Diverse Thinking Different Learning

We are so excited to have Lynn Greenberg join us for this edition of the show. Lynn has devoted her life to being an advocate for children as a trained attorney specializing in family law and pro bono work. When her youngest son, Jonathan, was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD, she stepped into the role of being his advocate, using her expertise to help carve a path toward his success. The experience inspired her to support neurodivergent children more broadly, and she discusses how co-writing the children's book Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure with Jonathan became a natural next step, allowing her to create characters in whom neurodivergent children can see themselves. We talk about how storytelling can help children recognize that learning differences are not flaws but are meaningful parts of who they are, one of Lynn's goals in writing two books with her son, and she reflects on her journey into advocacy. She discusses how teachers struggled to understand why a bright, curious kid like her son Jonathan, a boy who could memorize them in their entirety, had trouble reading stories. Eventually, he was diagnosed with dyslexia and ADHD, diagnoses that answered some questions while also opening doors to new challenges such as finding the right educational environment, understanding how Jonathan's brain processed language, and helping him see his differences as strengths rather than weaknesses. Lynn reflects on what those early years were like for her family, including the frustration of encountering teachers who lacked training in dyslexia and the relief of discovering a specialized school that finally taught Jonathan in a way that worked for him. That experience reshaped how Lynn viewed education, advocacy, and the importance of listening closely to what children actually need. In our conversation, Lynn talks about why storytelling can reach children in ways that traditional educational resources often can't and how thoughtful design choices (such as dyslexia-friendly fonts) make books more accessible. She also discusses why representation matters so deeply for kids who rarely see themselves reflected in stories, and she offers some encouragement for parents who are beginning their own journeys after a diagnosis. Show Notes: [2:50] - Lynn reflects on how Jonathan's delayed milestones led to dyslexia and ADHD diagnoses. [5:39] - Hear how, after inadequate school support, a specialized program truly transformed Jonathan's confidence and reading ability. [8:31] - Lynn explains how listening to children's needs and celebrating differences helped inspire creating a dyslexia-centered children's book. [11:09] - Hear why storytelling was chosen - to help neurodivergent children feel seen, understood, and represented. [14:02] - Stories and accessible design can help kids embrace differences with understanding, empathy, and pride. [15:08] - Lynn asserts that accessible design and engaging characters help readers embrace differences as strengths and superpowers! [18:32] - Hear how classroom readings spark meaningful conversations, helping children feel seen and hopeful about their differences. [21:12] - Parents should embrace their child's individuality and seek community support. [23:25] - Lynn asserts that progress requires patience, but support and perseverance lead to growth, success, and brighter futures! [25:10] - Hear how Lynn can be reached! Links and Related Resources: More Podcast Episodes Lynn & Jonathan Greenberg - Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure Lynn & Jonathan Greenberg - Suzy the ADHD Taxi and the Sightseeing Adventure Connect with Lynn: Creative Cab Company's Website Creative Cab Company's Instagram Page Creative Cab Company's YouTube Page Join Our Diverse Thinking Different Learning Community: Substack

We are so happy to have Dr. Elina Veytsman join us for this episode of the show! Dr. Elina Veytsman is a licensed psychologist and the Director of Training at the UCLA PEERS® Clinic, where she leads groups for neurodivergent youth and their caregivers while also training interns, postdocs, and professionals. She earned her Psychology degrees at UCLA and UC Riverside, researching developmental disabilities and transition experiences for youth and parents, and completed her doctoral internship providing therapy, parent training, and diagnostic assessment services. Since joining the UCLA PEERS® Clinic in 2014, she has delivered the PEERS® program in multiple settings and also provides individualized PEERS services through a private practice in Los Angeles. Dr. Elina Veytsman joins us to discuss how we help neurodivergent teens and young adults explore dating in ways that are both safe and authentic to who they are. We unpack the importance of supporting relationship development for neurodivergent youth without removing their agency or individuality, and we start off by unpacking a common misconception - that autistic or neurodivergent youth are not interested in romantic relationships. In reality, many deeply want connection but may not have been given clear, explicit guidance about the social patterns that others often learn more informally. Our conversation in this episode explores how dating skills are teachable rather than innate, and Dr. Veytsman explains that social skills such as reciprocal conversation, recognizing romantic interest, understanding boundaries, and processing rejection can be broken into concrete, observable steps. Much of the work that she discusses is grounded in research and sociological observation, with more than 75 scientific papers supporting PEERS® programming. This episode of the podcast also touches upon how social cognition, perspective-taking, and communication differences can affect dating experiences. Safety and vulnerability are also major themes that we talk about, and we discuss risks such as online exploitation, misreading friendliness as romantic interest, and the challenge of recognizing subtle social cues. Dr. Veytsman highlights that vulnerability often comes from inexperience rather than neurodivergence itself and that education about red flags, consent, and online behavior can be very protective! Our discussion also highlights the strengths-based philosophy behind PEERS®. Rather than changing identity or forcing conformity, the program focuses on expanding communication tools, building confidence, and supporting young people as they pursue relationships that feel meaningful to them. If you are a parent, clinician, or someone interested in how neurodivergent youth can approach dating with confidence and safety, then this episode is not one that you will want to miss! Show Notes: [2:44] - Dr. Veytsman explains how romantic skills often begin in adolescence, starting with friendship and learning conversation, boundaries, and recognizing shared interests. [5:24] - Dating challenges could include one-sided conversations, so the program first teaches reciprocal communication before introducing relationship-specific skills. [7:10] - Dr. Veytsman discusses how limited peer learning and social cue misunderstanding can increase vulnerability to online exploitation. [10:23] - Hear how perspective-taking and social cognition can be strengthened like a muscle with structured practice of social thinking and empathy skills. [12:20] - Early training in communication, risk awareness, and perception helps build meaningful relationships by improving social understanding and behavior awareness. [13:42] - Vulnerability often arises from limited experience; explicit education helps youth recognize manipulation, red flags, and online safety risks. [16:41] - The PEERS® program is a strengths-based, neurodiversity-respecting, and skill-building dating / social development program for neurodivergent youth! [17:11] - Preparation, coaching, and education help autistic youth build healthy relationships via learning consent, rejection, safety, and partner recognition. [19:21] - We learn that approximately 70% of participants involve parents learning to coach social skills while respecting individuals' goals. [22:52] - Hear how the program truly promotes neurodiversity, teaches social tools for connection, and encourages personal choice rather than masking. [25:16] - Dating education covers rejection, boundaries, consent, and flirting as observable, research-grounded behaviors. [27:59] - We further learn how flirting and interest are taught via low-risk signals such as eye contact, smiles, and reciprocal conversation exchanges. [30:44] - Hear why online profiles should present clear, positive, authentic information and use profile-specific messages to initiate meaningful contact. [33:13] - Caregivers can help reinforce skills with praise-based feedback, homework practice, and shared interest ac

