Full-Tilt Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent Children

Author, parent coach, and social worker Cathy Adams talks about her new book, Zen Parenting: Caring for Ourselves and Our Children in an Unpredictable World, and the importance of parents doing their own deep inner work. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week I’m talking with Dr. Joy Lawson Davis, an award-winning author, professional learning trainer, independent consultant, and equity activist. Dr. Davis’ areas of expertise and focus are culturally responsive teaching, supporting Black gifted students, equity and access in gifted education programs, and meeting the needs of diverse gifted learners. Dr. Davis is the author of Bright Talented & Black: A Guide for Families of African American Gifted Learners; Gifted Children of Color Around the World: Diverse Needs, Exemplary Practices & Directions for the Future, and her recently released books Empowering Underrepresented Gifted Students: Perspectives from the Field and Culturally Responsive Teaching in Gifted Education. This is a jam-packed conversation with a lot of resources for parents and schools. We talked about special gifts that Black gifted children have that are often missed, the biggest roadblocks in traditional education models for Black gifted students, and how schools can support the Black families in their community and make their programs more inclusive. I asked Joy her perspective on the very timely issue of racial disparities in public gifted school programs, as well her ideas for white families who want to join the fight for equity in gifted programs. Things you’ll learn from this episode Why Dr. Davis does the work she does for underrepresented and Black gifted students What Joy sees as the biggest roadblocks in traditional education models for Black gifted students when it comes to being identified as gifted and getting the support and opportunities they deserve How schools can support Black families in their communities and make their programs more inclusive What public schools can do to support all of their gifted students and address the racial disparities in their programs How test prepping for gifted programs creates an unfair barrier, and other types of screenings that can be used instead How white families can be allies when it comes to ensuring gifted programs are inclusive and representative Resources mentioned for supporting Black gifted students Dr. Joy Lawson Davis’ website Empowering Underrepresented Gifted Students by Joy Lawson Davis Ed.D. and Deb Douglas Culturally Responsive Teaching in Gifted Education edited by C. Matthew Fugate, Ph.D., Wendy Behrens, M.A. Ed., Cecelia Boswell, Ed.D., and Joy Lawson Davis, Ed.D. Bright, Talented, & Black by Joy Lawson Davis, Ed.D. Going Beyond Lip Service When It Comes to Equity Support the showConnect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, parent coach Margaret Webb offers advice for navigating a dynamic where grandparents and other extended family don’t understand our child. We talk about how to handle family who may not be as tolerant or understanding of who our kids are (or our reality in raising them) as we would like. So often big family events like weddings or graduations or holiday celebrations create situations where we’re expected to spend lots of time with family, but it might not look the way we, or they, expect. So what do we do in these scenarios? What are our responsibilities both to our children and to the family members hosting or attending these events? How can we best prep for these tricky situations? That’s what we’re covering in this episode. Margaret has a lot of experience supporting parents through this difficult dynamic, and in this episode she shares her best tips and strategies for taking care of ourselves and our children and making choices around family events that make the most sense for our reality. Margaret Webb is a certified Master Life Coach, parenting coach, nature-based coach, former teacher, wife and mother. As a life and parenting coach, she weaves together her experience as an elementary education teacher with the tools she’s learned in Martha Beck’s Life Coach Training, Sagefire Institute’s Nature-Based Coach Training, and what she’s applied to her own life as a mom of a child with special needs. Things you’ll learn from this episode How “shoulding” from other parents can lead to a judgement shame spiral How to take care of yourself and the emotions that come up in challenging situations How to practice proactive problem solving around family events that are likely to be challenging The importance of being mindful of the time and energy we spend on other people How to play “dysfunctional bingo” Margaret’s best tips for parents navigating tricky dynamics with extended family, and handling grandparents who don’t understand our child Resources mentioned for when grandparents don’t understand our child Finding Peace in Parenting the Child You Didn’t Expect (podcast) How Parents Can Survive (and Thrive) Over the Summer Holidays (podcast) Margaret Webb Life Coach Email Margaret directly Parenting the Child You Didn’t Expect While You Were Expecting Online Course Support the show Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

