#43 - Wendy's Lived Experience

Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast hosted by Leisa Reichelt. In this episode, Wendy, a high school teacher and foster parent, shares her story of caring for her foster son Jax, who has struggled with school attendance for several years.Wendy shares the various challenges they have faced with the education system, their experiences with foster care, and their journey towards finding an appropriate learning environment for Jax where he is now truly seen, understood and supported. The episode also highlights the importance of understanding neurodiversity and advocating for children with special needs.Content warning: the episode includes a mention of suicide. Please listen with care and reach out for support if you need it.00:00 Welcome to the School Can't Experience Podcast00:27 Introducing Wendy and Her Story01:16 Wendy's Background and Family Dynamics04:45 Challenges in the Education System08:55 Navigating the Foster Care System16:12 Breakthroughs and Progress23:21 Finding the Right School29:47 Reflections and Future Hopes33:52 Closing Remarks and ResourcesPeople & resources mentioned in this episode:NSW In-Home Care - https://nswihc.org.au/in-home-care/Your Child is Not Broken: Parent Your Neurodivergent Child Without Losing Your Marbles, by Heidi Mavir  - https://www.panmacmillan.com.au/9781035030576/Send us Fan MailSupport the showSchool Can’t Australia Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/schoolphobiaschoolrefusalaustraliaIf this podcast or the School Can’t Australia community has helped you, please consider making a donation or volunteering to help. Find out more here: https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/get-involved#donateIf this episode helped you please take a moment to subscribe, rate, or review the podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. It genuinely helps other School Can't families find us.If you are a parent of carer in Australia and experiencing distress, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or contact the Parent Help Line. - https://kidshelpline.com.au/parents/issues/how-parentline-can-help-youYou can contact us to volunteer to share your School Can't story or some feedback via email on [email protected] content of this podcast is based on personal lived experiences and is shared for informational and storytelling purposes only. It should not be treated as medical, psychological, or professional advice under any circumstances. If you have concerns about your health or well-being, please seek guidance from a doctor, therapist,...