Join us for this episode of Diverse Thinking, Different Learning as we welcome Liz Angoff Ph.D. to the podcast. Dr. Angoff is a Licensed Educational Psychologist and Diplomate in School Neuropsychology who offers assessment and consultation services for children and families in the Bay Area, California. She wrote the Brain Building Books series and Our Brains, which help neurodivergent children better understand, appreciate, and advocate for their unique minds. Learn more about Dr. Liz and her work at her Explaining Brains website. Throughout our conversation, we talk about how when one child in a family is identified as neurodivergent, the focus understandably shifts to evaluations, therapies, and advocacy, but what about the sibling who is watching it all unfold, quietly forming their own explanations about meltdowns, extra appointments, and uneven attention? We discuss why children are natural "meaning makers" and what can happen when adults leave gaps in the story. Dr. Angoff explains her approach to sharing diagnoses - starting with asking the neurodivergent child for permission before telling a sibling. Dr. Angoff also walks us through how to translate assessment results into language that kids can actually use, including her "highways and construction projects" metaphor for strengths and challenges. Hear how this shared framework reduces blame, increases empathy, and helps siblings see both themselves and each other more clearly. We also address the real questions siblings ask: Why does my brother get more attention than I do? Is this my fault? Does that mean I have it too? Dr. Angoff offers some practical scripts for validating those feelings while reinforcing a powerful message: attention may shift, but love is absolutely not divided. The conversation also covers privacy and how to treat a diagnosis as the child's story to share, as well as how to equip siblings with the language to explain differences to friends without making them responsible for managing everything. Perhaps most importantly, this episode of the show really reframes these talks as an ongoing process rather than a one-time thing. As children grow, their questions change, and so should the conversation. If you're raising neurodivergent kids and want every child in your family to feel informed, valued, and included, this discussion with Dr. Liz Angoff will surely give you the language, perspective, and practical tools to start! Show Notes: [2:40] - Dr. Angoff talks about how inviting kids into diagnostic conversations naturally raises questions about siblings. [3:00] - Without clear explanations, siblings often invent their own stories regarding what's happening. [3:43] - Early conversations can help reshape harmful narratives and prevent siblings from forming inaccurate roles. [6:00] - Dr. Angoff reflects on how families work best when kids own their story and guide what others learn. [9:36] - Dr. Angoff asserts that concrete, age-appropriate examples can help siblings grasp complicated diagnoses. [10:54] - Dr. Angoff discusses how using shared brain metaphors leads to empathy and mutual understanding between siblings. [13:08] - Highlighting strengths and "construction projects" can help siblings respond with empathy. [16:04] - Dr. Angoff explains how shared brain language reduces blame while ensuring that every child's needs matter. [19:04] - Dr. Angoff explains how openness and reassurance can help siblings feel valued despite unequal attention. [22:03] - Even when attention shifts, love remains constant and intentional! [23:23] - Dr. Angoff asserts that honest conversations can help prevent siblings from believing that they matter less. [25:30] - Families protect diagnostic privacy while equipping siblings to respond confidently! [28:54] - Descriptive explanations of behaviors can help siblings understand and support each other! [29:19] - Dr. Angoff believes that siblings should share responsibility for advocacy while also seeking adult help when overwhelmed. [30:58] - Conversations around diagnosis should happen gradually, focusing on practical and present needs. [33:04] - Hear how stories, visuals, and resources can help families explain neurodiversity in accessible ways. [34:00] - Dr. Angoff believes that empowering language around neurodivergence helps support positive family narratives and understanding. Links and Related Resources: More Podcast Episodes Episode 137: Helping Kids Understand Their Amazing Brains with Dr. Liz Angoff Connect with Dr. Angoff: Explaining Brains Dr. Angoff's Books Join Our Community: Substack

Please join us in welcoming Leslie Catlett, MS, OTR/L to the podcast! Leslie is the founder of The Penmanship Lab, where she helps children develop confident, functional handwriting skills that support real learning. As a pediatric occupational therapist and mom of two, she approaches handwriting challenges by looking beyond neatness to understand the deeper factors affecting each child. Leslie specializes in working with children with ADHD, dysgraphia, dyslexia, and autism, creating individualized, engaging strategies that make writing more accessible and meaningful. She holds a Master's degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and is deeply committed to inclusive, strengths-based learning environments. In our conversation, we discuss the complexity of handwriting and why it's so often misunderstood, with Leslie explaining that handwriting isn't just a fine motor task but a full-body, brain-heavy activity that involves posture, attention, memory, sensory processing, and emotional regulation all at the same time. For neurodivergent learners, including children with ADHD, dysgraphia, dyslexia, or autism, handwriting can be truly exhausting, frustrating, and even overwhelming, and it's rarely a matter of laziness or lack of effort. We discuss the misconceptions that slow progress signals a lack of motivation or that kids will simply "grow out of it," and why traditional practice alone often makes matters even worse. Leslie highlights how occupational therapy addresses handwriting differently by building foundational skills first, from posture and core strength to visual motor coordination and sensory regulation, before layering on handwriting itself. Progress isn't just about neater writing; it shows up first as reduced frustration, more confidence, and increased endurance. In our conversation, we also talk about practical ways parents and educators can support handwriting and fine motor development at home, with Leslie highlighting the importance of short, successful practice sessions, movement breaks, and incorporating skills into play via crafts, cooking, outdoor activities, or even Lego building. Leslie also discusses when it's time to seek professional help, pointing out that handwriting struggles often impact self-esteem, school performance, and emotional regulation. We explore the purpose behind the Penmanship Lab itself, with Leslie having created it to provide one-on-one support for children who aren't getting enough guidance in school and to help parents feel empowered rather than guilty when their child struggles. She shares how addressing handwriting early can support not only academic success but also everyday independence, from buttoning shirts to tying shoes. Our conversation offers a practical guide for anyone wanting to understand, support, and celebrate children's unique learning needs! Show Notes: [2:30] - Handwriting is complex - requiring motor, sensory, attention, memory, and endurance skills simultaneously. [5:19] - Hear how dysgraphia stems from neurological differences, so practice alone doesn't improve handwriting without foundational support. [8:42] - Leslie discusses how handwriting engages the brain differently than typing, often improving confidence and emotional regulation first. [10:56] - Leslie explains how short, playful activities and motor work strengthen handwriting skills and maintain student engagement. [13:19] - Hear how early intervention can help prevent frustration. [16:16] - Short, daily handwriting practice improves skills, confidence, and behavior without causing parental blame. [18:32] - Leslie reveals how The Penmanship Lab fills gaps schools leave, providing one-on-one handwriting support for literacy development. [20:10] - Daily self-care tasks rely on fine motor skills, linking handwriting to broader functional independence. Links and Related Resources: Episode 39: Why Fine Motor Skills Matter with Jennifer Morgan Episode 219: Understanding Dysgraphia: Signs, Strategies, and Support for Struggling Writers Connect with Leslie: The Penmanship Lab's Website Email: [email protected]

I am so happy to welcome Dr. Ellen Braaten back for her third time on the show! In case you missed those episodes and/or need a refresher, Dr. Ellen Braaten is the founding director of the Learning and Emotional Assessment Program at Massachusetts General Hospital and an associate professor at Harvard Medical School. She is a prolific researcher and author whose work focuses on ADHD, learning disorders, child psychopathology, processing speed, intelligence, and children's motivation, including bestselling books for parents and professionals. Deeply committed to public education, she frequently speaks on child mental health topics and contributes to both local and national media. In our conversation, we talk about why unmotivated kids rarely fit neatly into a single category, with Dr. Braaten explaining that children may struggle with motivation for a variety of reasons, such as cognitive overload, emotional fatigue, repeated failure, or even a lack of clear identity. She also explains why framing these challenges as brain-based skills, rather than personal failings, can help change the way parents and clinicians respond. We also discuss the narrowing of opportunities in schools today, why kids need space to discover their own strengths beyond academics and athletics, and how uncomfortable emotions such as shame, anxiety, or regret can silently block motivation. Dr. Braaten's workbook is designed not just for children but for the adults supporting them, and she shares how parents, teachers, and therapists can use its activities to spark meaningful conversations, assess where a child gets stuck, and offer guidance without shame. It's about collaboration, not enforcement, and about helping kids take ownership of their growth while navigating setbacks safely. This episode of the show will surely resonate with anyone supporting tweens and teens, whether you're a parent, educator, or clinician, and offers strategies to help young people (and even adults) rediscover what matters to them, reclaim their motivation, and move forward with confidence! Show Notes: [2:09] - Hear how Dr. Ellen Braaten realized poor motivation affects everyone, especially during stressful, sleep-deprived times. [5:40] - Motivation consists of initiation, persistence, and desire, and can be treated as a learnable skill. [7:56] - Dr. Braaten discusses how kids today struggle to find identity due to overwhelming choices and early specialization pressures. [9:52] - Dr. Braaten argues that strengths extend beyond academics and sports, yet schools rarely provide opportunities to explore diverse talents. [11:51] - Hear how setbacks, injuries, or missed guidance can lead to regret. [13:44] - Breaking motivation into initiation, intensity, and persistence can help kids, parents, and clinicians clarify obstacles. [16:28] - Dr. Braaten points out how even small changes, like better sleep, improve motivation. [18:04] - Parents should balance support and independence, empowering children while preventing guilt or overwhelming hovering. [21:18] - Anxiety and post-pandemic habits have reduced face-to-face engagement, creating cycles that undermine motivation. [23:04] - Dr. Braaten's workbook is best used with adults as guides, sparking conversations about identity and priorities. [26:05] - Hear how to contact Dr. Braaten. Links and Related Resources: Episode 61: Slow Processing Speed with Dr. Ellen Braaten Episode 107: How to Motivate Kids Who Couldn't Care Less with Dr. Ellen Braaten Dr. Ellen Braaten & Hillary Bush - The Motivation Mindset Workbook: Helping Teens and Tweens Discover What They Love to Do Connect with Dr. Ellen Braaten: Dr. Ellen Braaten's Website