AuTeach founder Robin Roscigno, an autism researcher, scholar, speaker, and TikTok sensation, talks about the Autism Industrial Complex, the trauma of restraints and seclusion, and respectful approaches to neurodiversity-informed intervention. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Tilt Parenting Podcast, I’m talking about sensory processing disorder in children with the fabulous Carol Kranowitz, the author of many books about SPD, including The Out-of-Sync Child and The Out-of-Sync Child Grows Up. A former preschool teacher, Carol is passionate about informing people about sensory processing disorder in children and helping parents and educators understand how to recognize and support kids with sensory issues. I read Carol’s book The Out-of-Sync Child when Asher was about four years old, and I immediately had that sense of YES . . . this is what’s going on, so it was a thrill and honor to get to chat with Carol about what sensory processing is, how to recognize it in kids, what it looks like at different ages, as well as to hear Carol’s thoughts on efforts to get SPD fully recognized as a disorder. This is a fascinating conversation with one of the world’s top voices on SPD—I hope you enjoy it! Carol Kranowitz was a music, movement, and drama teacher for 25 years, where she observed many out-of-sync preschoolers. To help them become more competent in their work and play, she began to study sensory processing and sensory integration (“SI”) theory. She learned to help identify her young students’ needs and to steer them into early intervention. In her writings and workshops, she explains to parents, educators, and other early childhood professionals how sensory issues play out – and provides enjoyable sensory-motor techniques for addressing them at home and school. She is best-known for her first book in the “Sync” series, The Out-of-Sync Child. Things you’ll learn from this episode What sensory processing disorder in children is The 3 types of sensory processing issues: sensory modulation (most common), discrimination issues, and sensory based motor problems How parents can recognize if their child has sensory processing issues The connection between SPD and other neurodifferences such as autism, ADHD, and OCD What to expect for sensory processing disorder in children at different ages Resources mentioned for sensory processing disorder in children Carol Kranowitz’s website The Out-of-Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun by Carol Kranowitz Uit de Pas by Carol Kranowitz Met Plezier Uit de Pas by Carol Kranowitz Star Institute (www.spdstar.org) Support the show Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Educator and learning advocate Heather Clarke talks about dismantling ableism in schools, advocating for neurodivergent learners in school, and shifting toward Universal Design in mainstream education. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the TiLT Parenting Podcast, I’m bringing to you a conversation with the fantastic Dr. Robyn Silverman, a child and adolescent development specialist who focuses on nurturing kids’ character strengths, and body/self esteem development during childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood. As a strong believer that children are assets to be developed not deficits to be managed, Robyn’s work reflects a positive approach that shows that with the right tools, all young people have the ability to thrive and succeed. Dr. Robyn has so much insight to share and this is definitely one of those rich conversations with many insights and useful nuggets, but the core focus of our conversation is character development, character strengths, and self-growth and how we as parents can best nurture the values and character traits in our differently-wired children that are so important to us. Dr. Robyn Silverman has spent more than 15 years researching, writing and working in the areas of leadership development, character education, body image, developmental psychology, social-emotional learning and most recently, grit, “strength-finding” and success. She recently launched a podcast, How to Talk to Kids About Anything, and is a frequently featured expert in the national media, including The Today Show and Good Morning America. Things you’ll learn from this episode How to see kids as assets to be developed, not deficits to be managed Ways to help your child tap into his or her strengths What character is and why we need to help kids develop it The value in answering the questions: What would I want people to say about my kid? When I’m not there, what would I hope my child would do or say? What would my child say is really important to me? How to avoid the pit of getting sucked into the “Fictitious Facebook Family” comparison What to do when your child isn’t embodying the values and character traits you hold dear How children benefit when we look at them through their strengths Resources mentioned for nurturing our kids’ character Dr. Robyn Silverman’s website How to Talk to Kids About Anything (Dr. Robyn’s podcast) Jess Weiner’s website A Deep Dive into Assessments, Diagnoses, and Labels with