Able to Care

Dementia Care Made Easier: Insights and Stories with the Dementia Whisperer

In this episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker is joined by Sylvia Stock, widely known as The Dementia Whisperer. With a deep background in nursing and care management, Sylvia shares her profound personal journey of caring for her husband, who was diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer’s dementia in 2010. From navigating the early days of denial and confusion to creatively adapting daily routines, Sylvia offers heartfelt advice and practical tools for carers, educators, and families supporting loved ones with dementia.
Sylvia’s compassion and experience shine through as she discusses the importance of mindset, finding joy in small moments, and the "Three A’s of Caring"—Acknowledge, Accept, Adjust. Her insights provide a lifeline of support for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of dementia care, helping them to find balance, resilience, and peace in difficult circumstances.
🎧 Sponsors:This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK's leading carers' card. Enjoy thousands of pounds worth of discounts, access to a wellbeing hub, and community support for less than the price of a box of chocolates per year. Get your card today.
📚 Resources Mentioned:
The Rocky Road Book Series: Discover Sylvia's inspirational journey and practical strategies for carers.
Support Networks: Organisations like Samaritans can provide a listening ear when you need to vent.
Sylvia’s Website: Explore her books and find additional resources for carers navigating dementia care.
🔑 Key Messages:
The Three A’s of Caring:One of Sylvia’s most valuable insights is her “Three A’s of Caring”—Acknowledge, Accept, and Adjust. She explains that the first step in any caregiving journey is to acknowledge the reality of what is happening, no matter how painful it may be. Acceptance comes next, allowing carers to embrace the changes and challenges they face without resistance. Finally, adjusting is the ongoing, daily act of adapting your mindset, routines, and strategies to best support your loved one’s needs. This simple yet powerful framework helps carers navigate each stage of the dementia journey with patience and clarity.
Finding Joy in Small Moments:Despite the hardships of caring for someone living with dementia, Sylvia beautifully highlights the importance of finding joy in small, everyday moments. Whether it’s seeing her husband light up at a song he loved, sharing a meal together, or watching him enjoy time with therapy animals, these moments became treasures in her journey. By approaching life with creativity and a positive mindset, she found ways to prevent embarrassment, reduce stress, and create meaningful connections. These moments of joy are not always obvious but are there for those who choose to see them.
Mindset is Everything:Throughout her journey, Sylvia emphasises that mindset is a carer’s most powerful tool. She shares how practices such as gratitude, affirmations, and choosing peace in difficult situations enabled her to stay calm and resilient. For Sylvia, the ability to take a deep breath and focus on what she could control made all the difference. She also reminds listeners that venting emotions is essential to avoid burnout, whether by talking to trusted friends or reaching out to support organisations like the Samaritans. By managing her mindset, she was able to cope with the unpredictable nature of dementia while maintaining her sense of self and inner peace.
 
⏱️ Timestamps (Chapters):00:00 – 03:00: Episode Introduction and Carers Card UK Sponsorship03:01 – 08:00: Sylvia’s Story: The Early Signs of Dementia and Pre-Diagnosis Challenges08:01 – 20:00: Navigating Life with Young Onset Alzheimer’s: Creativity and Mindset Shifts20:01 – 30:00: The Emotional Journey: Denial, Grief, and Acceptance30:01 – 40:00: Stories of Joy and Connection in Dementia Care40:01 – 50:00: The Three A’s of Caring: Acknowledge, Accept, Adjust50:01 – 56:00: Inner Peace and Gratitude: Sylvia’s Tools for Managing Stress
🎧 Why Listen to This Episode?This episode is a powerful, compassionate guide for anyone navigating the complexities of dementia care. Sylvia’s practical strategies, uplifting stories, and mindset tips will help you:
Approach dementia with creativity and resilience.
Cope with stress using mindset tools like gratitude and reflection.
Focus on the moments of joy that still exist in daily life.
Whether you’re a parent, carer, or educator, Sylvia’s wisdom offers a beacon of hope for anyone supporting a loved one through dementia.
🔗 Connect with Us:Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcastLinkedIn: Able To Care PodcastTikTok: @AbleToCareFacebook: Able to Care Podcast
🔗 Explore More:Visit AbleHub.uk for exclusive resources, certified online courses, and podcast content designed to empower carers, educators, and leaders. Sign up for a 14-day free trial today!
If you found this episode useful, please like, comment, and share to help us spread awareness and support more carers, teachers, and families navigating the dementia journey. Together, we can make a difference!