We are joined in this episode by Stacey Shubitz, K-6 literacy consultant, a former elementary school teacher, and the co-founder of the Two Writing Teachers blog and podcast. Her forthcoming book, Make the School System Work for Your Child with Disabilities: Empowering Kids for the Future, empowers parents to navigate the special education system. In this episode, we talk openly about what it really takes to support a child with learning challenges in today's school system. Drawing from decades of experience on both sides of the table, Stacey shares why she wrote Make the School System Work for Your Child with Disabilities and what she wishes someone had told her when she was first trying to make sense of evaluations, IEP meetings, and endless paperwork. Our conversation centers on some of the practical mindset shifts that can help change everything for families, with Stacey explaining why leading with a child's strengths and not just their needs is so important for confidence and motivation. She also addresses disability language head-on, discussing why it is that naming disability isn't limiting but instead opens doors to services, legal protections, and access that families often don't realize they're entitled to. Throughout the episode, we highlight how knowledge of data, timelines, rights, and documentation can shift the power dynamic and help parents advocate more effectively. We offer some concrete guidance on when to push for evaluations, why waiting too long can do a lot of harm, and how to ask for progress data without feeling confrontational. Stacey also shares what makes IEP meetings feel collaborative instead of adversarial, from simple preparation strategies to small human touches that ease tension. Communication comes up again and again: how approaching teachers with curiosity, clarity, and respect can lead to better outcomes for kids! Stacey also speaks candidly about burnout, emotional exhaustion, and why joy isn't optional but protective. This conversation offers reassurance, realism, and a clear-eyed look at how parents can show up informed, empowered, and grounded while advocating for their children. Show Notes: [2:32] - Hear how Stacey's experiences with IEPs inspired her to help other parents. [4:04] - Stacey describes leading with strengths, not just challenges or disabilities. [6:03] - Highlighting positives alongside challenges helps children see themselves as capable. [9:42] - Stacey argues that children should know their rights and services so that they can advocate for themselves. [12:49] - It's so important for parents to monitor progress, request data, and push for evaluations when their child isn't advancing. [14:58] - Stacey adds that it's also essential to advocate firmly and request evaluations when interventions aren't producing results. [16:20] - Preparing for meetings with clarity, human touches, and understanding who's present can help make discussions more productive. [19:44] - Coming to meetings prepared with documents in advance helps balance power and supports advocacy. [23:04] - Stacey discusses how reviewing IEPs in advance can help ensure more effective teacher interactions. [25:00] - Approaching teachers with curiosity and gathering accurate information helps promote calm, productive conversations around school. [28:18] - Stacey gives an example of how being open about personal struggles allows teachers to provide better support for children. [30:33] - Stacey asserts that assuming positive intentions about teachers helps lead to collaboration and avoids unnecessary conflict. [32:07] - Stacey wishes that she had known sooner how important it is to read the procedural safeguards book to understand parental rights and timelines. [34:12] - Stacey expresses that she has learned that intentionally curating joy and connection can help prevent burnout. [37:05] - Joy is a legitimate form of intervention. Links and Related Resources: Stacey Shubitz - Make the School System Work for Your Child with Disabilities: Empowering Kids for the Future Episode 164: 5 Keys to Productive IEPs with April Rehrig Episode 238: Dismantling DEI and the Department of Education: How Changes Impact Your Child with Vickie Brett & Amanda Selogie Episode 246: Accommodations, Modifications, or Remediation? How to Know What Your Child Really Needs with Amy Cushner Connect with Stacey Shubitz: Stacey's Website Email: [email protected] Stacey's Substack Two Writing Teachers Website

We happily welcome Dr. Allie Ticktin to Diverse Thinking Different Learning! Dr. Ticktin is dedicated to helping children and their families thrive through sensory-based play, having founded Play 2 Progress and writing Play to Progress, introducing parents to all eight senses and offering practical ways to support them at home. Blending child development science with playful learning, Dr. Ticktin focuses on building kids' confidence and supporting their growth across emotional, social, physical, and academic areas. At the core of her philosophy is the belief that empowering parents from the very beginning is the best way to set children up for lifelong success! Throughout our conversation, we explore the topic of sensory processing and sensory motor integration - often misunderstood but nevertheless foundational to how children learn, regulate, and thrive. Dr. Ticktin, an occupational therapist and author, explains that sensory processing involves more than just the five basic senses, that there are actually eight senses that children need to effectively process, including the "hidden" senses of vestibular, proprioceptive, and interoceptive! Dr. Ticktin highlights the fact that sensory issues are not simply behavioral problems but are rather neurological differences in how a child's brain processes sensory information. This can manifest in various ways, from being overly sensitive to certain textures to having trouble regulating emotions and attention. She stresses the importance of reframing these challenges as differences in sensory processing, rather than just automatically resorting to labeling them as "bad behavior." As we discuss, an especially important part of supporting children with sensory needs is teaching them to recognize and communicate their needs, and Allie discusses "body tools" - often referred to as fidget spinners or sensory toys - and how empowering children to identify and use whatever tools help them self-regulate can dramatically improve their ability to focus, learn, and interact socially. Our discussion also covers how sensory integration therapy can positively affect not just motor skills but also social-emotional functioning, with Dr. Ticktin reflecting on how she has seen children learn to self-regulate and even start advocating for their sensory needs and those of their peers. Our discussion provides you with a comprehensive overview of sensory processing, its importance in child development, and effective strategies for supporting children with sensory needs via a collaborative approach based on children's strengths! Show Notes: [2:29] - Sensory processing involves eight senses, not just tactile experiences such as messy play. [5:10] - Dr. Ticktin argues that a child's sensory system forms the unseen "roots" supporting all higher developmental skills. [7:05] - Some kids struggle to filter irrelevant sensory input, resulting in classrooms feeling overwhelming. [9:08] - Dr. Ticktin points out that many "bad behaviors" actually stem from unsatisfied sensory needs. [11:28] - Dr. Ticktin explains how "body tools" can help children self-regulate, reducing behavioral issues via sensory support. [13:30] - Sensory inputs can raise or lower excitement depending on how the child processes them. [17:38] - Misread behaviors in daily tasks might signal underlying sensory-motor challenges. [18:22] - Hear how sensory issues can appear as rough play, clumsiness, withdrawal, or shutdowns. [21:09] - Dr. Ticktin argues that self-regulation often crosses over with sensory needs. [24:49] - Young kids may tantrum from sensory overwhelm because they lack the language to explain their feelings. [25:12] - Dr. Ticktin explains how teaching kids to "empty their bucket" prevents overload, very similar to adults managing stress. [28:33] - Learn how play-based therapy strengthens sensory foundations with purposeful activities appearing as simple play. [31:54] - Excessive screen time limits ideation, rendering open-ended, unscheduled play especially important for development. [33:25] - Consistent family involvement is so important, since progress relies on using tools beyond therapy sessions. [36:14] - Dr. Ticktin encourages listeners to buy her book. Links and Related Resources: Episode 42: Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder with Courtney Duckworth-Harris, MA, OTR/L Episode 72: Prioritizing Co-Regulation and Self-Regulation in Communication with Danielle G. Kent M.S., CCC-SLP Episode 221: Would a Behavioral Aide/Shadow Help My Child? Episode 233: Body-Based Interventions for Neurodivergent Students with Megan Beardmore, PhD, NCSP Allie Ticktin - Play to Progress: Lead Your Child to Success Using the Power of Sensory Play Connect with Dr. Allie Ticktin: Play2Progress Website Phone: (323) 782-3331

