Hello, I’m Carol
I set up Chatterminds to support families with the ups and downs of life - especially the seasons that feel intense, exhausting, or isolating.
As a parent and an ex-teacher, my personal experiences sit at the centre of everything I do.
Why this work matters to me
When I was a child, I spent a lot of time worrying. I struggled with school and felt very anxious. Over time, that anxiety took over my life and I found it hard to sleep.
Support like this didn’t exist when I was young. What I needed most was someone to tell me I was OK - and to help me understand my feelings and how to manage them.
That experience shapes how I work now: gently, kindly, and without pressure.
My approach
I believe emotional resilience is a skill we can learn - just as important as learning to read or write. I work in a way that is practical and human. I’m not interested in perfect parenting or quick fixes. I’m interested in helping families feel steadier: less alone, less reactive, and more able to cope with real life.
My experience
I have over 20 years of teaching experience; in inner city Bristol schools, special educational needs schools and work placements in America, The Cayman Islands and Namibia. During this time, I have worked with, and taught children and young people ranging from 3 -18 years of age, often with a variety of complex needs.
My experience in the classroom has enabled me to introduce mindfulness practices to my students, with rewarding results. I have developed my knowledge and have gained qualifications from Bangor University and MiSP.
I cannot emphasise enough how much I relate to the challenges of being a parent (I have a two children). Even though I teach mindfulness and have lots of experience with children, I don’t always get it right. I value self-care and compassion, recognising that we are all human and doing the best we can. I suffered with PND after having both of my children, so I know how important it is to take care of your mind and body.
Since I have been on this mindfulness journey, as a family we have learnt to appreciate each other more and the time we spend together. We also manage stressful moments far more effectively.
Can Chatterminds help you?
Qualifications
Ba(Hons) QTS
Understanding Autistic Spectrum Disorders Certification
Outstanding Teacher Programme certification
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Teacher Training Retreat Level 2
Speech, Language & Communication Needs certification
Trained to teach .b mindfulness curriculum – Mindfulness in Schools Project
Certified teacher in mindfulness-based approaches with a specialism in MBSR from Bangor University
Trained to teach Paws .b mindfulness curriculum – Mindfulness in Schools Project
Safeguarding and Child Protection certification Level 3
“My daughter is now much better at talking about her feelings and recognising when she needs a moment to work out how she feels. She had this to say: “I like the crafts and making things, it’s really fun. The crafts are things that can help you when you feel angry or stressed. I really like Carol because she is always kind and happy and helpful. I would give her five out of five stars!”