Surviving the Festive Stress: A Guide for Parents, Carers, and Teachers

Join host Andy Baker on this special Christmas Eve episode of the Able to Care podcast, created with parents, teachers, and caregivers in mind. In this heartfelt discussion, Andy shares practical self-care strategies to help you manage the joys and stresses of the holiday season. Whether you’re juggling family responsibilities, navigating classroom challenges, or supporting loved ones in your care, this episode offers actionable advice to keep you grounded and prioritise your wellbeing. 🎄
With Christmas tomorrow, Andy reminds us that caring for others starts with caring for ourselves. Discover ways to create a meaningful and balanced festive season that benefits both you and those you support.
Resources Mentioned
Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor):Access thousands of pounds’ worth of discounts, a wellbeing hub, and the Carers Circle tool with Carer’s Card UK. Designed to reward and recognise carers, this card is perfect for saving on gym memberships, days out, clothing, and more. Take care of yourself while caring for others. Order now.
AbleHub.uk:Support your caregiving journey with over 45 certified courses and exclusive resources on topics like self-care, neurodiversity, classroom management, and de-escalation strategies. Perfect for teachers, parents, and carers, AbleHub empowers you with practical tools and community support. Start your free trial.
Andy’s Book, Targeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge:Learn how to build better connections, de-escalate challenging behaviours, and foster empathy. Andy’s celebrated TARGET model offers parents, teachers, and caregivers practical tools for supporting individuals with neurodiversity, trauma, or behavioural challenges. Order here.
Key Messages for Parents, Teachers, and Carers
Understanding the Emotional Challenges of ChristmasFor parents, teachers, and caregivers, the festive season can amplify both joy and stress. Andy discusses how to navigate common pressures like family dynamics, financial strains, and the invisible labour of caregiving, from managing children’s emotional needs to handling classroom chaos. Recognising your own needs is key to creating a peaceful and meaningful Christmas for everyone.
Simple Self-Care for Busy Caregivers and EducatorsSelf-care doesn’t need to be time-consuming or costly. Andy shares small but powerful strategies, such as planning ahead with a to-do list, prioritising tasks using the Eisenhower Matrix, and setting clear boundaries. These tips are tailored to help parents and carers balance the demands of family life, and for teachers, they offer ways to avoid burnout during this hectic time of year.
Building a Balanced Festive SeasonFrom staying hydrated to maintaining healthy routines, Andy emphasises the importance of physical and mental wellbeing during the holidays. He introduces the "spoon theory," a concept for managing energy levels, and encourages parents, carers, and teachers to lean on their support networks. Gratitude exercises are highlighted as a way to shift focus to the positives, even during stressful moments.
Key Timestamps
00:00:00 – Welcome to this Christmas Eve episode and its focus on caregivers, parents, and teachers.
00:02:31 – The emotional challenges of Christmas for caregivers and educators.
00:03:41 – How to balance family dynamics, financial pressures, and classroom stress.
00:06:10 – The value of boundaries and how to say no to overcommitments.
00:08:10 – Tips for planning ahead and prioritising tasks effectively.
00:13:14 – Maintaining energy with self-care, gratitude, and physical wellbeing.
00:18:59 – Andy’s book Targeting the Positive—a must-have resource for managing behaviours.
Stay Connected with Us!
If you’re a parent, teacher, or carer, don’t miss future episodes packed with practical strategies and insights. Subscribe to the Able to Care podcast and follow us on social media:
LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram: @abletraining
TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
Join the AbleHub Community
Empower your caregiving or teaching journey with AbleHub.uk. Access exclusive resources, podcast content, and certified courses tailored for parents, teachers, and carers. From understanding neurodiversity to fostering self-care, AbleHub has everything you need to thrive this Christmas and beyond.
🎁 Sign up for free and explore all the benefits for 14 days. Join here.
Closing Thought
Christmas is a time for giving, but that includes giving to yourself. Whether you’re supporting children, students, or loved ones, remember that your wellbeing matters. Wishing you a joyful, peaceful, and meaningful holiday season. Thank you for joining this special Christmas Eve episode of the Able to Care podcast. 🎄

