About

About Sue Atkins

I’ve spent over four decades working with children, parents and schools — first as a deputy head teacher and now as a parenting expert, author and broadcaster.

I’ve seen childhood change.
I’ve watched the digital world move from optional to ever-present.
I’ve seen parents grow more anxious.
I’ve seen teachers stretched.

And I’ve also seen what works.
Calm adults.
Clear boundaries.
Respect for childhood.
And education that understands the whole child.

From Classroom to National Voice

My journey began in education, where I taught for 22 years, including as a deputy head. That experience shaped everything I do.

Today, I support families through:

My Navigating the Digital Jungle podcast

Digital parenting guides and scripts

National radio and television appearances

Conference keynotes

School consultancy

I believe parenting advice should feel practical — not preachy.
Reassuring — not alarmist.

President of Montessori UK

I am honoured to serve as President of Montessori UK.
Montessori principles — independence, respect, attention, movement and purposeful activity — are more relevant today than ever.

My leadership focus includes:

Raising the visibility of Montessori nationally
Ensuring Montessori is seen as inclusive and accessible
Bridging Montessori philosophy with modern parenting challenges
Championing Montessori for today’s childhood
Promoting Montessori for all

Early years matter profoundly. The habits formed in childhood shape mental health, resilience and learning for life.

The Digital Jungle

Technology is not the enemy.
But unexamined technology can be.

Through my work, I help parents feel confident delaying smartphones, setting safety settings collaboratively, teaching attention as a skill and protecting sleep, play and connection.

Because childhood should not be rushed.

My Approach

Warm

Clear

Balanced

Evidence-informed

Grounded in real experience

Beyond Work

I believe children spell love T-I-M-E.

And there’s no such thing as a perfect parent — only real ones doing their best.

Childhood is shaped in the ordinary, everyday moments:

eating together when we can,
reading to our children and sharing stories,
putting phones aside more often and using them more consciously,
talking and really listening,
moving our bodies in simple, everyday ways,
getting outside when we can,
and allowing childhood to unfold at its own pace.

No perfection.
Just real families, real life and enough time together for children — and parents — to blossom, bloom & thrive

Childhood deserves space & time to unfold.
And parents deserve support not judgement

Let’s Work Together

If you’re a parent, school leader, conference organiser, brand or media producer looking for thoughtful insight on parenting, education and the digital age — I’d love to connect.

Together, we can create calmer adults and more confident children.