We are happy to welcome back Jaime Porras for this episode! Jaime Porras is the District Vice President for Fusion Academy, overseeing nine campuses across Los Angeles and Santa Barbara. With more than two decades in education (including fourteen years at Fusion), he has held roles from teacher to Head of School and is passionate about fostering student-centered, relationship-driven learning environments. He holds an MA in Education with a focus on Social Justice from Antioch University Los Angeles and a BA in English from Ohio State University. A proud Buckeye and Culver City resident, Jaime enjoys sports, travel, literature, and discovering the best tacos in L.A., where he lives with his wife and daughter. Jaime joins us for this episode to discuss how the 1:1 learning model at Fusion Academy has become increasingly important in recent years as students have faced growing challenges with anxiety and depression, and disengagement. He explains that the pandemic drastically worsened many students' struggles with executive functioning and social anxiety but how, in a 1:1 setting, Fusion is able to provide a safe, supportive space where students can rebuild their confidence and reconnect with learning. By removing the pressure and comparison of a traditional classroom, students feel safer to take risks, make mistakes, and grow. Jaime highlights the importance of building a strong mentor-student relationship in which the teacher can truly understand and cater to each individual's unique needs, interests, and learning style, a personalized approach that also helps address issues around executive functioning, as Fusion teachers break down assignments into manageable steps while also explicitly modeling positive behaviors and social-emotional skills. Jaime notes that the 1:1 environment allows students the space to process feelings of failure in a healthy way without judgment from their peers. At the same time, Fusion works to build a sense of community and belonging via shared social spaces and activities, although the focus remains on creating an environment customized for each student's needs. Jaime believes that this model will only become more important in the years ahead as schools grapple with the lasting impacts of the pandemic on student mental health and engagement. Our conversation highlights how the 1:1 approach at Fusion Academy empowers students to rebuild their confidence and reconnect with their strengths even in the face of significant challenges. As the education landscape continues to evolve, this model may serve as an important blueprint for supporting the diverse needs of today's learners! Show Notes: [2:27] - Jaime describes how post-pandemic isolation worsened student anxiety and depression while boosting demand for 1:1 learning. [5:59] - 1:1 environments reduce social pressure and allow teachers to address each student's unique needs. [9:00] - Jaime stresses that individualized settings can lead to belonging, safety, and feelings of mattering. [12:08] - Learning begins with love and rapport, creating trust before taking on executive functioning challenges. [14:01] - Jaime explains how executive functioning develops with maturity, so Fusion Academy celebrates incremental progress. [17:11] - Jaime notes how 1:1 settings allow students to process failure safely and quickly recover. [19:41] - Fusion removes traditional school obstacles, focusing on individualized support without judgment. [22:37] - 1:1 learning suits kids who need safety, personalization, and emotional comfort. [23:08] - Jaime highlights Fusion's flexibility to adjust instantly for each student's needs. [25:21] - Jaime compares Fusion's structure to private lessons that separate focused learning from broader social experiences. [27:46] - Small-group environments let students more easily build real friendships and resolve conflicts. [29:48] - Jaime criticizes traditional schools for pressuring kids into activities that adults rarely pursue. [31:53] - Hear Jaime share a student's gradual growth from isolation to leadership, proving that patience and personalization can lead to confidence. [35:19] - Jaime predicts that 1:1 education will shape all schooling by highlighting growth over conformity. [38:30] - Where can Jaime be reached? Links and Related Resources: Episode 52: How a 1:1 Instruction Model Helps Students with Jaime Porras and Vailet Yarijanian Episode 154: Why Self-Efficacy and Self-Advocacy are Important for Diverse Learners with Ashley Harding Episode 189: The Private School Option for Kids with Learning Differences with Collette Bowers Zinn Episode 243: From Inclusion to Belonging: Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools with Amanda Morin Connect with Jaime Porras: Fusion Academy Website

For this edition of the show, we warmly welcome Joan Green! Joan Green, M.A., CCC-SLP, is a speech-language pathologist, assistive technology specialist, and founder of Innovative Speech Therapy in the Washington, DC area. For nearly 40 years, she has helped people of all ages (especially neurodiverse learners) use technology to enhance communication, learning, and independence. Passionate about accessibility and innovation, Joan also educates families and professionals on how everyday tech and AI can change our daily lives. Our conversation explores how technology, including AI-powered tools, can be used to help support neurodivergent students in learning, communicating, and thriving, with Joan explaining that her passion for this work began in the 1980s when she saw how early computer software could dramatically improve outcomes for her adult patients with neurological conditions. She then expanded her focus to helping families and students, motivated in part by her own experiences as a parent. We highlight how many accessibility features and free tools built into common devices and platforms can provide incredibly crucial support for students who struggle with reading, writing, organization, or focus, with Joan stressing the importance of tailoring solutions, whether it's adjusting text-to-speech settings or finding the proper app or extension. She cautions against oversimplifying the process, as each student's needs are unique. Our discussion also touches upon the complex role of AI and advanced technology in education. Joan sees tremendous potential for AI to personalize learning and free up teachers to focus on higher-level instruction. She also voices some concerns about overreliance on it. Her approach is to position AI as a "thought partner" that can enhance and augment human learning rather than replace it. Throughout the conversation, Joan also shares some practical tips and resources, including her free 15-minute consultations and her ongoing Tech Life Inner Circle program, which provides weekly training and collaborative problem-solving sessions. Our conversation in this episode truly highlights the power of technology to bridge gaps and amplify the voices of neurodivergent students - but only when used with intention and mindfulness! Show Notes: [2:31] - Hear how Joan began using early computer software with stroke patients and saw technology speed up recovery. [5:11] - Joan stresses the importance of beginning with free, built-in assistive tools such speech-to-text, read-aloud, and captions. [7:45] - Hear how Joan helps people choose the right reading and speech tools and offers free tech consultations. [11:17] - Joan believes that AI can aid in learning when used thoughtfully, but worries about shortcuts and privacy concerns. [13:32] - While Joan values AI as a creative learning tool, she also stresses the importance of actual understanding and critical thinking. [15:02] - AI can be a great way to personalize learning. [17:04] - Hear how Joan uses AI to personalize lessons around students' interests while still thinking critically herself. [18:55] - Joan explains how she offers collaborative one-on-one tech sessions, which identify struggles. [20:47] - Joan runs the very affordable Tech Life Inner Circle, providing weekly tutorials, recordings, and live tech brainstorming. [23:53] - Tech Possibility Academy teaches essential, easy-to-implement tools for parents, educators, and lifelong learners. [26:42] - Joan stresses technology's necessity for independence while also acknowledging its downsides. [29:39] - Where can Joan be reached? Links and Related Resources: Episode 142: How to Help Neurodivergent Kids Manage Social Media Episode 177: How Understanding the Adolescent Brain Helps Us Better Support Teens Episode 241: How to Be a 'Screen-Smart Parent with Jodi Gold, MD Connect with Joan Green, M.A., CCC-SLP: Innovative Speech Therapy Main Website Tech Life Inner Circle IST Tech Savvy Solutions Facebook Group