Why 'Santa's Watching' Doesn’t Work – And What Does

As the festive season approaches, many caregivers and parents turn to the idea of "Santa's watching" as a quick fix for managing behaviour. But does this popular strategy genuinely help in the long run? In this episode, Andy Baker dives deep into why using Santa as a disciplinary tool may be counterproductive, exploring its potential risks and sharing alternative approaches to fostering positive behaviour. By understanding the limitations of fear-based motivation and focusing on empathy and connection, you can help create a more meaningful and joyful holiday experience for everyone involved.
This episode is essential listening for caregivers, parents, and educators who want to promote positive behavioural strategies during the holidays while keeping the festive spirit alive. 🎧
Resources Mentioned
Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor): Unlock thousands of pounds in savings with Carer’s Card UK, the number one carers’ support card in the UK. Enjoy exclusive discounts on everyday essentials, gym memberships, days out, and more. The card also includes access to a wellbeing hub, a Carers Circle tool, and a supportive community. Order yours today at Carer’s Card UK.
AbleHub: Discover a treasure trove of resources at AbleHub, including certified online courses, practical tools, and exclusive podcast content designed for caregivers, educators, and advocates. With over 45 courses on topics like self-care, conflict management, and understanding neurodiversity, AbleHub is your go-to resource for personal and professional growth. Try it free for 14 days at AbleHub.uk.
Key Messages
The Problem with Using Santa as a Behaviour Management ToolWhile the idea of "Santa's watching" might seem like an easy solution for managing children’s behaviour during the holidays, Andy explains why fear-based motivation can backfire in the long term. It may temporarily stop undesirable actions, but it fails to teach children the intrinsic value of positive behaviour, empathy, or self-regulation. Over time, this approach can undermine trust and leave children questioning the fairness and honesty of caregivers, leading to deeper issues around communication and relationships.
Focusing on Empathy and Intrinsic MotivationAndy discusses the importance of fostering empathy and helping children understand the impact of their actions on others. By teaching children to reflect on their behaviour and recognise the benefits of kindness, organisation, and cooperation, caregivers can encourage long-lasting positive habits. Andy highlights how shifting from external rewards, like presents, to intrinsic motivation can help children feel more fulfilled and capable of managing their own emotions and actions.
Practical Strategies for Promoting Positive BehaviourInstead of relying on Santa-related threats, Andy shares actionable strategies to encourage positive interactions during the festive season. From setting clear boundaries and expectations to validating children’s feelings while guiding them towards adaptive behaviours, these tools can transform how families and caregivers approach behaviour management. Andy also emphasises the power of positive reinforcement, like recognising kindness or encouraging children to give to others, as a more effective way to create a harmonious holiday environment.
Key Timestamps
00:00:00 - Introduction: Santa, behaviour, and festive discipline.
00:02:13 - Why caregivers use Santa as a behaviour tool and its potential downsides.
00:03:19 - The limitations of fear-based motivation and its long-term impact on trust.
00:04:32 - Shifting the focus to empathy and teaching adaptive behaviours.
00:06:47 - How external rewards can undermine intrinsic motivation.
00:08:15 - Managing holiday stress and promoting positive interactions.
00:09:39 - Practical strategies for encouraging positive behaviour.
00:11:07 - Setting clear boundaries and expectations for better behaviour management.
00:12:11 - Using Santa to inspire kindness instead of fear.
Stay Connected!
If you found this episode insightful, subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast for more practical strategies and engaging discussions on behaviour management, caregiving, and education. Follow us for updates:
LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram: @abletraining
TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
Discover More with AbleHub!
Looking for more ways to enhance your caregiving and teaching skills? Join the AbleHub community for access to exclusive podcast content, certified online courses, and practical resources designed to support your personal and professional growth. With topics ranging from self-care and dementia support to conflict management and understanding neurodiversity, AbleHub offers everything you need to succeed.👉 Start your free 14-day trial today at AbleHub.uk.
Let’s make this holiday season a time for meaningful connections and positive behaviour change! 🎄