Dr. Melissa Neff (podcast) Far From the Tree by Andrew Solomon Andrew Solomon’s TED Talk, Love No Matter What Learning to Lie (article in New York Magazine) Dina Alexander—Educate and Empower Kids Support the show Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today I’m bringing you my conversation with Dr. Ned Hallowell, who has spent the past four decades helping thousands of adults and children live happy and productive lives through his strength-based approach to neurodiversity, and has ADHD and dyslexia himself. During our time together, we talked about Ned’s strength-based approach to ADHD and how it can change the outlook for someone with ADHD, his thoughts about ADHD medication, what finding the “right difficult” means and how parents can help their kids find theirs, and how to create safe and stellar environments for our children to thrive as themselves. Edward (Ned) Hallowell, M.D. is a board-certified child and adult psychiatrist and world authority on ADHD. He is a graduate of Harvard College and Tulane Medical School, and was a Harvard Medical School faculty member for 21 years. He is the Founder of The Hallowell ADHD Centers in Boston MetroWest, New York City, San Francisco, Palo Alto and Seattle. Dr Hallowell is a New York Times bestselling author and has written 20 books on multiple psychological topics. As the host of the twice-weekly Distraction podcast, Dr. Hallowell explores with guests how to better connect with others and how each of us can implement strategies that can turn modern problems into new-found strengths. Things you’ll learn from this episode What inspired Ned Hallowell to write his new book ADHD 2.0 How having a strengths-based approach to ADHD can change the outlook for someone with this diagnosis What VAST is and how it relates to ADHD Ned’s take on and approach to ADHD medication What the vestibulocerebellar system is and how exercises and other strategies targeting it support kids with ADHD What finding the “right difficult” means and ideas for parents to help their kids find theirs How we can create environments that truly support our kids in being the best version of themselves Resources mentioned for Ned Hallowell’s ideas on supporting children with ADHD Dr. Edward (Ned) Hallowell’s website Dr. Hallowell: Wonderful World of Different podcast ADHD 2.0: New Science and Essential Strategies for Thriving with Distraction – from Childhood Through Adulthood by Edward M. Hallowell, John J. Ratey, et al. Driven to Distraction (Revised): Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder by Edward M. Hallowell M.D. and John J. Ratey M.D. Support the showConnect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is all about getting organized—specifically organizing our spaces, and our lives, not to mention all the paperwork / material that we parents of differently wired kids have to track and keep records of. To talk about all this, my guest is a dear friend who also happens to be an organizational guru…Lisa Viscardi, owner of Clarity by Lisa Viscardi. Lisa is known for helping her clients create systems that truly transform their lives. In our conversation, LIsa talks about how getting organized and creating more clarity in our homes directly corresponds to the way we feel and experience our day-to-day lives. If you are a fan of Marie Kondo’s book The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up, you will love this episode because it takes things to a whole new, deeper level. It’s about less overwhelm, less stress, and more clarity and peace, with a special focus on the unique circumstances for parents with atypical kids. I hope you enjoy it! Lisa Viscardi is a professional organizer, but the work she does goes so much deeper. People invite her into their homes to help them organize their offices, kitchens and kids’ rooms, but what they don’t realize is that their physical clutter is a reflection of their internal clutter. Lisa’s business is called Clarity because that’s what she brings to people’s lives. Lisa helps people create order out of chaos by designing aesthetic, simple systems that are easy to use and maintain, and encourages people to free themselves from things they’ve held on to for the wrong reasons, or that they no longer need. Things you’ll learn from this episode Why you need to have a “Command Central” in your home How to deal with a backlog of disorganization How having more clarity in your home and life helps you be responsive rather than reactive How to implement Lisa’s C.L.E.A.R. system (Categorize, Learn, Edit, Arrange, Revisit) How to move forward by making intentional choices Resources mentioned for organizing & getting clarity at home Chill: Stress-Reducing Techniques for a More Balanced, Peaceful You by Debbie Reber Support the show Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emily Kircher-Morris, a licensed professional counselor, specialist in helping gifted and twice-exceptional kids, and host of The Neurodiversity Podcast, talks about destigmatizing neurodiversity and how to support twice exceptional children. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is the first of a new regular feature of the TiLT Parenting Podcast—a special kid’s POV edition. Every few weeks, I’ll be sharing a conversation with my 11-year-old child Asher, in which we discuss an issue that’s particularly relevant to families with differently-wired kids. Asher hopes that by sharing his perspective on the kinds of things we as parents can struggle to navigate, moms and dads everywhere will better understand what’s happening with their child, as well as gain new inspiration for moving through tough situations in a way that best serves everyone involved. In this episode, we tackle what ADHD feels like, and specifically the issue of DISTRACTION, something that has been a significant challenge for us as a family, and more recently, has become frustrating for Asher himself. In our short conversation, Asher shares what the experience of getting distracted actually feels like for him, as well as how frustrating getting distracted can actually be. We also discuss some of the strategies we’re using to help Asher stay on-task as we work to develop his focusing muscles. Debbie Reber is the founder of TiLT and the host of the Tilt Parenting Podcast. 11-year-old Asher is Debbie’s son and is regularly featured on the podcast. Things you’ll learn from this episode Asher’s thoughts on what ADHD actually feels like, including what it’s like to always be distracted Why it’s frustrating for the kids themselves to get distracted What might motivate a child to work on staying focused The strategy we’re using to help Asher stay focused and on-task while using his screen time Resources mentioned for Asher’s perspective on what ADHD feels like Download a PDF of Asher’s Original Personal Goal Planner Download a PDF of Asher’s Screen Time Planning Worksheet Support the show Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New York Times' bestselling author Katherine May (Wintering) talks about her new book, The Electricity of Every Living Thing, about her journey of discovering her identity as an autistic woman. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode I sit down with my dear friend and super talented life coach Kanesha Baynard to talk about the relationship we have with our parents and in-laws while also navigating our own journey as parents. Kanesha is an expert in multi-generational family dynamics and in this episode, we cover a lot of ground — the common challenges, tackling uncomfortable conversations, designing an alliance with our parents and in-laws, and much more. If you’ve ever had a communications fail or conflict or disagreement with your own parent or parent-in-law over some aspect of raising your own child, Kanesha’s perspective and practical strategies will undoubtedly inspire you to foster a dynamic that will best serve the whole family and meet everyone’s needs in a respectful way moving forward. Kanesha Baynard is a workshop facilitator, creativity coach, and inner wellness author who has been featured on the Dr. Oz Show. Her work has also been featured in many local and national publications. Kanesha is the author of The Self-love Playbook for #boldthinkers, 52 Powerful Questions: A Journal and Planning Guide for Creative Entrepreneurs, and Focus on What Matters: A Guided Journal. She is the founder of the Bold Living Today community focused on helping members disrupt unfulfilling patterns through creativity and navigate transition with confidence and boldness. Kanesha has created several card decks designed to help busy professionals, caregivers, and teens reconnect with activities and behaviors that foster imagination, joy, creativity, and space to refuel. Kanesha works with non-profit organizations, wellness groups, caregiving resource providers, women business owners, leadership teams, youth organizations, and individual clients to improve productivity habits, manage mental wellness through creativity, expand outreach opportunities through focused brainstorming sessions, and provide life skill mapping. Things you’ll learn from this episode How to recognize and understand generational differences between our parents parenting style and our own Strategies for handling difficult conversations with our parents How to handle it when we feel judged by our parents or in-laws How to take care of our needs and our kids needs during difficult moments How to ask for what you need from your parents and in-laws in a respectful way Resources mentioned for navigating tricky family dynamics Kanesha Baynard’s website Bold Living Today PAL Protocol: Managing Challenging Conversations in Multigenerational Settings The Self-Love Playbook for #BOLDTHINKERS by Kanesha Baynard 52 Powerful Questions: A Journal and Planning Guide for Creative Entrepreneurs by Kanesha Baynard Focus on What Matters: A Guided Journalby Kanesha Baynard Support the show Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Behavioral optometrist and children’s vision expert Dr. Juanita Collier talks about vision-related learning difficulties, and racial disparities in school vision care and its academic impact on children of color. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Clinical psychologist and researcher on giftedness Dr. Matt Zakreski talks about suicide, suicidal ideation, and suicide prevention, with special consideration to unique needs of neurodivergent children and teens and the Covid 19 pandemic. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wonder about the education value of the shows your kids watch? Curious to know if children can grow their SEL skills through preschool TV? On this episode, I’m talking with preschool television show creator, executive producer, writer, and show runner, Angela Santomero about just that. I first met Angela while working on Blue’s Clues, a show that she, incidentally, co-created, and we’ve been friends ever since. I wanted to bring Angela on the podcast because not only do we share a lot of core beliefs when it comes to parenting, but the shows she’s creating are having a powerful impact on young children who are wired differently. In this episode, Angela and I talk about why children’s TV can be so powerful as a tool for education, the merits of screen time for young kids, the research foundation behind all of Angela’s shows that ensure the lessons and messages are landing with kids the way they’re intended to, and why some children’s TV shows can be a great way to present social and emotional learning opportunities for differently-wired kids. Angela Santomero is the cocreator, executive producer, and head writer for the award-winning Blue’s Clues and the creator and executive producer for the smash hit Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood and Super Why!, airing on PBS; Creative Galaxy and Wishenproof for Amazon Studios; and Charlie’s Colorforms City on Netflix. Things you’ll learn from this episode: What the research says about the merits of educational television programming and media for kids Why some social / emotional strategies on preschool programs are especially sticky for differently-wired kids How some shows are trying to incorporate social stories that can support differently-wired kids’ social thinking about things like friendship challenges, anxiety, and aggression Resources mentioned for SEL and Preschool TV Angela Santomero’s website Angela’s Clues Preschool TV Creator Angela Santomero on Her New Book Preschool Clues (podcast episode) Preschool Clues: Raising Smart, Inspired, and Engaged Kids in a Screen-Filled World by Angela Santomero and Deborah Reber Radical Kindness: The Life Changing Power of Giving and Receiving by Angela Santomero Blue’s Clues (Nick Jr.) Super Why (PBS Kids) Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood (PBS Kids) Support the show Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Academic coach and author of The Disintegrating Student, Jeannine Jannot, Ph.D., shares insights on why previously high performing students might fall apart and offers strategies for building skills and resilience. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today is another special solocast episode I’ll be doing focusing on homeschooling. The first episode focused on how we came to the decision to homeschool, because I was very much a reluctant homeschooler. For today’s episode, I’m focusing on the actual transition to homeschool and that very first year—essentially, how I got through it. Because it was not an easy transition, and there were many times when I wanted to throw in the towel. I’ll talk with you about what the biggest challenges were for me and Asher and share with you the strategies I used to push through the really hard stuff and get us to a much better place by the end of that first year. Debbie Reber, MA, is a parenting activist, New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and speaker who moved her career in a more personal direction in 2016 when she founded TiLT Parenting, a top resource for parents like her who are raising differently wired children. The TiLT Parenting Podcast has grown to be a top podcast in Kids & Family, with more than6 million downloads and a slate of guests that includes high-profile thought leaders across the parenting and education space. Things you’ll learn from this episode: How Debbie relied tapped into parenting and curricular support The importance of a “detox” period for a child to successfully transition to homeschool The power of field trips and community How shifting expectations, letting go, and leaning in changed everything Resources mentioned about the transition to homeschool An Intimate Conversation with Debbie About Making the Choice to Homeschool Asher (Part 1 in this podcast series) When School Isn’t a Fit: What To Expect and How to Handle It (podcast conversation with Alison Bower) Margaret Webb Life Coaching (parent coach) Finding Peace in Parenting the Child You Didn’t Expect When You Were Expecting (podcast conversation with Margaret Webb) How Parents Can Survive and Thrive Over the Summer Break (podcast conversation with Margaret Webb) What to Do When Close or Extended Family Just Doesn’t Get It (podcast conversation with Margaret Webb) Support the show Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Clinical child and family psychologist Dr. Laura Anderson returns to the podcast for a deep nuanced conversation about raising neurodivergent children who are trans, nonbinary, or otherwise gender noncomforming. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is the first of several solocasts I’ll be doing focusing on homeschooling—not so much the nuts and bolts of it, although I will eventually share some strategies—but more the emotional side of what it was like to make the decision to homeschool. Because, as I’ve said in previous episodes, I was very much a ‘reluctant homeschooler.’ In this episode, I’m going to tell you exactly why that was, why I was so convinced that there was no way I could possibly homeschool Asher, and tell you how I got to a place where my thinking shifted and I was open to giving it a go. Debbie Reber, MA, is a parenting activist, New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and speaker who moved her career in a more personal direction in 2016 when she founded TiLT Parenting, a top resource for parents like her who are raising differently wired children. The TiLT Parenting Podcast has grown to be a top podcast in Kids & Family, with more than 6 million downloads and a slate of guests that includes high-profile thought leaders across the parenting and education space. Things you’ll learn from this episode: Why Debbie was so against homeschooling in the first place What finally convinced her to give it a try What Debbie learned through the process of being a reluctant homeschooling mama Resources mentioned for answering the question “Should I homeschool?” Alison Bower on When School Isn’t a Fit: What to Expect and How to Handle It (podcast) Support the show Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Global advocate, educator, disabled person of color, non-binary woman, and parent of children on the autism spectrum Morénike Giwa Onaiwu talks about the intersectionality of gender, race, and neurodivergence, her own autism diagnosis as an adult, and more. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is a conversation about children and flexible thinking with educator, co-founder of the Learn Inc school, and founder of Alive at Learn, Zach Morris. I had Zach on the show almost a year ago for a fascinating conversation on whole-person learning and the power of using a nonviolent communication model in schools. Today we’re going to go deep into the idea of how we as parents, caregivers, and educators can facilitate what Zach calls “world-view transformation” or flexible thinking in children. In other words, how can we help our differently wired kids change their thinking and perspective in a way that not only preserves our relationship with them, but results in the best possible outcome for our kids? Zach is a thought-leader in education. He is committed to the cultivation of person-centered learning communities built on compassion and whole-person growth. Zach supports individuals, families, and organizations in creating supportive structures for people working to make a change in themselves and in their relationships. Things you’ll learn from this episode: What world-view transformation is and why it’s something we’re working on facilitating with our kids, whether we realize it or not What we as parents and educators are getting wrong as we work to help our kids shift their thinking The importance of tapping into our child’s (and our) “window of tolerance” The difference between compliance and consent when it comes to getting our kids to “buy in” The role of “fixed versus growth mindset” in world view Why our relationship with our child is the most important thing The importance of modeling and patience, a.k.a. this is a process How we can best facilitate world-view transformation through honesty and openness Resources mentioned for supporting children in flexible thinking: Alive at Learn (Zach’s website) The Center for Nonviolent Communication (Marshall Rosenberg’s Global Organization) Institute of Noetic Sciences Carl Rogers (on Positive Psychology Program) Zach Morris on Emotionally Support Children Through Difficult Periods (podcast episode) Non-Violent Communication, Whole-Person Learning, and Neurodiverse Students (podcast episode) Support the show Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Phyllis Fagell, a K-8 school counselor in Washington, DC, a psychotherapist, and the author of Middle School Matters, shares her insights and strategies for supporting students as they navigate this Fall's return to school in unusual times. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Performance poet and advocate LeDerick Horne talks about his journey with a hidden disability, his advocacy work, and how he found his love for poetry. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Clinical psychologist Dr Eli Lebowitz talks about his new book "Breaking Free of Childhood Anxiety and OCD: A Scientifically Proven Program for Parents." Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Frequent guest of the show and executive function coach Seth Perler talks with Debbie about what parents (and educators) should prioritize as students return to school, executive functioning considerations, and more. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Psychologist turned family coach Dr. Lynyetta Willis talks about navigating the complex feelings that parents might experience in the wake of their child's diagnosis. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Clinical psychologist / child development expert Madeline Levine, PhD, on her new book, "Ready or Not Preparing Our Kids to Thrive in an Uncertain and Rapidly Changing World," pandemic parenting, and how to support our kids' resilience moving forward. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Neuropsychologist William Stixrud PhD and Ned Johnson talk about their new book, "What Do You Say? How to Talk with Kids to Build Motivation, Stress Tolerance, and a Happy Home." Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Jenn Noble, a licensed psychologist, teen parent coach, and associate professor of psychology, talks about identity, intersectionality, supporting mixed race kids, and teen mental health. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cathy and Todd Adams, the husband and wife team behind Zen Parenting Radio, talk about showing up in partnership for our children, the gifts of growth and vulnerability, and how to foster deeper alignment with our parenting partners, even in the face of challenges. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Educator, social worker, and mother of two differently wired children Stephanie Malia Krauss talks about her new book, "Making It: What Today’s Kids Need for Tomorrow’s World," and how parents can prepare children for an uncharted future. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Parent educator and author Julie King, talks about her new book, How to Talk When Kids Won't Listen (co-authored with Joanna Faber), and answers questions from the Tilt Parenting community. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Therapist Kate McNulty talks about her book Practical Strategies To Help Couples Understand Each Other and Strengthen Their Connection, mixed neuro-type co-parents, and embracing her own autistic identity as an adult. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Social justice advocate, blogger, and podcaster Amber Coleman-Mortley (Mom of All Capes) talks about her work elevating diverse voices and perspectives in the civic education space, working with students and educators for more equitable outcomes, and how parents can raise civically-minded kids. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week I’m bringing back to the podcast neuroscientist, author, and speaker Dr Nicole Tetreault. As you’ll hear in our conversation, Nicole was propelled to study neuroscience after her mother’s diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease. She then went on her own journey of self-discovery while supporting her twice-exceptional son, and recognizing many traits in herself. All this culminated in her new book Insight Into a Bright Mind: A Neuroscientist’s Personal Stories of Unique Thinking, which melds groundbreaking research with the captured experiences of unique, creative, and intense brains. I’m excited to bring this conversation to you and give you an inside look at this book, as it’s truly a unique and important addition to what currently exists to help parents better understand their exceptional kids’ needs, and perhaps to better understand themselves as well. Nicole brings an incredible breadth of knowledge, and personal experience to the neurodiversity movement, as well as a deep passion for science communication. I hope you enjoy our conversation! Nicole Tetreault, Ph. D., is a neuroscientist, author, meditation teacher, and international speaker on topics of neurodiversity, neurodevelopment, creativity, mental health, and wellness. Dr. Tetreault received her PhD from Caltech specializing in neurodevelopment and neurodegenerative disorders. As the founder of Awesome Neuroscience, she translates the most promising neuroscience and positive psychology for people to live their best life. THINGS YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: What led Nicole to investigate neurodiversity and become a science communicator The important points about brain wiring that are important to understand about educating neurodiverse individuals What is meant by asynchrony and how it relates to processing and behaviors What we can learn from the current moment coming out of the Covid-19 pandemic when it comes to educating neurodiverse students Nicole’s encouragement for parents who self-identify as neurodivers as part of learning about their own child RESOURCES MENTIONED: Nicole Tetreault’s website Insight Into a Bright Mind: A Neuroscientist’s Personal Stories of Unique Thinking by Nicole Tetreault Trauma & Social Isolation in the Time of COVID-19 (Tilt Podcast episode) Support the showConnect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I’m so excited to bring you this powerful and gut-punching conversation with Jonathan Mooney, a self-described “do-gooder,” speaker, and writer who didn’t learn to read until he was 12-years-old. Growing up with Dyslexia, Jonathan faced a number of low expectations: he was told he would be a high-school dropout and likely end up in jail. Instead, he earned a degree in English Literature, started his first non-profit organization in his college dorm, and has gone on to write a number of books, including his latest title Normal Sucks (which, side note: should be