Joining us for this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Dr. Viannae Nelkin. Dr. Viannae Nelkin is a board-eligible pediatric neuropsychologist and founder of The Children's Neuropsychology Center. She earned her master's and doctorate in clinical psychology, training at top institutions including Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Cedars-Sinai, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, and Children's Hospital of Orange County. Her work focuses on early intervention, neurodiversity-affirming care, and empowering families to help their children thrive. Deeply committed to supporting children with neurological and genetic conditions, she will soon return to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center to continue her specialized work. ​​This conversation explores understanding the brain's remarkable ability to grow and adapt (its neuroplasticity) and how it can help shape how parents, educators, and clinicians support children with learning differences. Rather than viewing assessments as an endpoint, we discuss how each evaluation is a starting point or a roadmap revealing a child's unique learning profile and potential for growth. Dr. Nelkin describes neuroplasticity as the brain's superpower, an ongoing ability to form and strengthen neural pathways throughout life. She explains that learning differences are not signs of inability but are rather reflections of how differently each brain processes information. Through this lens, interventions aren't "fixes" for broken systems but are instead workouts for the brain - strategic ways to build new connections and reinforce weaker ones. Throughout our conversation, we highlight why early intervention is so important. The first few years of life are a critical window for development when neural connections form rapidly and learning experiences leave lasting imprints. However, families are too often told to "wait and see," delaying support until challenges have really taken a toll on a child's confidence, motivation, and emotional well-being. Dr. Nelkin highlights that early intervention can change that trajectory and can help kiddos not only catch up academically but also develop resilience and self-assurance. Our discussion challenges the stigma surrounding assessment and diagnosis. We stress that an evaluation doesn't define a child's limits but rather brings their strengths and needs to light so that educators and parents can customize support. We also discuss the incredible importance of collaboration between neuropsychologists, teachers, and caregivers. As Dr. Nelkin reminds us, the most powerful word in a child's journey is "yet" - they haven't mastered it yet, but with the right support, their potential is truly limitless! Show Notes: [2:33] - Dr. Viannae Nelkin highlights the importance of neuroplasticity to focus on children's potential rather than labels. [4:00] - Dr. Nelkin offers a comprehensive definition of neuroplasticity. [6:13] - We learn why Dr. Nelkin regards interventions as extra workouts for the brain. [9:20] - How can neuroplasticity be nurtured? [11:12] - Dr. Nelkin regards neuroplasticity as the brain's superpower. [14:14] - Dr. Nelkin argues for reframing stigma around assessments and collaborating between neuropsychologists, teachers, and parents. [17:42] - Early academic intervention helps diverse learners catch up and prevents later mental health struggles. [20:20] - Building strong early learning foundations can help prevent future academic difficulties. [21:57] - Dr. Nelkin explains how early educators can identify learning differences and apply strengths-based interventions to help kids. [24:12] - Dr. Nelkin loves helping very young children. [26:53] - Hear how specialists support children's learning at different stages using evidence-based strategies. [29:33] - Dr. Nelkin reiterates the importance of early intervention. [33:51] - Dr. Nelkin explains how learning and emotional challenges affect development. [36:48] - Assessments help reveal why a child struggles and provide parents with hope and understanding. [37:30] - Dr. Nelkin highlights and explains the importance of the power of "yet." Links and Related Resources: Episode 185: Late Diagnosis: Why Did I Get Missed? with Dr. Monica Blied Episode 203: ADHD and the Gut-Brain Connection: Exploring Integrative Treatments with Sara Langley, MSN, PMHNP-BC Episode 214: Private Neuropsychological Evaluation vs. School Evaluation Episode 215: How to Support Students Who Struggle with Reading Comprehension - with Dr. Emily Levy Episode 233: Body-Based Interventions for Neurodivergent Students with Megan Beardmore, PhD, NCSP Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our "When Struggles Overlap" Live Webinar Email Dr. Wilson: [email protected] Connect with Dr. Viannae Nelkin: Dr. Viannae Nelkin's ChildNEXUS Page The CNPC Website

We happily welcome Dr. Adi Soffer to Diverse Thinking Different Learning this week! Adi Soffer, PsyD is a licensed psychologist who works with children, teens, and families, and she combines family structure therapy with evidence-based practices to help families strengthen communication, establish healthy boundaries, and deepen emotional connections. Passionate about guiding parents and children through challenges such as anxiety, behavioral issues, and major life changes, Dr. Soffer offers care via her private practice, Kesher Psychological Services. She sees clients in Los Angeles and provides virtual sessions throughout California and Florida. When a child is struggling with learning, behavioral, or emotional challenges, the focus is often on finding the right therapy for the child. However, as Dr. Adi Soffer explains, this approach may be missing an important piece - the family system. She firmly believes that families function as interconnected systems, and when one member is struggling, the whole system feels the impact. By shifting the focus from fixing the child to strengthening the entire family system, families can reduce stress, improve relationships, and lead to better outcomes for kids and teens. Dr. Soffer outlines her approach to family systems therapy, bringing the entire family into the first session, not just "the identified patient." Instead of discussing the child's problems, she asks questions about the family's dynamics, traditions, and what they would like to change. This allows her to observe the family's communication patterns, boundaries, and power dynamics. She also highlights the importance of understanding the family's structure and communication style, as these factors can deeply impact a child's emotional well-being and behavior. Dr. Soffer explains how poor communication, conflict avoidance, or unclear expectations can contribute to ongoing stress at home, which in turn affects the child. By working with the family, however, she helps them develop healthier communication and set clear expectations and boundaries. This, in turn, can reduce the child's anxiety and stress, as they no longer have to worry about the unpredictability of their home environment. We also explore how the family systems approach shifts when working with teenagers, who are often pushing for more independence, with Dr. Soffer discussing the importance of balancing the teen's need for autonomy with the family's need for involvement and how this can create an environment of empathy and connection within the family. Overall, we highlight the powerful impact that a family systems approach can have on supporting children and teens struggling with various challenges. By addressing the entire family system, therapists can create lasting change and help the whole family thrive. Show Notes: [3:03] - Hear how Dr. Adi Soffer begins therapy by including the entire family system rather than isolating the child. [6:43] - Dr. Soffer observes family dynamics via structured activities, games, and collaborative drawing. [9:32] - Family therapy examines communication, boundaries, and where each member fits in the relational hierarchy. [12:21] - Dr. Soffer makes the case that clear routines and consistent boundaries reduce chaos and help children feel secure and less anxious. [14:29] - Parents often unintentionally reinforce anxiety by teaching children that the world is frightening. [16:27] - Therapy highlights how children's struggles often reflect parental triggers and emotional challenges. [19:29] - Removing the "identified patient" label eases a child's burden and reduces family pressure. [20:13] - Dr. Soffer argues that constant focus on negative behavior teaches children to internalize damaging beliefs about themselves. [22:02] - Teens need both autonomy and clear parental boundaries to be successfully independent. [25:28] - Families begin to align as a team when therapy highlights shared responsibility and individual identity. [27:39] - Dr. Soffer explains how emotional Jenga can help parents model vulnerability and normalize healthy emotional expression for children. [30:27] - Hear how a teen realized that his parents' feelings mattered too after returning from a month away. [32:34] - Dr. Soffer argues that parents build resilience by balancing support with boundaries and not over-accommodating their kids. [35:09] - A parent's real role is preparing children to face failure, rejection, and life's challenges. [36:18] - It's important for children to face discomfort and uncertainty instead of being shielded by anxious parents. [39:18] - Dr. Soffer asserts that focusing on family strengths can transform household dynamics and improve the overall atmosphere. [40:38] - How can Dr. Soffer be reached? Links and Related Resources: "Anxiety and the Family" Episode 167: From Surviving to Thriving: A Mom's Hierarchy of Needs and Well-Being with Leslie Forde Episode 202: How Low-Demand Parenting Can Reduce Stress and Support Ne

