Beyond Labels: Person-Centred Support for Every Child with Andrew Baker

Cliff speaks with Andrew Baker of joined by Andrew Baker, trainer, podcaster and author, who's worked for over 25 years in health, social care and education, he specialised in behaviour management and neuro diversity. Today, they discuss executive function and what really helps children to thrive at home and school. Disclaimer : Please remember this podcast shares professional guidance and lived experiences, but it's not a substitute for personalised medical advice, so if you do have concerns, always consult your GP or healthcare professional, as every situation is unique, but hopefully there's lots of nuggets of information in here that you can extract what works for you and always leave what doesn't. I’d love you to join our new Discord community. Meta is shutting down Facebook Messenger community chats in Oct 2025— so this is where we’ll carry on the conversations. This isn’t just another chat room. It’s a space for parents raising kids with Autism and ADHD to connect, share, and support each other. 👉 Be quick if you want one of the first 10 spots. The first 10 parents who join will get a Founding Member badge in Discord — first 5 will get a private Zoom call with me. Just DM me a screenshot that you’ve joined first to unlock it. As a founding member, you’ll have a hand in shaping how this community begins — setting the tone, suggesting features, and helping build the kind of space we all need. EPISODE REVEALS Most kids with ADHD have a 30% deficit when it comes to executive function. Early support radically changes lives. Focus on strengths, not just struggles. Use tools like mood thermometers to help kids express emotions. Join your children where they are at, advocate for them, but also help them to understand the world that they live in and to make reasonable adjustments. BEST MOMENTS "Building self-esteem comes through mastery." "De-shaming is massive." "We want to praise the thing that we want repeated." "Go into “so let's look at the benefits.” What could be the actual benefits of treating people kindly?" Andrew Baker 📲 Instagram: @AbleTraining 📲 LinkedIn: Able Training 📲 TikTok: @AbleToCarePodcast 🌐 Website: http://linktr.ee/abletocare Andy’s book: "Targeting the Positive with Behaviours that Challenge: Empathic Strategies for Working with Children and Adults" https://amzn.eu/d/4s08NQT RESOURCES 👉 10% off your first order Vivanmn LINK - https://vivanmn.com/cliff “What To do when your child shuts down” book out now - https://amzn.eu/d/iOMsOrF New Parenting Autism and ADHD community - Because Meta is shutting down FB messenger community chats, we can continue the conversation here on Discord - https://discord.gg/SbXd34QV CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠ X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!