Navigating Care Support: Tips for Families and Carers

Join host Andy Baker on the Able to Care podcast as he sits down with Dean from Grey Matters Consultancy to explore how families can plan for the future, access vital care and financial support, and navigate sensitive conversations about care needs. Dean shares his wealth of experience, from starting as a frontline care worker to managing a franchise dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities, vulnerabilities, or aging needs.
This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone seeking to secure support for themselves or their loved ones. Discover how proactive planning, understanding eligibility, and accessing resources like attendance allowance can transform lives and maintain independence. 🎧
Resources Mentioned:
Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor): Gain access to discounts, a wellbeing hub, and community support with Carer’s Card UK. Recognising and rewarding carers across the UK for less than the price of a box of chocolates a year. Visit Carer’s Card UK to learn more.
Grey Matters Consultancy: Helping families access support for care, financial planning, and more. Learn how their services make a difference in maintaining independence and quality of life.
Andy’s Book, "Targeting the Positive with Behaviours that Challenge": A guide for caregivers and educators to build empathy, confidence, and effective de-escalation techniques.
Key Messages:
Understanding Attendance AllowanceDean explains the often-overlooked financial support for individuals over state pension age. Attendance allowance provides vital funds to support daily living needs and maintain independence.
Overcoming Barriers to AccessDiscover how complex forms and a lack of awareness can hinder access to support, and learn how Grey Matters Consultancy simplifies the process with their expertise.
Sensitive Conversations Around CareAndy and Dean discuss strategies for initiating compassionate and constructive conversations about future care needs with loved ones, focusing on empathy and mutual understanding.
TikTok for AwarenessDean shares how his TikTok channel delivers bite-sized advice, raising awareness and helping families navigate the care system.
 
Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Welcome and Carer’s Card UK introduction
00:01:24 - Dean's inspiring career journey
00:03:47 - Demystifying attendance allowance
00:12:25 - How to start sensitive conversations
00:24:14 - Overcoming barriers to financial and care support
00:32:00 - The role of TikTok in raising awareness
00:38:18 - Planning for the future
00:44:37 - Addressing common misconceptions
00:50:00 - Encouraging proactive planning
00:54:15 - Closing thoughts and resources
 
Stay Connected!
Subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast and follow us for updates:
LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram: @abletraining
TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
Discover More on AbleHub!
Access exclusive podcast content, practical resources, and certified online courses. Sign up today at AbleHub.uk.
 

Emotions Matter: The Key to Calm and Connection

Join host Andy Baker on the Able to Care Podcast as he explores the fascinating phenomenon of emotional contagion—how emotions spread between individuals and influence group dynamics. Andy delves into the psychology behind emotional ripple effects and shares actionable strategies to manage behaviour in classrooms, workplaces, care environments, and even at home. Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or leader, this episode equips you with the tools to create calm, positive, and resilient environments.
Andy explains how emotional states—like calmness, fear, or joy—are contagious and impact those around us. By recognising this ripple effect, you can manage not only your own responses but also the emotional tone of any setting. From mindfulness and self-regulation to practical de-escalation techniques, Andy provides a toolkit for navigating even the most challenging emotional situations.
This episode is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their skills in emotional regulation and behaviour management. 🎧
Resources Mentioned:
Carers Card UK (Sponsor): Gain access to discounts, a wellbeing hub, and support tools with Carers Card UK, designed to reward and recognise carers across the UK.
Andy’s Book, "Targeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge": A practical guide to understanding behaviour, fostering empathy, and building resilience. Learn more about the Target Model and improve your ability to de-escalate challenging situations effectively.
Key Messages:
The Ripple Effect of Emotions:Andy unpacks how emotions—positive or negative—spread within a group, influencing collective behaviour. By managing your emotional state, you can create a calming or energising effect that benefits everyone involved.
The Importance of Emotional Literacy:Recognising emotional contagion is the first step to harnessing its power. Emotional intelligence and literacy enable you to self-regulate and set the tone for those around you, fostering a positive environment.
Practical Tools for Emotional Regulation:Andy introduces strategies like mindfulness, breathing exercises, and emotional buffers to help you respond—rather than react—to challenging situations. These tools allow you to anchor your emotions and create a ripple effect of calm.
Modelling Healthy Responses:Emotions like frustration or anxiety are natural, but expressing them constructively is key. Andy emphasises the importance of open communication and demonstrating self-regulation to influence others positively.
Key Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction to emotional contagion and its impact on behaviour00:01:24 - Carers Card UK sponsorship and benefits for carers00:02:18 - Emotional contagion explained: How emotions spread unconsciously00:03:47 - Real-world examples: Laughter epidemics and stress spillovers00:06:17 - Strategies for becoming an emotional anchor in challenging situations00:07:32 - Building a self-regulation toolkit: Breathing, mindfulness, and pauses00:10:11 - Creating emotional buffers and modelling healthy responses00:12:25 - Andy’s book, Targeting the Positive, and the Target Model for behaviour management
Stay Connected!
Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss future conversations filled with practical strategies for caregivers, educators, and leaders. Subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast and connect with us on social media for updates and insights:
Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast
LinkedIn: Able To Care Podcast
TikTok: @AbleToCare
Facebook: Able to Care Podcast
Keep Learning with AbleHub!
Looking for more resources to support your work as a caregiver, educator, or advocate? Join the AbleHub community for exclusive podcast content, practical resources, certified online courses, and interactive events.
With over 45 courses covering essential topics like self-care, dementia support, conflict management, and neurodiversity, AbleHub equips you with the tools and strategies to make a real difference.
👉 Sign up today at AbleHub.uk for a 14-day free trial and gain access to a wealth of knowledge for less than the price of a coffee per week.