For this episode of the show, we are joined by Amy Cushner! Amy has dedicated more than 30 years to the Shelton School and a lifetime to advocating for neurodivergent individuals, infusing passion, humor, and wisdom into every stage she graces. From classrooms in Dallas to conferences in China, she has become a sought-after voice championing inclusive, strengths-based approaches across both education and business.. In this episode, Amy breaks down the important differences between accommodations, modifications, and remediation in the education system, explaining how these terms are often used interchangeably but have distinct purposes that can significantly impact a child's learning journey. Amy discusses the historical context, which traces back to Thomas Jefferson's vision for public education and the challenges of the "Goldilocks effect," ensuring the right fit for every student. She highlights why it's so important to understand the "magic number" that determines when remediation is provided, highlighting that the need for support does not disappear just because a student falls short of the threshold. Amy stresses the importance of understanding important distinctions as they have major implications for a student's educational journey, particularly when it comes to college and career choices, and she also emphasizes the crucial role of early intervention and the empowerment of students to self-advocate, using visual cues and clear communication about their accommodations. Throughout our conversation, Amy shares some valuable insights and practical advice for parents and educators, highlighting the need for a collaborative approach and the recognition that every child's learning journey is unique. Show Notes: [3:21] - Amy Cushner traces public education's evolution from Jefferson to modern challenges in individualized learning. [6:54] - Students often get accommodations when remediation or intervention is truly required. [7:12] - Amy criticizes rigid "magic number" cutoffs for remediation, calling them unfair and financially motivated. [9:13] - Accommodations, Amy explains, provide classroom access without altering expectations or content. [11:18] - Amy contrasts accommodations with modifications, which lower expectations to match processing or cognitive challenges. [13:54] - Amy highlights knowing accommodation vs. modification and likens it to learning another country's customs. [15:12] - Remediation can help develop missing skills caused by neurological learning differences, not intellectual deficits. [17:31] - Research shows us that remediation builds entirely new neural pathways, effectively rewiring students' brains. [20:17] - When schools won't fund remediation, parents have to seek external diagnoses and licensed therapists. [23:19] - Hear how true remediation requires trained therapists. [26:45] - Remediation needs to be paired with accommodations like audiobooks for full access. [27:39] - Amy explains how modifications alter curriculum expectations, influencing future school and college options. [30:02] - Amy suggests that teachers can use accommodations across the board to help build learning from the ground up. [32:32] - Starting instruction too high frustrates students, while accommodations let them build confidence gradually. [34:59] - Educational advocates help parents navigate laws, testing, and school obligations, helping to ease parental burdens. [38:10] - Timely intervention prevents years of lost learning caused by eligibility cutoffs. [41:21] - Amy encourages early remediation and teaching children to self-advocate for their accommodations. [44:29] - Honest conversations can help kids avoid developing inaccurate, damaging narratives about struggles. [45:48] - Amy reframes nonstandard brains as strengths that offer unique ways of seeing the world. [47:02] - What is the best way to get in touch with Amy Cushner? Links and Related Resources: "How to Initiate a Special Education Assessment" Episode 109: "IEP and 504 Plan Q&A with Vickie Brett and Amanda Selogie" Episode 164: "5 Keys to Productive IEPs with April Rehrig" Episode 218: "Understanding IEPs and 504 Plans: Which One Is Right for Your Child? - Marisol Chianello" Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our "When Struggles Overlap" Live Webinar Email Dr. Wilson: [email protected] Connect with Amy Cushner: Amy's LinkedIn Page Phone: 972-855-8949 Email: [email protected]

Joining us for this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Rana Lustyan! Rana Lustyan is the founder of Growing Minds Coaching, where she helps students with learning differences develop confidence, independence, and academic achievement. She combines strength-based coaching, neuroscience-informed methods, and practical executive function tools to create personalized routines that last. Rana shares her personal journey with ADHD and how it inspired her to help students, especially girls and young women, build the essential life skills needed for lasting confidence and independence. She explains that executive functioning coaching is distinct from educational therapy or tutoring; it is a dynamic, strengths-based approach that helps individuals develop practical skills around planning, organization, time management, task initiation, and more. Rana's POSITIVE acronym outlines the key areas of focus, from prioritizing goals to evaluating progress! The coaching process involves an in-depth intake to understand the student's unique challenges and strengths, followed by weekly 45-minute sessions and regular accountability check-ins. Rana highlights the importance of building trust and meeting the student where they are, often sharing her own experiences to help them feel understood and supported. Rana's approach includes periodic family team meetings to celebrate wins and address any additional concerns, with the ultimate goal of autonomy and equipping students with the tools to manage their lives independently. She also discusses the phasing-out process, where support is gradually reduced as the student gains confidence and mastery. Whether struggling with procrastination, perfectionism, or emotional regulation, Rana's executive functioning coaching can be helpful, especially for girls and young women with ADHD. Show Notes: [3:02] - Rana explains how executive function coaching builds strengths-based strategies for planning, time management, autonomy, and lifelong resilience. [6:33] - Girls often go undiagnosed with ADHD, masking symptoms through perfectionism, overwork, and internal hyperactivity. [8:54] - Acronyms such as POSITIVE help students remember EF skills such as planning, self-advocacy, and initiation. [11:39] - Task initiation, time management, and visualization strategies support students in overcoming procrastination and distractions. [14:36] - Intake sessions can help gather detailed family, academic, and personal context to build trust and customize coaching. [16:14] - Rana argues that students gain confidence via productive first sessions and ongoing check-ins between weekly meetings. [18:45] - As a coach, Rana validates feelings while guiding students toward solutions parents often mishandle. [20:55] - Executive function struggles may include procrastination, perfectionism, rigidity, emotional regulation issues, and burnout risks. [23:56] - Misinterpreting EF challenges as laziness or lack of motivation delays vital support, especially for girls. [25:19] - Rana argues that family team meetings celebrate student wins, build autonomy, and align goals between parents and children. [28:24] - Rana's 16-session model promotes autonomy via flexible, individualized coaching cycles. [31:07] - EF coaching normalizes struggles, strengthens family bonds, and equips students for lifelong growth. [34:43] - Rana offers resources and consultations through Growing Minds Coaching's website and direct email contact! Links and Related Resources: Episode 11: Executive Functioning 101 Episode 99: Straight Talk About ADHD in Girls with Dr. Stephen Hinshaw Growing Minds Coaching - Executive Functioning Skills Coaching: What Parents Should Know Growing Minds Coaching - Downloads & Worksheets Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our "When Struggles Overlap" Live Webinar Email Dr. Wilson: [email protected] Connect with Rana Lustyan: Rana's ChildNEXUS Profile Rana's Instagram Profile

Joining us for this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Leslie Forde! ​​Leslie is the CEO and Founder of Mom's Hierarchy of Needs® and soon-to-be published Author of Repair with Self-Care: Your Guide to the Mom's Hierarchy of Needs. Her business provides evidence-based tools to help moms reclaim their time and well-being from the never-done-list while also helping employers retain working parents and caregivers. Since March of 2020, over 3,700 parents have participated in her research study (the longest-running of its kind) on the pandemic's ongoing impact on work, care, and wellness. With more than twenty years in senior leadership and a decade focused on media and technology in childcare, eldercare, mental health, and education, Leslie is a sought-after speaker and consultant. She advises organizations such as HubSpot, Merck, Scholastic, and the Barr Foundation on how to retain and support parents, caregivers, and people of color. Our conversation explores the growing crisis of parental stress and maternal mental health, which has been made so much worse by a perfect storm of factors such as the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, rising costs, shortages in healthcare and childcare resources, and the unique challenges faced by parents of neurodivergent children. Leslie shares some insights from her extensive research on the topic, explaining how parents, especially mothers, are struggling to balance the demands of caregiving, household management, and careers, often at the expense of their own well-being. The guilt, shame, and lack of flexibility in the workplace make it especially difficult for many parents to ask for the support that they desperately need. Leslie highlights the critical importance of parents, especially mothers, prioritizing self-care even in small ways to build resilience and model healthy behaviors for their children. She provides practical tips such as identifying a daily "anchor" activity and being mindful of decision fatigue to help parents carve out time for their own mental, physical, and emotional needs. Our conversation also goes into the direct connection between parents' mental health and their children's wellbeing, and how, by supporting parents, we can have a profound impact on the whole family. This conversation offers a powerful and timely exploration of the parental mental health crisis, with practical insights and solutions that can make a real difference for families! Want a deeper dive into today's topic? Join Karen and Leslie for a ChildNEXUS & Mom's Hierarchy of Needs Joint Discussion; register here! Show Notes: [2:41] - Leslie argues that rising costs, long wait times, and poor support leave families emotionally and financially strained. [4:15] - Leslie points out how coordinating specialists, schools, and daily routines creates an overwhelming, often invisible burden. [6:13] - Mothers face worsening burnout as post-pandemic losses strip away time, resources, and support systems. [9:58] - Social conditioning and low workplace safety pressure women into overcommitment despite exhaustion and caregiving needs. [12:55] - Leslie asserts that many workplaces equate commitment with overwork, leaving parents afraid to ask for flexibility and support. [15:03] - Leslie points out how parents often feel isolated and ashamed when children struggle academically or socially. [17:39] - Many mothers feel trapped without partner support or financial means. [20:51] - Leslie asserts that ignoring self-care leads to burnout that harms health, family, and career stability. [23:46] - Exhausted parents struggle to engage with energetic children, straining relationships and shared activities. [25:47] - Leslie argues that parenting requires constant exhausting micro-adjustments, like juggling trains on endlessly shifting tracks. [28:36] - Dr. Wilson recommends Leslie's book for guidance. [29:11] - Leslie advises parents to establish a daily anchor habit and reduce fatigue around making decisions. [32:57] - Dr. Wilson points out that it's important to support parents of neurodivergent children while also encouraging their own self-care practices. [33:28] - Leslie agrees and reports that post-pandemic self-care has declined as responsibilities have increased and systems have become more strained. [36:48] - Leslie praises Karen's guidance for parents while emphasizing time management and self-care as very important. [38:10] - What is the best way to reach Leslie? Links and Related Resources: Episode 151: Parenting with ADHD: Insights and Inspiration with Holly Blanc Moses Episode 167: From Surviving to Thriving: A Mom's Hierarchy of Needs and Well-Being with Leslie Forde Episode 202: How Low Demand Parenting Can Reduce Stress and Support Neurodivergent Youth with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge Leslie Forde - Repair with Self-Care: Your Guide to the Mom's Hierarchy of Needs® Connect with Us: Register for "Thriving Together Supporting Your Child and Yourself" with Leslie Forde an