required reading for everyone). He’s been a champion for neurological and physical diversity for more than two decades, and his award-winning advocacy projects have been featured in major media outlets across the US. We cover so much ground in our conversation—all about the implications and prescriptions of “normal”—from the painful messages Jonathan received in his early life, to some of the disturbing research he came across while writing his book. But we also talk about the kind of powerful things that can happen for our kids when we set aside typical conventions, timelines, and expectations, and celebrate their differences. It’s not about just flourishing outside the box, it’s about shattering the box completely. THINGS YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: The powerful messages, both positive and negative, Jonathan heard from the adults in his life as a child with dyslexia What is means to pathologize difference, and how even well-meaning organizations participate in this The difficult and disturbing historical outcomes for differently-abled people, including the ideas and legacy of the Eugenics movement. How the idea of “normal” has evolved since Jonathan started his advocacy work Why Jonathan believes that learning differences are a gift and why this is such an important concept What parents and teachers can do to help children to see their differences as strengths RESOURCES MENTIONED: Jonathan Mooney’s website Jonathan Mooney’s email: [email protected] Normal Sucks: How to Live, Learn and Thrive Outside the Lines by Jonathan Mooney The Short Bus: A Journal Beyond Normal by Jonathan Mooney Learning Outside the Lines: Two Ivy League Students With Learning Disabilities and ADHD Give You The Tools For Academic Success and Educational Revolution by Jonathan Mooney and David Cole Support the showConnect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Janet Allison, founder of Boys Alive!, speaker, author, educator, and family coach, talks about how parents and caregivers can support the emotional lives of boys. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Multiracial (Chinese/Irish) autistic neurodiversity rights advocate Ashia Ray talks about her Raising Luminaries movement and Books For Littles — a resource for finding children’s picture books to discuss hard topics. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special bonus episode, executive function coach Seth Perler shares his 5 ideas about what needs to happen next as we work to shift the parenting paradigm for those of us raising differently wired kids. Support the showConnect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Debbie Reber Hosts a Special Episode Celebrating 5 Years of Tilt Parenting Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Teacher, author, speaker, and mom Jessica Lahey (The Gift of Failure) shares her newest book about kids, drugs, and alcohol, The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Author, speaker, and activist Julie Lythcott-Haims (How to Raise an Adult) takes us inside her powerful, inclusive new book, Your Turn: How to Be an Adult. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Jody Carrington, a clinical psychologist who has spent most of her career working with children and families who have experienced trauma, talks about her work supporting educators, parents, and caregivers in showing up for and supporting all children. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Veteran prosecutor, father to three sons, and former troubled teen Jonathan Cristall talks about his new book What They Don't Teach Teens: Life Safety Skills for Teens and the Adults Who Care for Them. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Marsha Brown, a licensed psychologist with specializations in forensic and clinical psychology, talks about mental health, stress management in families and among caregivers and emergency response workers, and law enforcement education surrounding neurodivergence. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Educational psychologist, best-selling author, and TODAY show contributor Dr. Michele Borba talks about her brand new book "Thrivers" about what it takes to raise resilient kids in an anxious world (and in a pandemic). Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tilt Parenting founder and host Debbie Reber answers listeners questions about remote learning, emotional regulation, finding peace in the chaos, and more. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a Clinical Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School, talks about the prevalence of neurodivergent boys with eating disorders and body image challenges. For more info, visit: https://tiltparenting.com/session242 Support the showConnect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mercedes Samudio, LCSW, parent coach, speaker, author, and founder of the Diversity in Parenting Conference, shares insights and strategies surrounding "shame-proofing" our parenting. Connect with Tilt Parenting Visit Tilt Parenting Take the free 7-Day Challenge Read a chapter of Differently Wired Follow Tilt on Twitter & Instagram Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices