In a moving and honest revelation, Susie Verrill, wife of Olympic champion Greg Rutherford, has shared the family's conscious decision to occasionally keep their neurodivergent son out of school to prevent what she describes as "potential damage" to his wellbeing.
The Thoughtful Choice That's Working For Their Family
Susie explained that their family operates "a little bit differently" when it comes to school attendance, prioritising their son's emotional and mental health over strict attendance records. The mother-of-three emphasised that this approach has been crucial for their child's development and happiness.
Protecting Against Overwhelm
"We have made the decision to allow him to have days off school when we feel it's necessary," Susie revealed. She described how recognising the signs of overwhelm and acting preemptively has become an essential part of their parenting strategy for their neurodivergent child.
Breaking Down Stigma Around School Attendance
The candid discussion highlights the growing awareness among parents of neurodivergent children that traditional education systems don't always accommodate different needs. Susie's openness contributes to important conversations about flexible approaches to schooling and mental health support.
Embracing Neurodiversity in Family Life
Susie spoke passionately about accepting and celebrating their son's neurodivergence, explaining that understanding his unique needs has transformed their family dynamics. "We do things a little differently," she noted, emphasising that this acceptance has been key to their son's progress.
The family's approach reflects a broader shift in understanding neurodiversity, where accommodating different needs is seen not as making exceptions but as providing necessary support for children to thrive in their own way.