We are happy to welcome Amanda Morin to the show this week! Amanda is a neurodivergent advocate for neurodiversity, an award-winning author of six books, an early childhood expert, and a nationally recognized speaker who is passionate about building accessible and inclusive spaces for neurodivergent people. Drawing on her background in learning and child development, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), special education, advocacy, and mental health, she translates complex information into clear, practical insights for parents, educators, and employers striving to design inclusive content, programs, and strategies that make the world more accessible for everyone. In our discussion today, Amanda unpacks the concept of "neurodiversity-affirming" schools - classrooms that go beyond just "including" neurodivergent students and instead actively celebrate and empower them. She explains how a neurodiversity-affirming approach involves letting go of rigid structures and control and instead creating flexible, "controlled chaos" environments in which all students can learn and thrive in the ways that work best for them, benefitting not just neurodivergent students but, again, all learners! Amanda also highlights the importance of using especially precise and affirming language, distinguishing between "neurodivergent" (those whose brains process information differently) and the broader "neurodiverse" (the natural diversity of all minds). She also discusses how naming and understanding differences, rather than avoiding them, can go a long way toward destigmatizing neurodivergence. Perhaps especially crucially, Amanda explores the "double empathy problem," the idea that communication challenges often stem from a two-way lack of understanding rather than just deficits in the neurodivergent individual, and she shares some practical strategies for bridging this gap, such as narrating facial expressions and using visual cues. As the new school year approaches, this conversation is sure to offer some invaluable insights for educators seeking to create truly inclusive, strengths-based classrooms that empower all students to do their best! Show Notes: [3:06] - Amanda Morin highlights moving beyond "inclusion" toward belonging, creating flexible, student-centered learning environments. [6:43] - Neurodiversity-affirming practices benefit all students by gradually rethinking classrooms to embrace every mind. [9:37] - Just like biodiversity, neurodiversity means different minds adapt uniquely but remain equally valid. [11:25] - Amanda explains neurodivergence as brain-environment interactions that require supportive accommodations. [13:21] - Stigma is a major barrier to neurodivergent students' mental health and persistence. [14:14] - Naming diagnoses openly helps students replace self-blame with understanding. [17:00] - Hiding diagnoses often leads children to form harmful, inaccurate stories about themselves. [18:24] - Amanda urges giving kids language to explain their struggles instead of adopting negative labels. [20:08] - Amanda touches upon the double empathy problem in which communication requires adjustment between neurodivergent and neuro-normative people. [23:44] - Teachers can model narrating emotions and expressions to reduce students' stress around social cues. [24:06] - Hear how Amanda uses a "battery activity" to help students visualize and communicate their energy levels. [27:12] - Amanda encourages urges describing behavior neutrally rather than judging it as "good" or "bad." [30:13] - Hear how Amanda prefers "neuro-normative" over "neurotypical" because it avoids implying a single correct way of being. [32:37] - Amanda highlights a project reframing IEPs around strengths and motivation, not just deficits and skills gaps. [35:37] - Amanda encourages small classroom changes that affirm neurodivergent students' agency and sense of belonging. [37:52] - Amanda invites educators to connect! Links and Related Resources: Emily Kircher-Morris & Amanda Morin - Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted & Supported Episode 168: 5 Tips for Supporting Neurodivergent Youth The Understood Blog - "Academia to action: Parents of neurodivergent kids need answers" Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our "When Struggles Overlap" Live Webinar Email Dr. Wilson: [email protected] Connect with Amanda Morin: Amanda's Website Email Amanda: [email protected] Phone: 1-207-907-9182

Joining us for this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Barbara Arrowsmith-Young! Barbara is a pioneering author and innovator in neuroeducation, known for applying neuroplasticity to improve cognitive function. Since 1978, her work has helped individuals with learning difficulties, brain injuries, addiction, and age-related decline, and it is now used worldwide. She shares her groundbreaking journey in her bestselling book The Woman Who Changed Her Brain and her TEDx talk, and continues advancing research as Director of the Arrowsmith program. In this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning, Barbara shares her deeply powerful journey of overcoming significant learning difficulties she faced from a young age. Growing up in the 1950s, Barbara was labeled as "slow" and was told by her teachers not to have high expectations for her academic future, but despite the challenges, her mother's determination and Barbara's resilience allowed her to learn how to read, write, and do basic math, although she continued to struggle with comprehension and processing language. As an adult, Barbara had an epiphany after reading the work of neuropsychologist Alexander Luria. She discovered that the root of her learning difficulties was due to specific areas of her brain that were underperforming, so inspired by research on neuroplasticity, she set out to create cognitive exercises that could strengthen those weaker brain regions. She reflects in this episode on how, to her amazement, the exercises led to a huge change in her cognitive abilities, allowing her to fully engage in conversations, understand complex concepts, and more. Barbara discusses how she was determined to share this life-changing approach, founded the Arrowsmith School, and developed the Arrowsmith Program, which has now helped thousands of students around the world. She passionately advocates for integrating neuroscience and cognitive training into education, empowering all learners to enhance their brain's capacity and unlock their full potential. If you enjoy this episode, you will have the wonderful opportunity to learn more about Barbara's work during a live webinar on September 17th, 2025. Don't miss this chance to dive deeper into the power of neuroplasticity and how it can transform the lives of students who struggle with learning differences! Show Notes: [2:36] - Barbara Arrowsmith-Young reflects on having been labeled "slow" in grade one, internalizing shame before learning disabilities were even recognized. [4:38] - Despite intense effort and her mother's support, Barbara masked her difficulties with memorization and compensation. [7:32] - Barbara points out how brain imaging reveals students with learning difficulties overuse their strengths to compensate. [10:48] - Many students experience intense despair from persistent, misunderstood learning challenges. [11:17] - Barbara opens up about having struggled with suicidal ideation in eighth grade. [14:25] - Even though there is longstanding research, many schools still neglect brain-based approaches to learning. [15:13] - Hear how Barbara's father instilled belief in problem-solving and how Alexander Luria's work revealed the source of her struggles. [18:06] - Newly inspired by neuroplasticity research, Barbara designed clock-based brain exercises to help stimulate specific neural regions. [21:06] - Hear how mastering four-handed clocks transformed Barbara's comprehension. [22:53] - Barbara created Arrowsmith School to help integrate brain-based learning into mainstream education. [25:31] - Real change requires targeted brain exercises and not just accommodations. [26:50] - Barbara finds immense joy in witnessing cognitive transformation and improved mental health in her students. [29:05] - Arrowsmith lowers cortisol and anxiety while supporting recovery from learning difficulties. [32:07] - Hear how Barbara developed diverse cognitive programs to enhance brain function. [35:43] - Barbara urges education to embrace neuroplasticity early, believing that cognitive growth leads to empathy and future problem-solvers. Links and Related Resources: Barbara Arrowsmith-Young - The Woman Who Changed Her Brain: And Other Inspiring Stories of Pioneering Brain Transformation Barbara's TEDx Talk Take the Cognitive Questionnaire to Receive a Report on Your Unique Learning Profile Free "Shaping Our Brain" Webinar Series For Those Interested in Research Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia Register for Our "When Struggles Overlap" Live Webinar Email Dr. Wilson: [email protected] Connect with Barbara Arrowsmith-Young: Arrowsmith - Website Barbara's ChildNEXUS Profile