Living with Dementia: Peter Middleton’s Inspiring Journey

Join Andy Baker, Nadeen Sutton, and guest Peter Middleton as they explore the lived experience of dementia, breaking stigmas and inspiring hope.
In this heartfelt episode of the Able to Care Podcast, Andy Baker and co-host Nadeen Sutton are joined by Peter Middleton, an inspiring advocate with lived experience of dementia. Diagnosed five years ago, Peter shares his journey of navigating life with dementia, breaking down myths and misconceptions, and discovering ways to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.
Peter offers a unique perspective on the challenges faced by individuals with dementia and their families, discussing topics such as the importance of early diagnosis, the stigma surrounding dementia, and the power of positivity and connection. This episode provides practical strategies for carers, educators, and advocates while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
🎧 Sponsors:This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK's leading carers' card. Enjoy thousands of pounds worth of discounts, access to a wellbeing hub, and community support for less than the price of a box of chocolates per year. Get your card today.
📚 Resources Mentioned:
Knowledge is Power booklet: Order here
Dementia Friends initiative: Learn more
Missing Persons Protocol: Find resources
🔑 Key Messages:
Challenging Stigmas and Misconceptions:Peter shares how dementia is often misunderstood, highlighting the importance of seeing the individual beyond the diagnosis and recognising their capabilities and contributions.
The Importance of Coping Strategies:Practical tools like medication organisers, community connections, and simple routines can transform daily life for individuals with dementia and their families.
Positivity and Purpose in Dementia Advocacy:By sharing his journey and engaging in advocacy work, Peter demonstrates how living with dementia can inspire others, foster hope, and create lasting impact.
⏱️ Timestamps (Chapters):00:00 – 03:00: Episode Introduction and Carers Card UK Sponsorship03:01 – 12:00: Peter’s Journey with Dementia: From Diagnosis to Advocacy12:01 – 22:00: Breaking Myths: Driving, Stigma, and Everyday Challenges22:01 – 30:00: Building Coping Strategies: Tools and Techniques for Daily Life30:01 – 40:00: Supporting Carers: Emotional and Practical Perspectives40:01 – 50:00: Advocacy in Action: Peter’s Work and Future Goals50:01 – 60:00: Finding Positivity and Purpose in Living with Dementia
🎧 Why Listen to This Episode?This episode offers a deeply personal and inspiring look at life with dementia, blending Peter’s wisdom and advocacy with practical advice for carers and supporters. Learn how to:
Break down common misconceptions about dementia.
Build practical coping strategies for everyday life.
Foster resilience and positivity in the face of adversity.
Whether you’re a carer, educator, or someone interested in learning more about dementia, this episode provides a wealth of insights and inspiration.
🔗 Connect with Us:
Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast
LinkedIn: Able To Care Podcast
TikTok: @AbleToCare
Facebook: Able to Care Podcast
🔗 Explore More:Visit AbleHub.uk for exclusive resources, certified online courses, and podcast content designed to empower carers, educators, and leaders. Sign up for a 14-day free trial today!
If this episode resonated with you, please like, comment, and share to help us spread awareness and support more carers and individuals navigating life with dementia. Together, we can make a difference!
 

