout, frustration, and even resentment. It can impact our physical and mental health, making everyday parenting challenges even harder to manage. The truth is, taking care of yourself is taking care of your child. They need a parent who is healthy, present, and emotionally available—not one running on fumes.

Ways to Prioritise Self-Care (Even When It Feels Impossible)

Self-care doesn’t have to be an elaborate event. It can be small, intentional moments throughout the day. Here are a few ways to make it part of your routine:

1. Accept That You Deserve It

You wouldn’t deny your child the things they need, so why deny yourself? Remind yourself daily that self-care is a necessity, not a luxury.

2. Schedule It Like an Appointment

If something isn’t on my calendar, it doesn’t happen. So, I’ve started scheduling self-care like I would any other important task. Whether it’s 10 minutes of deep breathing, a quick walk outside, or an early bedtime, if it’s in the diary, it’s more likely to happen.

3. Ask for Help

You don’t have to do it all alone. Ask your partner, a friend, or a family member to watch your little one for a short while so you can step away and recharge—even if it’s just for a few minutes.

4. Redefine What Self-Care Looks Like

Maybe you don’t have time for a long bath, but can you listen to a favourite song while washing the dishes? Can you take a few deep breaths while your baby naps? Self-care doesn’t have to be grand—it just has to be something.

5. Be Kind to Yourself

Some days, self-care will be impossible, and that’s okay. Don’t let that stop you from trying again tomorrow. You deserve care just as much as anyone else.

A Reminder for Every Parent

If self-care is always at the bottom of your to-do list, bump it up. You deserve rest, nourishment, and moments of peace. You don’t need to earn it by being exhausted—you deserve it simply because you are human.

So today, I challenge you (and myself!) to do one small thing for yourself. Take a deep breath, sip that tea while it’s still hot, stretch for a moment—whatever it is, make it count.

Because when we take care of ourselves, we’re better able to take care of the little ones who depend on us.

What’s one small act of self-care you can do today? Let me know in the comments! And if you found this post helpful, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more parenting content.

Something on your “to-do list” that never gets done.

The Power of Small Wins: How a Simple Visual Board Transformed My Goal-Setting

A few weeks ago, I came across a TikTok that changed the way I approach my goals. It wasn’t about setting bigger aspirations or creating a fancy vision board filled with dream houses, holiday destinations, or life-changing milestones. Instead, it was a practical, visual method that helped me track progress in a way that felt tangible—and most importantly, achievable.

The idea was simple: take a corkboard, some flashcards, and a plastic wallet. Write down your goals on the flashcards and pin them onto the board. Then, when you accomplish a goal, move the flashcard into the plastic wallet. That’s it. But this small shift in how I track progress has made a massive difference in how I feel about my achievements.

Why Small Goals Matter

Like many of us, I’ve always been drawn to the “big picture” when it comes to goal setting. I would write down ambitious milestones—things that felt exciting but also far off. The problem? It often felt like I wasn’t making any real progress because those big goals take time.

When I started using this method, I made a conscious effort not to just focus on the big things. Instead of only listing major milestones, I also included smaller, more achievable steps. And that’s where the magic happened.

Yesterday, I had the chance to move some of my flashcards into the plastic wallet, and I can’t tell you how satisfying that moment was. One of the goals I had written down was reaching 500 likes on my blog. At the time, it felt like something that would take a while, but here I am—I’ve not only hit that goal, but I’ve now reached 749 likes!

At the beginning of the month, I didn’t think that was possible. But by logging every single day, taking advantage of the daily prompt, and when I don’t use the daily prompt, writing my own blog, I’ve seen real, measurable progress. And I’m happy.

The Visual Power of Progress

One of the biggest takeaways from this experience is that we often underestimate the power of seeing our progress visually. When goals are only in our heads, it’s easy to dismiss the small wins. But when you physically move a flashcard into that plastic wallet, it’s a clear, tangible sign that you are making progress.

And the best part? Once you’ve completed a goal, you get to replace it with a new one. That moment of moving a flashcard and then writing a new one is a powerful reminder that progress never stops. It keeps you motivated, keeps you focused, and ensures that there’s always something to work towards.

