Riding the Rapids- SEND Parenting Course!

Riding the Rapids is a supportive, structured 10-week programme designed for parents and carers of children who are autistic, on the pathway to diagnosis, or have significant learning or complex disabilities.Running from 24th September to 3rd December (with a one-week break on 29th October), 1-3pm at Haslingden Primary School, the course aims to improve children’s wellbeing by helping families better understand behaviours linked to stress and distress, while building confidence in managing day-to-day challenges.Delivered over weekly sessions, the course explores different aspects of supporting children, including emotional regulation, behaviour, and family wellbeing.

At the beginning, participants identify a specific goal they want to work on and develop a personalised plan using a range of evidence-based strategies introduced throughout the programme.

To ensure families are supported in the most appropriate way, a pre-course assessment is completed before the programme begins, helping confirm the course is the right fit and that participants are ready to benefit from the learning.Parents only need to book one ticket to access the full course, covering all sessions across the programme.Research suggests that parents who attend gain practical tools to support their child more effectively, improve their own coping skills, and reduce stress levels.

The group setting also offers a valuable opportunity to connect with others in similar situations, helping reduce feelings of isolation and providing reassurance that others share similar experiences.The course is particularly suited to people who regularly care for a child with autism or learning disabilities, are looking for support with behaviours or wellbeing, and can commit to attending sessions and applying strategies between meetings across the duration of the programme.

Grandparents may also find this supportive in understanding their grandchildren.