We are very excited to welcome Jodi Gold, MD of The Gold Center to the show this week. Dr. Jodi Gold is a board-certified pediatric and adult psychiatrist with expertise in child and adolescent pharmacology, reproductive psychiatry, psychotherapy for mood and anxiety disorders, and the impact of digital technology. She has earned multiple awards from esteemed organizations, including NIMH and AACAP. From 2006 to 2012, she led the child and adolescent psychiatry outpatient department at Weill Cornell and has since taught and mentored at both Cornell and Columbia. Dr. Gold is also the author of the acclaimed book Screen-Smart Parenting, which offers guidance on balancing children's digital media use. While raising kids in a world full of tech can feel like a constant balancing act (especially when every headline warns of the harmful effects of digital overload), Dr. Gold offers a refreshing perspective on parenting in the digital age. Rather than prescribing rigid rules or causing/worsening parental anxiety, she advocates for a very thoughtful, flexible approach that stems from empathy, honesty, and consistency. Dr. Gold recontextualizes the conversation around screen time, encouraging parents to focus less on hours and more on habits. She stresses that the same principles that guide good parenting offline, such as structure and communication, apply online as well. What is most important, she argues, isn't perfect control but rather presence. Parents don't need to be tech experts to be effective; they just need to stay curious, open, and willing to engage with their kids' digital lives. Hear strategies for building trust and setting healthy boundaries that match each child's developmental stage and personality. Dr. Gold highlights the importance of understanding your own digital behaviors too, since kids are always watching and also often imitating what they see. From gaming and social media to group texts and YouTube spirals, this episode encourages parents to stay connected and involved without becoming overbearing or checked out. Show Notes: [2:25] - Dr. Jodi Gold argues that fear and shame get in the way of effective parenting, but staying engaged online and offline builds trust. [4:06] - Parents need to align tech rules with their own habits and use an authoritative but balanced parenting style. [7:10] - Dr. Gold encourages parents to follow their child's digital interests with curiosity and focus on resilience, not just restriction. [9:12] - Many parents understand school schedules but overlook how their kids use devices day-to-day. [11:18] - Knowing your child's social context can help you determine whether tech isolates or supports them. [14:09] - Dr. Gold points out how parents of younger kids tend to engage more with tech use. [16:16] - Tailoring tech rules to each child's needs is important, especially for children with ADHD and/or anxiety. [18:45] - Dr. Gold observes that kids today are fearless digital natives, so parents must stay present and observant even when not experts. [20:20] - How kids use tech is more important than how long; they need focus rather than just limits [21:58] - It's important to combine empathy with structure and to use tech as a reward. [24:53] - Parents should set honest limits around screen time without guilt, using structure and self-awareness. [26:49] - Dr. Gold believes that occasional screen use is okay; just be honest about your own usage, and stay involved in your child's life. [28:14] - Strong parent-child communication and self-awareness can help kids manage digital life and mental health. [31:21] - Parent the digital world the same way you parent offline - based on your values, not on fear. Links and Related Resources: Episode 142: How to Help Neurodivergent Kids Manage Social Media "Clarifying Gray Areas in Family Tech Use: Separating Red Herrings from Red Flags" "Family Tech Use Part 2: Resolving Common Dilemmas" "Smart Screen Parenting" "How to Be a 'Screen Smart' Parent" Jodi Gold, MD - Screen-Smart Parenting: How to Find Balance and Benefit in Your Child's Use of Social Media, Apps, and Digital Devices Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia Email Dr. Wilson: [email protected] Connect with Jodie Gold, MD: The Gold Center - Website Dr. Gold's Page on The Gold Center Dr. Gold's Instagram Page Email: [email protected] Phone: 212-729-6410

We have not just one but two guests for you this week - Dr. Steve Truch and Devan Kublik! Steve has over 50 years of experience in education, beginning as a junior high school English teacher and then working as a school psychologist, ultimately founding The Reading Foundation clinics across North America to provide one-on-one therapy for students with learning difficulties. He is the primary author of the Discover educational programs used at the clinics and has written several books and articles on reading and cognitive assessment. His work reflects a continued commitment to aligning educational methods with current research, particularly in the science of reading. Devan Kublik holds a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and has been with The Reading Foundation since 1999, currently serving as Director of Standards across all locations. She has held leadership roles in multiple clinics and has contributed to nearly every aspect of the organization, including training, program development, and student assessment. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, reading, and mountain activities. In our conversation, we discuss the issue of reading proficiency among U.S. students, where only 35% of 4th graders are considered proficient readers. We explore how reading instruction methods have changed and evolved over time, from the whole language method to the current emphasis on the science of reading and phonics. Dr. Truch explains how the speech-to-print method, focusing on teaching the phonemic structure of words and their corresponding visual representations, can be a more effective way to help students learn to read. Devan also highlights the importance of "dosage" (the intensity and duration of intervention) in speeding along the process, especially during the summer when students are not constrained by the school schedule. She shares how the Reading Foundation's programs offer individualized and immersive instruction customized to each student's unique needs, often leading to remarkable changes in their confidence and academic performance. Devan and Dr. Truch stress that while reading instruction has been a longstanding challenge for the education system, solutions that are backed by research are available, and that the key is connecting families with the right resources to help their children overcome reading difficulties and unlock their full potential. So, whether your child is a reluctant reader or has faced persistent challenges, this episode offers valuable insights and a glimmer of hope. Show Notes: [2:55] - Dr. Truch argues that teaching methods for reading often ignore science and harm struggling learners. [5:20] - Traditional phonics rules are inconsistent, but speech-to-print offers a more logical alternative. [8:49] - Dr. Truch adds that teaching children sound-to-spelling connections can lead to better results than relying on abstract rules. [12:11] - Summer can accelerate reading gains for struggling students via structured but individualized intervention. [15:46] - Proper intervention speeds along progress, especially when it is intensive, customized, and monitored. [18:04] - Summer also allows for customized literacy support based on a student's specific needs. [19:14] - Dr. Truch points out how effective reading intervention depends on both program dosage and using the correct method. [21:37] - Untreated reading struggles often leave lasting emotional damage, sometimes even resembling symptoms of PTSD. [23:29] - When parents lack the training to lead interventions, both they and the children can get frustrated. [25:45] - Rapid emotional changes happen once children experience early success via reading intervention. [27:24] - Early, focused instruction can boost lifelong success for struggling readers, as is backed by data and expert recognition. [30:01] - Hear how, with the right tools, one shy girl gained confidence and began reading aloud at school. [32:17] - Dr. Truch explains how targeted assessments can help pinpoint delays. Links and Related Resources: Episode 27: Why We Need to Support Parents Whose Kids Struggle with Learning with Maria Fagan Hassani Episode 208: Overcoming Dyslexia and Addressing The Reading Crisis with Sally Shaywitz, MD Episode 215: How to Support Students Who Struggle with Reading Comprehension – with Dr. Emily Levy "Reading with Your Child: Teaching Key Concepts and Building Habits of Mind" Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia Connect with the Guests: The Reading Foundation - Website The Reading Foundation LA's Page on ChildNEXUS Email: [email protected]