Social Conditioning: The Key to Better Behaviour Management

In this insightful episode of the Able to Care Podcast, host Andy Baker dives into the fascinating world of social conditioning and its profound impact on behaviour. From the early days of childhood to complex adult interactions, Andy explores how behaviours are shaped by norms, expectations, and the environments we navigate daily. He challenges traditional punishment-and-reward models of behaviour management, offering a fresh perspective grounded in research and practical strategies.
Drawing on experiments like the Solomon Asch Conformity Study and the Bobo Doll Experiment, Andy provides actionable advice for caregivers, teachers, and leaders looking to foster positive behaviours. Whether you're working with children, supporting adults, or leading a team, this episode is packed with insights to help you create environments that promote respect, connection, and growth.
💡 Sponsors:This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK's leading carers' card. Enjoy thousands of pounds worth of discounts, access to a wellbeing hub, and community support—all for less than the price of a box of chocolates per year. Visit Carers Card UK today to order yours.
📚 Resources Mentioned:
Solomon Asch Conformity Experiment: Insights into the power of peer influence.
Bobo Doll Experiment: Understanding how observation shapes behaviour.
Andy Baker’s Book: Targeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge—a practical guide to behaviour management.
Able Hub: Access exclusive resources, certified courses, and a supportive community at AbleHub.uk.
🔑 Key Messages:
The Role of Social Conditioning:Social conditioning shapes behaviours through interactions, norms, and cues, starting from early childhood.
Moving Beyond Punishment-and-Reward Models:Traditional approaches often fail to address the root causes of behaviours. Instead, focus on the influence of environments and social norms.
Practical Behaviour Management Strategies:
Create supportive environments: Model and reinforce desired behaviours through clear expectations and boundaries.
Lead by example: Actions speak louder than words; consistency is key.
Encourage positive reinforcement: Recognise and celebrate respectful, calm, and constructive interactions.
⏱️ Timestamps (Chapters):00:00 – 02:00: Introduction to social conditioning02:01 – 07:00: Moving beyond punishment-and-reward behaviour models07:01 – 14:00: Key experiments that highlight the power of social norms14:01 – 20:00: Practical applications for behaviour management20:01 – 25:00: Building positive environments in schools, homes, and workplaces25:01 – End: Final thoughts on the transformative power of understanding social conditioning
🎧 Why Listen to This Episode?This episode offers a fresh perspective on understanding and managing behaviour through the lens of social conditioning. By unpacking the science behind social norms and their influence, Andy Baker equips listeners with the tools to:
Design environments that promote positive behaviour.
Recognise the role of peer influence and modelling.
Foster respectful, supportive cultures in any setting.
If you’re ready to rethink behaviour management and embrace connection over control, this episode is for you.
🔗 Connect with Us:
Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast
LinkedIn: Able To Care Podcast
TikTok: @AbleToCare
Facebook: Able to Care Podcast
🔗 Explore More:Visit AbleHub.uk for exclusive resources, certified online courses, and podcast content designed to support carers, teachers, and parents. Start your 14-day free trial today!
Don’t forget to like, comment, and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from these transformative insights. Together, we can create positive change!

