At our 20-week scan, we were told something was wrong with our baby’s brain. Rowan is our fourth child, our fourth boy, and we thought we knew what to expect. In that moment, everything changed. The confidence we had as parents disappeared, replaced with fear of the unknown and an uncertain future.

Further scans showed that Rowan has spina bifida myeloschisis - the most severe type - meaning his spine didn’t close properly during development, causing brain abnormalities and nerve damage affecting his legs and bowel and bladder function. At 26 weeks pregnant, we were fortunate to undergo experimental fetoscopic surgery to repair his lesion. A biocellulose patch was used to protect his spinal cord, allowing the skin to close and reduce further damage. Rowan was born at 33 weeks; his spine was closed, and scans showed his brain herniation had reversed.

But the reality of Rowan’s journey has not been simple. At just six weeks old, he developed meningitis and spent a long time in hospital. He later needed further spinal surgery after a CSF leak and then went on to develop hydrocephalus, requiring a VP shunt at 18 months. Since he was born, we have faced repeated hospital stays, many of them sudden and unexpected, each one bringing its own wave of anxiety and uncertainty.

As Rowan grew, it became increasingly clear that everyday spaces weren’t built for children like him. We tried local playgroups, but he struggled to access the activities and couldn’t yet sit unsupported while other babies were crawling and exploring. I often felt isolated - unsure how to join conversations, and increasingly aware of his differences and how they set him apart.

I found Playskill through a local Facebook post and applied straight away. From our very first session, we were welcomed. For the first time, I felt Rowan truly belonged. There was no judgement, no awkward glances - just understanding and acceptance. Every child is seen for who they are, and every small “inchstone” is celebrated.

Rowan is now two years old and has attended four terms at Playskill. It has become the highlight of our week - he’s really excited on a Tuesday morning! Playskill is a place where he is supported, encouraged and given the opportunity to thrive in his own way. Activities are carefully adapted and designed to meet his needs, helping him build strength, coordination and confidence step by step.

The access to specialist support - from physiotherapists, occupational therapists and speech and language professionals - has been invaluable. Just as importantly, the training provided by Playskill means I’ve been given the knowledge and confidence to support Rowan myself, from preparing him for medical procedures through play therapy, improving his fine motor skills and advocating for him and planning for his future. The sessions from legal advisors regarding the EHCP process have been incredibly helpful.

What Playskill has given us goes far beyond therapy. It has given us a community and friends. A place where we don’t have to explain ourselves. Where other parents understand the hospital stays, the constant appointments, the exhaustion and the worry. A place where we can share wisdom and experiences, learn from each other, laugh, and sometimes just sit with a coffee and feel normal again.

For our family, the support from Playskill has been life-changing. We will always be grateful to Playskill.