Bonnie’s Messy Hair and Sparkly Brain

Bonnie tried her best to be organised — but when she forgot to tie up her hair for school, a classmate made a joke that left her laughing on the outside and hurting on the inside. In this heartfelt episode, girls will explore what it feels like to try and still fall short, how to process teasing, and how gentle support can help a “sparkly brain” shine. A beautiful story of understanding, resilience, and quiet strength for girls who feel like they’re always just a little behind.

Parent Conversation Guide

Why This Episode Matters:
This story honours the lived experience of children with ADHD-like traits — the emotional weight of always trying and still missing things. It gives girls tools for resilience, helps them feel seen, and encourages compassion in their peers.

Themes to Explore Together:

• The pressure of trying and still forgetting
• How teasing (even when “lighthearted”) can land deeply
• The emotional exhaustion of holding things together
• How equipping tools can empower a sparkly brain
• The quiet power of an adult who sees and speaks into their heart
  
  

Questions to Ask:

• “Have you ever felt like Bonnie — like you tried hard and still got something wrong?”
• “How did Bonnie’s teacher help her feel understood instead of ashamed?”
• “What small things help you feel more ready for the day?”
• “What do you think it means to have a sparkly brain?”
  
  

Helpful Phrases to Try:

• “I see you’re trying really hard. Let’s find a tool to help.”
• “Your brain works differently — and beautifully. Let’s learn how to care for it.”
• “You’re not behind. You’re building new ways to grow.”
  
  

Practical Tools to Explore Together:

• A “launch pad” checklist of 2–3 key items for leaving the house
• Keeping a spare hair tie or essential item in a school bag pocket
• A visual or colour-coded morning routine or map
• Gentle reminders or a buddy check-in system
  
  
  

Model It:
 Name your own missed steps with humour and grace — “Oops, forgot my keys again! That’s my sparkly brain.” This shows kids that needing strategies isn’t shameful — it’s smart.

💛 Enjoying the podcast? Support the show and help Laura keep creating free resources for mums and daughters by “buying me a coffee” buymeacoffee.com/everwonder.

OR please take a moment to leave a rating and review. It is so encouraging hearing how your daughter is growing, learning and connecting with those around her.

Both help other families find the show and reminds us that these gentle conversations really do matter.

📄 Fill out our Parent Feedback & Story Ideas Survey to share your experience and show suggestions.

For more information, or to get in touch privately, please head to www.everwonderpodcast.com

Thanks for listening — we’re so glad you’re here.