Transforming Childhood Trauma with Sarah Naish

In this insightful episode of the Able to Care Podcast, we welcome the renowned Sarah Naish—author, speaker, and advocate for therapeutic parenting. Sarah draws from her experience as the mother of five adopted children and her extensive work in fostering and adoption support. She discusses the transformative power of trauma-informed practices and offers practical strategies for caregivers and professionals navigating the complexities of parenting children with trauma histories. Whether you're a parent, carer, teacher, or social worker, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable insights.
💡 Sponsors:
This episode is proudly sponsored by Carers Card UK, the UK's leading carers' card. Enjoy thousands of pounds worth of discounts, access to a wellbeing hub, and community support for less than the price of a box of chocolates per year. Get your card today at Carers Card UK.
📚 Resources Mentioned:
National Association of Therapeutic Parents
Sarah Naish’s books:
The A to Z of Therapeutic Parenting
The Complete Guide to Therapeutic Parenting
Tips Magazine
Therapeutic Parenting in a Nutshell
Free online resources and videos on trauma-informed parenting: Sarah Naish’s YouTube Channel
🔑 Key Messages:
The Foundations of Therapeutic Parenting:Therapeutic parenting shifts the focus from reacting to behaviours to understanding their root causes and responding with compassion and structure.
Essential Maintenance for Carers:Reframe self-care as "essential maintenance" to ensure caregivers have the resilience to support children effectively.
Trauma-Informed Practices in Education:Schools and professionals must adopt trauma-informed approaches, ensuring consistency, predictability, and empathy in their interactions with children.
⏱️ Timestamps (Chapters):
00:00 – 03:00: Introduction
03:01 – 07:00: Sarah Naish’s journey into therapeutic parenting
07:01 – 14:00: Understanding trauma-informed parenting principles
14:01 – 22:00: Addressing challenges like sleep issues and controlling behaviours
22:01 – 30:00: Importance of self-care for carers and professionals
30:01 – 38:00: Practical strategies for building trust and resilience in children
38:01 – 45:00: Trauma-informed education and cultural change in schools
45:01 – 54:00: Supporting foster and kinship carers through systemic barriers
54:01 – End: Final thoughts and Sarah’s key message: “Don’t beat yourself up—every day is a new opportunity.”
🎧 Why Listen to This Episode?
This episode provides a compassionate and practical guide to navigating the challenges of parenting and caring for children with trauma histories. With Sarah Naish’s expert advice, you'll learn how to:
Implement therapeutic parenting strategies.
Build resilience and trust in children.
Create trauma-informed environments at home, school, and beyond.
If you’re ready to rethink traditional parenting models and embrace a trauma-informed mindset, this episode is for you.
🔗 Connect with Us:
Instagram: @AbleToCarePodcast
LinkedIn: Able To Care Podcast
TikTok: @AbleToCare
Facebook: Able to Care Podcast
🔗 Explore More:
Visit AbleHub.uk for exclusive resources, certified online courses, and podcast content designed to support carers, teachers, and parents. Get your 14-day free trial today!
Don't forget to like, comment, and share this episode with anyone who might benefit from Sarah’s invaluable insights. Together, we can make a difference!

What You Need to Know About Managing Behaviour That Challenges

Are you a caregiver, educator, or parent struggling to manage behaviours that challenge? This episode of the Able to Care Podcast is packed with actionable strategies to help you navigate these situations with confidence and compassion.
Host Andy Baker shares three essential tips that can make a big difference in reducing stress, promoting positive behaviours, and improving outcomes for everyone involved.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:✅ How to Focus on Positives: Shift your mindset to encourage the behaviours you want to see, not just react to the negative.✅ The Power of Responding Over Reacting: Discover why staying calm and rational is the key to successful de-escalation.✅ Why Self-Awareness Matters: Learn how your own emotional regulation can improve interactions and outcomes.
Whether you’re managing challenging behaviours at home, in a classroom, or in a care setting, this 11-minute episode is full of practical advice to help you create positive change today.
🎧 Key Timestamps (Chapters):00:00:00 - Behaviour management tips to change your approach00:01:00 - Welcome to the Able to Care Podcast00:02:00 - Why managing distress is essential for challenging behaviours00:03:00 - Tip 1: Focus on positives—what you want to see00:05:00 - Examples of adaptive vs maladaptive behaviours00:07:00 - Tip 2: Responding over reacting—calm is contagious00:08:00 - How emotional reactions escalate situations00:09:00 - Tip 3: The importance of self-awareness and self-care00:10:00 - Recap of the top three tips and final thoughts
Resources Mentioned:
Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor): Access exclusive discounts, a wellbeing hub, and community support with Carer’s Card UK. Visit to sign up today.
Andy’s Book: Targeting the Positive with Behaviours That Challenge offers practical de-escalation strategies, insights into behaviour management, and tips to foster meaningful connections. Find it on Amazon here!
🌟 Why Listen to This Episode?Managing challenging behaviours doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Andy Baker brings decades of experience and a compassionate, practical approach to behaviour management. Tune in to discover how small changes can lead to big improvements in your care, teaching, or parenting journey.
🎙️ Subscribe to the Able to Care Podcast for more expert insights and practical advice for caregivers, educators, and advocates.
Stay Connected and InformedFollow us on social media for updates and resources:
Instagram: @abletraining
TikTok: @abletocarepodcast
LinkedIn & Facebook: Able Training
Looking for more support? Explore AbleHub.uk—your go-to resource hub for caregivers and educators. Sign up for a free 14-day trial today!
🎧 Listen NowClick play to take the first step towards building better connections, reducing distress, and empowering positive behaviour management!