At the end of the year, I plan to look back at all the goals I’ve achieved and reflect on when I moved them into the completed section. This will be a powerful reminder of just how much I’ve accomplished—both the small and the big wins.

How You Can Use This Method

If you’re struggling with motivation or feeling like you’re not making progress, try this method for yourself:

1. Get a corkboard, flashcards, and a plastic wallet. These simple supplies will be your visual roadmap to success.

2. Write down both big and small goals. Make sure you include things that you can achieve within a few weeks, not just long-term aspirations.

3. Move completed tasks into the plastic wallet. Each time you achieve something, physically moving the card is a small but powerful action.

4. Once you complete a goal, replace it with a new one. Keep the momentum going by writing down another challenge to work towards.

5. Review your progress regularly. Take time at the end of the year (or even every few months) to look at everything you’ve achieved.

Celebrate Every Achievement

This experience has taught me that celebrating small wins is just as important as working toward the big ones. Often, we downplay the little victories, but in reality, they build the foundation for bigger successes.

So, if you’re looking for a simple yet effective way to track your progress, give this method a try. You might be surprised at how much you accomplish—and how motivating it feels to see those flashcards move into the completed section.

What small goal have you recently achieved? Let me know in the comments! And if you found this helpful, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more tips on goal-setting and motivation.

(AD) How a Meal Subscription Service Saved Us as New Parents (And Why We Still Use It 21 Months Later)

This post contains an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission if you sign up through my link. However, I only recommend things I truly believe in, and Gousto has been a game-changer for us!

When it comes to cooking, it’s so easy to fall into a rut—making the same meals over and over. Even if they’re your favourites, eating the same thing every day for months can get exhausting. Before having a baby, I never really thought about how much time and energy meal planning took, but when we were approaching my due date, Ryan and I knew we had to be realistic. Life was about to change, and cooking elaborate meals wouldn’t be high on our priority list.

Preparing for Life After NICU

We knew that bringing a baby home—especially after spending time in the neonatal unit—was going to be tough. Between sleep deprivation, recovery, and the emotional weight of everything we’d been through, the last thing we wanted was to be stressing over meals. So we made a decision that, looking back, was one of the best things we did: we subscribed to Gousto.

At first, it felt like a bit of a luxury, but we quickly realised it was more of a necessity. It took the pressure off deciding what to eat, grocery shopping, and making sure we had everything in. It meant we had fresh, healthy meals without having to think too much about it—something that was priceless during those exhausting early days of parenting.

Why Gousto Has Been a Lifesaver for Us

You’d think after almost two years, we’d have moved on from the meal subscription, but the truth is, it’s become a staple in our lives. Here’s why:

1. It Gives Us Peace of Mind with Food Allergies

I have coeliac disease, and my daughter has a dairy allergy, so eating safely is always a priority. One of the biggest reliefs with Gousto is knowing exactly what’s going into our meals. We can easily choose recipes that suit our dietary needs, and everything is clearly labelled, so there’s no second-guessing. It removes the stress of reading endless ingredient lists in the supermarket or worrying about hidden allergens.

2. It Saves Mental Energy

Decision fatigue is real. With everything else going on—work, parenting, and life in general—having one less thing to think about is a game changer.

3. It Helps Us Eat Well

When you’re tired, it’s so easy to grab quick, unhealthy options. Having nutritious meals delivered means we don’t have to rely on freezer food or takeaways.

4. It’s Actually Cost-Effective

It might seem expensive at first, but compared to buying ingredients we might not use up or getting last-minute takeaways, it balances out. Plus, it stops us from impulse-buying random things at the supermarket!

5. It Keeps Cooking Interesting

We’re not eating the same meals on repeat anymore! We get to try new things without the hassle of planning or buying loads of different ingredients.

6. It Fits Around Our Busy Schedule

Parenting a toddler means there’s never a dull moment, and some days, cooking from scratch feels impossible. But with pre-measured ingredients and simple recipes, meals are ready in no time.

Would I Recommend It to New Parents? Absolutely.

