While we were living overseas, we flew with our twins a handful of times. Whether it was a long-haul flight or a shorter trip, it often felt stressful. We were forever trying to explain things as they happened, while everyone was already tired, overwhelmed and overstimulated.

Before a family holiday to New Zealand, I decided to try something different.

I sketched out a simple social story.

For a few days before we left, we read it together. We talked about checking in, going through security, waiting, boarding the plane, the exciting parts and the boring parts too.

The difference was incredible.

Our kids weren't constantly surprised by what was happening. They'd already asked their questions at home. They knew what to expect, and the whole trip felt calmer for everyone.

Since then, I've seen the same thing over and over again.

Whether it's the dentist, making friends, starting school or trying something completely new, children cope so much better when they feel prepared.

Then, while sharing one of my first Little Ready prototypes with another mum, she smiled and said:

That conversation made me realise I wasn't the only parent carrying that mental load.