Understanding Dementia: Insights from Teepa Snow

Join Andy Baker on the Able to Care Podcast as he sits down with Teepa Snow, one of the world’s foremost dementia care educators, to explore practical techniques for compassionate caregiving.
Teepa shares insights from her renowned Positive Approach to Care model, offering strategies that help caregivers connect meaningfully, respond to behavioural challenges, and support individuals with dignity and respect. This episode is packed with actionable advice for caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals working with those living with dementia. 🎧
Resources Mentioned:Carer’s Card UK (Sponsor): Enjoy exclusive discounts, wellbeing resources, and tools designed to support carers across the UK. Learn more at Carer’s Card UK.Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care: Find videos, training, and resources to enhance dementia care at teepasnow.com.
Key Messages:
Building Connection Through Positive Approach TechniquesTeepa introduces the Hand-Under-Hand technique to foster trust and mutual respect in caregiving relationships. This approach transforms caregiving into a partnership rather than a task.
Recognising and Preventing BurnoutCaregivers must prioritise their wellbeing to sustain high-quality care. Teepa shares tips for recognising burnout and finding moments of joy in caregiving.
Proactive Care Planning for Dementia ProgressionTeepa stresses the importance of planning ahead and building relationships early to adapt effectively to the changing needs of individuals living with dementia.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00:00 - IntroductionAndy introduces this episode’s sponsor, Carer’s Card UK, and the benefits of the programme.
00:02:00 - Welcome and Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to CareAndy introduces Teepa and her pioneering work in dementia care.
00:04:15 - What Makes Dementia Care Different?Teepa explains the unique challenges of supporting individuals with dementia and how caregivers can adapt.
00:08:30 - Understanding Behavioural Changes in DementiaInsights into interpreting behaviours as communication and responding with empathy.
00:12:45 - The Hand-Under-Hand TechniqueA step-by-step guide to Teepa’s foundational caregiving tool, fostering connection and collaboration.
00:18:10 - Preventing Caregiver BurnoutTeepa shares practical self-care tips and strategies for staying resilient in caregiving roles.
00:23:30 - Adapting to Changing Needs in Dementia ProgressionThe importance of proactive planning and building trust early in the caregiving relationship.
00:29:00 - Resources for Dementia CareTeepa highlights free and paid tools available through Positive Approach to Care to support caregivers.
00:31:00 - Responding to Distress and De-escalation TechniquesHow to calmly address and de-escalate situations when individuals with dementia become upset or agitated.
00:37:00 - The Role of Environment in Dementia CareTeepa discusses how lighting, noise, and furniture placement can influence behaviours and comfort levels.
00:43:00 - Finding Moments of Joy in Dementia CarePractical tips for creating joyful moments that benefit both caregivers and those they support.
00:48:00 - Breaking Down Common Caregiving MythsTeepa debunks misconceptions about dementia care and highlights the importance of empathy and flexibility.
00:52:00 - Final Advice and Key TakeawaysTeepa wraps up with her core message: focus on what remains, not what’s lost, in dementia care.
00:54:00 - Closing RemarksAndy encourages listeners to explore Teepa’s resources and shares how to stay connected with the Able to Care Podcast.
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