Articles

How to Support a PDA Student During Physical Escalation at School

How to Support a PDA Student During Physical Escalation at School

How to Support a PDA Student During Physical Escalation at SchoolSarah Middleton
Published on: 25/02/2026

When a student reaches a point of physical escalation, it can feel confronting — especially when safety becomes a concern for other students and staff. These are the moments that test everyone. And they’re also the moments where the lens we use matters most.

AutismLearningADHDPathological Demand Avoidance
Supporting Students with a PDA profile: Why Sticker Charts Can Increase Anxiety

Supporting Students with a PDA profile: Why Sticker Charts Can Increase Anxiety

Supporting Students with a PDA profile: Why Sticker Charts Can Increase AnxietySarah Middleton
Published on: 11/02/2026

If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to help a young person with a PDA profile engage in something, whether that’s a learning task, participating in an activity, or even brushing their teeth, this story may feel familiar.

AutismLearningADHDPathological Demand Avoidance
Understanding PDA in the Classroom: A Nervous System Lens for Teachers

Understanding PDA in the Classroom: A Nervous System Lens for Teachers

Understanding PDA in the Classroom: A Nervous System Lens for TeachersSarah Middleton
Published on: 09/10/2025

Learn how to recognise stress, reduce overwhelm, and support PDA students with practical, nervous system-informed tools that really work.

AutismLearningADHDPathological Demand AvoidanceNeurodiversity Affirming PracticeEducationTeaching
Alternatives to zones of regulation for supporting emotional well-being

Alternatives to zones of regulation for supporting emotional well-being

Alternatives to zones of regulation for supporting emotional well-beingSarah Middleton
Published on: 01/09/2025

Exploring key elements of successfully supporting emotional well-being in the classroom - and alternatives to zones of regulation suited to neurodivergent students.

Neurodiversity Affirming PracticeEducationTeaching