Episode 35: What Does School Readiness Mean for Neurodivergent Students?

Chris sits down with Chris Heys, Head of School at Hampshire Country School, to discuss what true school readiness really means. Together, they explore why readiness is about far more than compliance. They show how parents and educators can recognize when a child is struggling and why relationships and trust are essential for meaningful learning. They also discuss the importance of self-advocacy, and knowing when a different educational environment may be the right fit. For many neurodivergent students and their families, back-to-school season can bring uncertainty and difficult decisions, but this conversation offers practical guidance and encouragement for parents preparing for the new school year.

Links:
Autism Learning Lab: https://www.autismlearninglab.com/
Email: [email protected]

Hampshire Country School: https://www.hampshirecountryschool.org/

Quotes:
[7:15-7:20] Heys: "Readiness is not obedience and compliance. Readiness can
look many different ways."
[12:23] Heys: "Breaks are always okay."

[22:40-22:42] Heys “Nobody else on the planet knows your child better than
you."