As a concerned parent, I am starting this petition to address the discriminatory behaviour policies in schools that unfairly target and punish children with additional needs.

It is crucial to implement legislation that ensure schools do not adopt a one-size-fits-all approach, but instead supports children. There has to be a more positive way to encourage to learn.  Schools need to review their behaviour policies and curriculum to accommodate the unique challenges faced by these children. They fail to meet their needs or make changes to their practice. Punishing them daily or forcing them to adapt and change themselves when they need to feel accepted. My suggested changes will help all children, not just children with disabilities. All children have the right to feel valued and heard. 

I understand this first hand as I too have ADHD and suffered a school system that failed to support my needs. I left school feeling that I wasn't academic, I had low self esteem and that there was something inherently wrong with me. 

Since my awful school experience, I have learned that I am very capable. Have studied as an adult graduated on more than one occasion. The classroom didn’t meet my needs and I found it hard to learn with so many distractions and punishment for not completing tasks fast enough.  

I have since learned that the feelings I had about myself (not feeling good enough) were not reality.  I was very capable. I didn’t believe in myself because my school constantly put me down and didn’t believe in me. If you are subjected to these negative punishable approaches, then most children give up on themselves. However, my supportive family encouraged me to do whatever made me happy. Children never fail to make me smile. So I focused my career on supporting them. 

I now have my own childcare business, I'm employed as a Director of a childcare company and I am passionate about making changes for Childrens rights and well being. The approaches used in most schools are about getting children to conform rather than empowering them, and including them in their changes. Children deserve to be listened to and have valuable contributions to offer especially around things that impact them. 

Unfortunately not everyone is able to chanel their feelings of inadequacy into determination. We need children leaving school feeling that they are capable to achieve whatever they want in life. Confident, happy children, who feel accepted for who they are, and not only valued but also listened to. 

The education system needs more holistic strategies, counselling services and a minimum requirement for staff training so there is an understanding of children’s developmental needs and of varying emotional health needs and disabilities. Ofsted should be making judgments on schools meeting these requirements. 

Ruling a school with fear and punishment doesn’t work and only creates disengaged, anxious or even angry young people.  

This petition is personal to me because my daughter was diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and sensory processing disorder. I am watching Lily have the same experience of the education system. 

ADHD significantly impacts executive functions, which include organising, prioritising, focusing, sustaining attention, controlling speed and time, memory retention, impulse control, managing emotions and frustrations/rejections, as well as sensitivity.

Unfortunately, many schools fail to recognise the complex nature of these conditions, and continue to apply disciplinary measures that are not suitable for children with additional needs. Punishing children for behaviours beyond their control only serves to undermine their self-esteem and hinder their overall development.

I was informed on a school open evening that Lily had to wear the uniform she finds uncomfortable.  She is expected to sit still all day and concentrate or she will be given comments, detentions or inclusion for the full day if she doesn't adapt to their rules, 

Teachers punishing her for forgetting things when working memory is part of her disability. Teachers yelling at her for doodling which is what calms her racing thoughts and active mind. A more effective system could be working on strategies to supporting her to remember, teaching life skills. 

It is essential for schools to shift their focus from punishment towards supporting these children, building confidence and developing coping mechanisms. By doing so, we can create an inclusive environment where every child feels valued and understood, building their confidence. 
Teaching children life skills and tools to manage their lives better as adults. 

Please help me, support me in trying to take action. I need as much support as possible. Your signatures matter. They make a difference. 

To support this cause further:

1. Research conducted by The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that approximately 9% of children aged 3-17 have been diagnosed with ADHD.
2. According to a study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry (2019), students with ADHD are more likely than their peers without ADHD to experience academic difficulties due to behavior-related issues.
3. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that students with disabilities are disproportionately subjected to disciplinary actions such as suspensions or expulsions compared to those without disabilities.
4. Numerous studies have shown that positive reinforcement strategies tailored specifically for children with additional needs lead not only to improved behavior but also to increased academic success and overall well-being.

By signing this petition, you are urging lawmakers and education authorities to take immediate action in reforming behaviour policies in schools. We demand that legislation be enacted to ensure schools provide adequate support for children with additional needs, rather than punishing them for circumstances beyond their control.

Together, let's create an inclusive educational system that fosters understanding, compassion, and equal opportunities for all children. Sign this petition today and help make a positive change in the lives of countless students with additional needs alongside all young people. 

Rebecca & Lily x