If you’re expecting a baby (especially if you know you’ll be dealing with hospital stays or a NICU journey), I can’t recommend Gousto enough. It takes one huge stress off your plate—literally. Whether it’s a short-term solution to get you through the early months or something you keep up long-term like we have, it’s an investment in your well-being.

For us, knowing that our meals are safe for both me and Amelia has been a huge weight off our shoulders. We don’t have to worry about cross-contamination or hidden allergens, which means we can enjoy mealtimes together without stress.

There are so many options out there now, from budget-friendly to gourmet, so there’s something for everyone. If you’re considering it, I’d say give it a go—you might just find it’s one of the best decisions you make too.

Have you tried a meal subscription service? What’s your experience been like? Let me know in the comments!

https://gousto.co.uk/raf?promo_code=RYAN43977092&utm_source=androidapp

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to like and subscribe for more tips on navigating parenthood, mental health, and life after NICU.

What’s your favorite thing to cook?

Screen Time Boundaries That Work for Everyone

In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere—TVs, tablets, phones, and computers are a constant presence in our lives. As parents, especially those of us navigating neurodiversity or raising children with special educational needs, setting screen time boundaries can feel like an impossible task. We want to encourage balance while recognising that technology can be an essential tool for learning, relaxation, and even social interaction.

So, how do we create screen time boundaries that actually work—for us, our children, and our family as a whole? Here’s how we can approach this with flexibility, understanding, and realistic expectations.

1. Understanding the Role of Screens in Your Family Life

Before setting boundaries, take a step back and evaluate how screens fit into your family’s daily routine. Ask yourself:

• When is screen time helpful (e.g., for learning, calming down, or social connection)?

• When does it become problematic (e.g., interfering with sleep, reducing engagement in other activities, or leading to overstimulation)?

• Are there specific triggers that make screen time disputes more challenging?

For neurodivergent children, screens can be a source of comfort and a way to self-regulate. For parents, screens can provide a necessary moment of respite. Recognising the positive and negative aspects can help us set realistic, personalised boundaries.

2. Creating Realistic and Flexible Screen Time Limits

Rather than enforcing strict time limits that may not suit your family’s needs, consider an adaptable approach:

• Time-based limits: Instead of “two hours a day,” think about screen-free periods (e.g., no screens before school, during meals, or 30 minutes before bed).

• Activity-based limits: Allow screens after completing specific tasks like homework, outdoor play, or social time.

• Content-based limits: Focus on what’s being watched or played rather than how long. Encourage educational or creative content rather than passive consumption.

For neurodivergent children, flexibility is key. Some may need extra time to transition off screens, while others may use screen time to decompress after social interactions or sensory overload.

3. Using Visual Schedules and Timers

Children, especially those who thrive on structure, often respond well to visual schedules. Try:

• A screen time chart that shows when screens are allowed (and when they’re not).

• A first-then approach: “First, we eat dinner, then you can have 30 minutes of screen time.”

• Using timers (such as a sand timer or a visual countdown app) to help with transitions.

For children who struggle with abrupt changes, giving a 5-minute warning before screen time ends can prevent meltdowns.

4. Setting Up Screen-Free Zones

Instead of limiting overall screen time, focus on where screens are used. Some effective boundaries include:

• No screens at the dinner table – this encourages family conversations.

• Screen-free bedrooms – to support better sleep.

• Screens only in shared spaces – making it easier to monitor content.

This helps create a balance without needing constant arguments over minutes spent on devices.

5. Encouraging Other Activities

If screens are a go-to activity, reducing their use can feel like taking away a comfort. Instead of just saying “no screens,” offer engaging alternatives:

• Sensory play (e.g., playdough, water play, or fidget toys).

• Outdoor activities (a walk, playground visit, or simple nature scavenger hunt).

• Creative play (building with LEGO, painting, or storytelling).

• Social play (board games or role-playing games).

For neurodivergent children, having clear choices and transition activities (e.g., moving from a screen to a sensory-friendly activity) can make reducing screen time easier.

