You know your child is bright, kind, and capable, so why are they crumbling at school?

Whether it's constant meltdowns, missed days, or being labeled “difficult,” you're stuck between fighting for support and holding your family together. If you’ve ever typed “how to help my anxious child at school” or “how to get an EHCP”, this podcast is for you.

Welcome to The Mindful Toolbox Podcast, where I blend coaching, mindset tools, and 10+ years of frontline experience to support families navigating emotional overwhelm and educational complexity.

I’m Sarah-Lynn Hodder: teacher-turned-coach, emotional regulation strategist, and your podcast host. In this foundational episode, I explain the heart behind this podcast, the real stories that brought it to life, and what to expect moving forward.

[00:30] Why this podcast matters now more than ever—and who it’s really for

[02:50] When school refusal turns your home into a crisis zone—and why this behavior is actually communication

[04:10] Why emotional safety is the key to motivation, focus, and long-term success

[05:20] My journey: from burnt-out teacher to personal trainer, coach, and SEND tutor

[06:50] Why we’re done pretending that school refusal is just about behaviour

[07:30] The power of understanding anxiety in the body—and how it transformed how I work with kids

[11:50] Topics coming soon: emotional literacy, school avoidance, and how to build trust back at home

If today’s episode made you feel a little less alone, please share it with another family who’s facing the same silent battles.We’ll be here every two weeks, tackling the real-life challenges of parenting kids who think, feel, and learn differently.

Follow along for practical tools, compassion, and clarity you can trust.

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