Welcome to “KinToa”, a magazine where the essence of family meets the heart of bravery. Our name, a blend of ‘Kin’ and the Maori word ‘Toa’, symbolises the unyielding strength and courage that defines the journey of parent carers. It’s more than just a title; it’s our philosophy.
At KinToa, we understand the unique challenges you face as a parent carer. We know that sometimes, what you need isn’t another hand massage – the go-to at every carers meeting – but real, tangible support that addresses the realities of your everyday life. That’s why our magazine is dedicated to empowering you, reducing feelings of isolation, and bringing a spark of joy and inspiration to your routine.
KinToa is written by parent carers, for parent carers. We’re people who live this reality with you.
Why KinToa?
Because we believe in the power of shared experiences and collective wisdom. Our magazine is a safe space where laughter and learning go hand in hand. We strive to provide content that not only supports and educates but also uplifts and entertains. From practical tips on navigating the complexities of SEND caregiving to uplifting stories of resilience and triumph, we cover it all. We hope that as you read this, you will also know that we see you as more than just “mum” or “dad”.
Our mission is to make you feel seen, heard, and understood. We’re here to remind you that you’re not alone on this journey. Through KinToa, we bring together a community of individuals who share your struggles, victories, and hopes.
Each page of KinToa is infused with a spirit of camaraderie and empathy. Whether it’s a story that makes you smile, an article that sparks an “aha” moment, or a tip that makes your day a little easier, we’re here to provide that. We’re not just a magazine; we’re a companion on your path, a cheerleader for your efforts, and a witness to your incredible strength.
Join us in creating a world where every parent carer feels empowered, connected, inspired, and a little less isolated. Welcome to the KinToa family – where we’re stronger together.
Issue 1
Mar/Apr 2024
Strength of Family, Courage of Warriors
Rooted in the spirit of family and the courage of warriors, this edition brings together stories, practical advice, and uplifting content designed to resonate with the unique journey of SEND parenting.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Practical Tips: From organising essential lists every parent carer needs to understanding the value of support networks.
- Empowerment and Inspiration: Articles exploring self-care, breaking down stigma, and embracing resilience, all tailored to the realities of SEND families.
- Fun and Discovery: Inclusive gardening activities, affirmations for parent carers, and creative ideas to simplify daily life.
- Real Voices: Insightful interviews, such as the inspirational journey of Yvonne Newbold MBE, and how one parent organised SEN-friendly sessions at local venues.
Issue 2
May/Jun 2024
Empowerment, Discovery, Nourishment, Support
This edition builds on the incredible response to our launch, offering even more tools, insights, and moments of joy to empower you on your journey.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Empowerment: Articles on advocating for your child, mastering bullet journalling as a SEND parent, and tips for impactful public speaking and workshops.
- Discovery: Explore gardening activities for May and June, accessible fundraising ideas, and how to navigate information overload as a new SEND parent.
- Nourishment: Focus on emotional well-being with mindfulness through doodling, fitness for parent carers, and the benefits of self-care to boost resilience.
- Support: Learn to use ChatGPT for SEND challenges, find strategies for transition planning, and enjoy relatable stories like ‘The Chronicles of Ellie, the Parent Carer.’
This edition also introduces new voices, including Nadine Honeybone, who shares her powerful journey of raising her son with severe autism, and Lisa Gillespie, who offers insights on conscious parenting.
Issue 3
Jul/Aug 2024
Summer Survival for Parent Carers
The third edition of KinToa is packed with practical advice, inspiration, and tools to help SEND parent carers navigate the unique challenges of summer. Whether it’s finding ways to recharge or tackling the endless to-do list, this issue offers something for everyone.
Inside, you’ll discover:
- Practical Tips: A tiered approach to preparing SEND children for the return to school, decluttering guides for summer, and advice on mastering appointments and meetings.
- Inspiration and Empowerment: Insights on starting a social business, stories from real parent carers, and celebrating the strength and bravery in your daily journey.
- Summer Survival Ideas: 42 activity ideas to keep children entertained during the holidays, tips for sensory garden projects, and a fun summer swear challenge to lighten the mood.
- Relaxation and Reflection: 100 five-minute “me” moments to help you recharge, sunset and sunrise photography tips to capture the beauty of nature, and rewards to look forward to once the school term begins.
Issue 4
Sep/Oct 2024
Thriving Through Change and Connection
Packed with practical advice, heartfelt stories, and empowering tools, this edition is all about helping SEND parent carers thrive amidst the change.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Back-to-School Support: Tips to streamline routines, manage transitions, and create calm mornings. From visual schedules to organising your school calendar, we’ve got you covered.
- Empowerment & Advocacy: Learn to navigate EHC plans with confidence, connect outcomes to support, and advocate effectively for your child’s needs.
- Well-being & Resilience: Quick five-minute fitness ideas tailored for busy parent carers, mindful movement tips, and creative ways to find moments of calm amidst the chaos.
- Inspiration & Discovery: Explore the power of parent carer skills for career opportunities, uncover the beauty of autumn gardening, and dive into a review of Black Rainbow, a gripping novel that captures the unspoken truths of SEND parenting.
- Community & Creativity: Ideas for running a successful Facebook group, homemade Christmas gift inspiration, and tools like ChatGPT to make life easier for parent carers.
Issue 5
Nov/Dec 2024
A Different Kind of Christmas
The fifth edition of KinToa focuses on empowering SEND parent carers to navigate the holiday season with grace, humour, and resilience.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Holiday Survival Tips: Create calm and joy with alternative traditions, sensory-friendly gift ideas, and practical tips for managing holiday overwhelm.
- Empowerment & Advocacy: Reclaim your voice in meetings, navigate boundaries confidently, and celebrate the quiet resilience that defines parent carers.
- Moments of Joy: Explore micro-moments of happiness, from the satisfaction of finding a clean mug to the triumph of surviving festive chaos.
- Inspiration & Discovery: Learn from personal stories like Nadine Honeybone’s journey after her son moved into care, and discover how winter gardening can transform both your outlook and your space.
- Practical Resources: Tips for creating sensory survival kits, ChatGPT holiday planning prompts, and strategies for finding rest amidst the seasonal hustle.