We recently shared how therapy is woven into everyday life at MacIntyre School, helping children and young people be part of the things that matter to them most.
Across MacIntyre School and our children's homes, our therapy team works alongside teachers, families and residential staff teams, getting to know each young person and finding practical ways to support them.
In the second part of this mini-series, we explore Matthew’s story.
For Matthew, even small changes in the day could sometimes feel overwhelming.
Moving from one activity to the next, walking into a different room or not knowing what was coming next could leave him feeling anxious. In those moments, finding the words to explain how he felt wasn't always easy.
Over time, the people around Matthew have built a shared understanding of what helps.
Speech and language therapists have supported him to find words for how he's feeling, making it easier to ask for help, or look for reassurance, if needed.
Positive Behaviour Support has helped everyone understand what might make a situation feel difficult for Matthew and how predictable routines can help him feel safe. The therapy team has also worked with Matthew on a sensory routine that helps him settle into activities, while Intensive Interaction gives him space to pause, connect and reset during those quieter moments between one activity and the next.
Together, they help create a consistent experience for Matthew, wherever he is and whoever he's with.
Today, Matthew is spending more time doing the things he enjoys. He happily joins in with cooking, swimming and gardening, and spends more time with his friends and the people who know him well. Things that once felt overwhelming are becoming less intimidating, as Matthew is growing in confidence.
As the people around Matthew continue to learn what works best for him, he's finding more confidence to explore, communicate and enjoy each day in his own way.
