2025

This month’s SLT Top Tip is all about the power of being face to face when playing and talking with your wee people. Discover how this simple change can build connection, support understanding, and boost confidence in communication. 👀💬

Interoception is our body’s hidden sense — the way we notice hunger, thirst, temperature, pain, and emotions. In this week’s Sensory Series, we explore how interoceptive sensitivities affect daily life and share practical strategies to support neurodivergent individuals.

Can’t make it along to a NEST workshop? Don’t worry — we offer advice by phone or email, online and pre-recorded workshops, blogs, and a full resources directory through our Learn Zones.

Eye contact can feel natural for some, but overwhelming for many neurodivergent people. In this blog, we explore why eye contact can be difficult, why it should never be forced, and why avoiding it doesn’t mean someone isn’t listening. 💙

A social hangover is the exhaustion that follows social interaction. Learn what it means, how it shows up, and ways to cope.

Behind every NEST workshop, resource, and project is a dedicated team working to empower Ayrshire’s neurodiverse communities. In this post, we’re introducing the friendly faces who make NEST possible.

The first day back at school can bring excitement, nerves, and everything in between,especially for neurodivergent young people.

Discover how the Children and Young People’s Occupational Therapy Service (East) used play to raise awareness, support families

Proprioception is our “hidden sense” — helping us know where our body is and how much force we’re using. This week in our Sensory Series, we explore proprioceptive sensitivities, what they can look like, and practical ways to support neurodivergent individuals.

🌊 This August, NEST is heading to the Isle of Arran with a series of free workshops – and a special session just for professionals. From understanding neurodiversity to practical tips for supporting Autism and ADHD, there’s something for everyone. Spaces are free but limited – book your place today!

When routines shift — whether planned or unexpected — it can feel unsettling for the whole family. This post shares simple, reassuring reminders to help you navigate changes with understanding and support.

Struggling with balance, motion, or coordination? The vestibular system might be the reason. This week in our Sensory Series, we’re breaking down what vestibular processing is — and how it can impact neurodivergent individuals in everyday life.

Ready for the school year? The NEST team share their favourite back-to-school must-haves to support comfort, confidence, and neurodivergent needs in the classroom.

From missed alarms to morning meltdowns — the start of the day can be one of the hardest times for neurodivergent people. But the right morning routine can offer comfort, structure, and calm.

What helps a neurodivergent young person re-engage with learning? In Part 2 of our series on school avoidance, we explore compassionate strategies that put wellbeing and trust first — not pressure.

Some people need more time to think, and that’s okay. This month’s SLT tip is all about why processing time matters — and how waiting just 10 seconds can make a big difference.

Exam Results Day can stir up a lot of emotions—excitement, nerves, uncertainty. Whether your results went as planned or not, we want to remind you of one simple truth: your worth is not defined by a grade. 💚

Scents can soothe, alert, or overwhelm — and for many neurodivergent individuals, smell plays a bigger role than we realise. In this week’s Making Sense of Sensory post, we’re diving into the world of smell sensitivities, from scent avoiders to sensory seekers, and how we can create more comfortable environments for everyone.

When a young person avoids school, it’s easy to jump to conclusions. But behind every refusal is a story. Let’s explore what school avoidance really means, especially for those who are neurodivergent.

Why do some people love bold flavours while others stick to plain pasta? In this week’s Making Sense of Sensory blog, we explore the sense of taste — and how sensory differences can shape eating habits, mealtime stress, and how we support neurodivergent individuals with confidence and compassion.