6. Modelling Healthy Screen Use

Children learn from what they see. If we’re constantly on our phones, they’ll naturally want to do the same.

Try:

• Having “tech-free” family time where everyone puts their devices away.

• Talking about how and why we use screens—e.g., “I’m checking a recipe” rather than mindless scrolling.

• Being mindful of our own screen habits to set a positive example.

7. Using Screens as a Tool, Not a Villain

Screens aren’t inherently bad; they just need to be used in a way that serves us rather than controls us. For children with additional needs, technology can be a vital tool for communication, learning, and emotional regulation.

Instead of focusing on how much screen time, think about how it’s used:

✅ Educational apps and games

✅ Video calls with family

✅ Creative activities (drawing apps, coding, music creation)

🚫 Endless scrolling or overstimulating content

By making screen time intentional, we can feel less guilty about it.

8. Navigating Pushback and Negotiation

Let’s be honest—setting boundaries will come with pushback. Instead of battling over screens, involve children in creating the rules:

• Explain the reasoning: “Screens before bed make it harder to sleep, so we turn them off 30 minutes before.”

• Give choices: “Would you like to watch for 20 minutes now or after dinner?”

• Compromise when needed—on a long journey, extra screen time might be okay!

When children feel heard, they’re more likely to cooperate.

Final Thoughts: Balance, Not Perfection

There’s no one-size-fits-all rule for screen time because every family—and every child—is different. The goal isn’t to eliminate screens but to create healthy boundaries that support well-being. Some days, screen time might be higher, and that’s okay. What matters is finding a balance that works for your family, without guilt or constant battles.

What screen time strategies work for your family? Let’s share and support each other in the comments!

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A Journey Through Technology: From Clunky Typewriters to Powerful Smartphones

I often think back to the first computer we had at home. It was the 1980s, and we had a Macintosh, the same kind that was in schools at the time. The only reason we had one was because my dad was one of those people who went around teaching teachers how to use them. It was bulky, slow by today’s standards, and had a very basic interface, but back then, it felt like magic.

My own first piece of personal technology wasn’t actually a computer at all. It was an electronic typewriter in the 1990s. It had a tiny screen—only about five centimetres deep—so I could only see a few lines of text at a time. It was incredibly heavy and clunky, but at the time, it was revolutionary for me. I could type, print directly from it, and have something that felt a little more advanced than just pen and paper.

Then came my first proper laptop in 2005—a Dell. I had it for several years, and it was truly incredible. It was solid, reliable, and built to last, like those early Motorola or Nokia phones that you could drop hundreds of times, and they would still work.

The Cruise Ship & the Laptop That Could Survive Anything

When I worked on cruise ships, I took my Dell laptop with me everywhere. It became a lifeline for emails, work, and keeping in touch with the world outside. But one memory will always stick with me.

After dry dock (when a ship goes in for maintenance), something happened in the laundry room. Every time the washing machines went into a spin cycle, the entire ship shook. And I mean, really shook. One day, I had my laptop sitting on the side in the spa, where I was working at the time. The shaking from the laundry was so intense that my laptop literally jumped off the counter and onto the floor.

I was sure it was broken, but no—it was still in perfect working order. That computer was indestructible, unlike today’s sleek, fragile machines.

From Laptops to Phones: A Whole New World

Now, when I think about what I use for work, writing, and communication, I don’t even own a laptop anymore. Instead, I have a smartphone that is more powerful than anything I could have imagined back then.

Back in the 80s and 90s, I could never have predicted that one day, I’d be running a blog, writing books, and creating social media content all from something that fits in my pocket. A tiny device that can do everything—from video calls across the world to running entire businesses.

I feel incredibly privileged to have witnessed this journey of technology. I went from an era of clunky, slow devices to a world where I can work from anywhere with just my phone. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come—and how lucky we are to live in an age where the entire world is at our fingertips.

What Are Your First Tech Memories?

I’d love to hear your stories! What was the first computer or piece of technology you remember using? And how does it compare to what you use today?

Let me know in the comments—and don’t forget to like and subscribe for more nostalgic reflections on life, parenting, and the world around us!

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