Non Linear Learning - Rethinking Education for Neurodivergent Learners

If you have struggled with making a neurotypical math curriculum work for your child with disabilities, whether Down Syndrome or Autism or other disabilities that impact their sensory-motor profile, If you have a child who communicates via AAC, or is an unreliable speaker, or a Speller - perhaps they use RPM or S2C, you may find that either "regular" Math is not available to your child, or not accessible. In this episode, Lisa Mihalich Quinn and I have a hard but necessary conversation on the gaps in special ed, and what needs to happen to make academics accessible for ALL STUDENTS! Lisa has been doing this for years, and is one of the leaders in accessible academics for students with disabilities. She is also a huge advocate for non-speakers who spell / type to communicate. Key Topics Discussed: - Presuming competence in non-speaking and minimally speaking autistic students - The role of assistive technology in promoting communication and learning - Creating inclusive classrooms through collaboration between parents, educators, and students - Communication for Education training and its impact on global educators Connect with Lisa: You can learn more about Lisa Mihalich Quinn's work and the Communication for Education program at https://reacheveryvoice.com You can find Lisa's Accessible Academics program HERE.

In the 50th episode of Functional Nutrition and Learning for Kids, one of my favorite thought leaders, Soma Mukhopadhyay, talks to us about: -how learning channels determine teaching -the 4 goals of RPM - not just information download - but cognition, sensory, tolerance and communication goals. -the importance of a sensory map when working with a child (as opposed to a label) If you are interested in helping your child jump start their learning and sensory goals, I highly recommend checking out RPM. Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) (now being reframed as Pervasive Demand for Autonomy) is a profile on the Autism Spectrum characterized by a heightened sensitivity of the nervous system that becomes activated when a person experiences a loss of autonomy or equality. Did you know that 70% of learners with PDA are not able to participate in traditional school settings? In this episode, we dive into with early childhood mental health consultant and therapist Jessica Hanzo. Jessica sheds light on how PDA differs from typical demand avoidance due to its pervasive impact on the nervous system, making it challenging for individuals to access even their basic needs. Our conversation explores: - Why a child's demand avoidance is NOT a parental failure. - The external manifestations of PDA and how they can be misinterpreted. - How to support parents, educators, and caregivers when supporting children with PDA. - Low Demand Parenting, and how it can help your child Jessica emphasizes the importance of reframing PDA behaviors as a response to feeling unsafe and highlights the value of understanding the nervous system, cultivating curiosity, and embracing creativity when working with these children. You can connect with Jessica Hanzo on Instagram @pda.project or find her at https://pdaproject.com/ and explore more of her insights on supporting neurodivergent children through a neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed approach. Links mentioned in the podcast: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/ https://pdaproject.com/

In this episode of "Non-Linear Learning," Dr. Vaish Sarathy answers a mother's question about supporting her 10-year-old autistic son with ADHD, who struggles with anger and behaviors at school. Dr. Vaish dives deep into the roots of dysregulation, discussing how stress—sensory, biochemical, and communication-related—can drive behaviors often mistaken for misbehavior. Learn about the vital role of understanding and addressing your child's stressors before turning to nutritional and supplemental interventions. This episode offers a compassionate, science-backed approach to helping your child thrive. Takeaways: Behavior is the body's response to stress, not intentional misbehavior. Understanding the root cause of a child's behavior is crucial for effective support. Addressing sensory overload, gut health, and communication needs can help reduce stress and improve behavior. The role of nutritional supplements in addressing behavior

"Yoga isn't just about stretching; it's about finding balance in every aspect of life." In this heartfelt episode, Fiji McAlpine, a dedicated yoga teacher and mother to an autistic child, shares her transformative journey with yoga and its profound impact on parenting. Fiji opens up about how yoga has been a guiding light, helping her navigate the ups and downs of parenting with patience, openness, and acceptance. Discover how yoga's calming techniques and the practice of co-regulation have helped Fiji create a grounding presence for both herself and her child. Through mindfulness and a regular yoga routine, she's found ways to manage stress, reclaim her time, and foster a positive environment for her family. Tune in to learn: - The role of yoga in enhancing patience and acceptance in parenting - How co-regulation and mindfulness can transform the parenting experience - Practical tips for integrating yoga into your daily routine to support your family Connect with Fiji at www.fijimcalpine.com Fiji has also created a code for listeners that gives them full access to thousands of classes, meditations, programs etc. You can access her programs here.

How does intelligence work again? We don't know. But we do know the ONE technique, the ONE process that can help your child (and you) develop nuanced thinking skills, critical thought, an engaged mind, and an active brain - things we regard as intelligence. It is widely known in all circles, with all cognitive experts, AND even with employers to help build engagement in their companies, but the people that should be using these - TEACHERS, and PARENTS don't often use this. In this episode, Dr. Vaish Sarathy tells you exactly what to do to build your student's complex thinking skills. If you want to explore how lesson plans may look for you with this idea, please DM Vaish at www.instagram.com/drvaishsarathy You can also access her free ebook on Learning Strategies that Actually Work here.

If your child struggles with anxiety, aggression, seizure or even sleep issues, how many times have you had someone advice you - "Have you tried CBD"? Every time I hear this, I wonder how CBD can be the answer to EVERY problem? It turns out, it is quite possible. Dr. Julie Buckley makes her second appearance on Episode 93 of Functional Nutrition and Learning for Kids in this fantastic deep dive into CBD and how to get started for your child! I learned 3 important things: Pure CBD (without terpenes, without THC) is not a sedative or psychoactive It is all about the dose Water soluble CBD is the way to go. You can reach Dr. Buckley at www.HealthyUstore.org If you loved this episode, please share your rating at www.ratethispodcast.com/vaish Disclaimer: This is not medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. Please consult your doctor before making supplement changes for your child.

We explore essential planning for parents of children with disabilities with CPA and estate attorney James Lange! Note and disclaimer - this episode deviates from our previous episodes in that it is about financial planning and how to provide for our kids after us. Please use your usual due diligence and research before implementing these strategies. Also please note that this episode is very US-centric. James shares his personal experience and provides valuable insights, emphasizing three critical steps: getting the child approved for SSI or SSDI, creating a special needs trust for estate planning, and optimizing taxes through Roth IRA conversions. James offers a free book, 'Retire Secure for Parents of a Child with a Disability,' and a virtual summit for further resources and support. Connect with James Lange at www.paytaxeslater.com and explore his book, "Retire Secure for Parents of a Child with a Disability," for more detailed guidance.

Today's episode is one of a kind - an expert leads us into incredible detail into the physical and physiological principles behind picky eating and other feeding disorders, specially in children and adults with Down syndrome. If that sounds complex, I assure you that while it is complex, it is not complicated. Dr. Kay Toomey, in this episode talks to us about postural stability and breathing and how they relate to Feeding Delays. I love it when an expert takes us back to the basics. We are often so busy looking for hacks to a particular issue that we lose track of the fundamentals. This episode is just that - a journey back to the very basics, so we can pick up what we missed and address the root cause of picky eating. You can find Dr. Toomey at www.sosapproachtofeeding.com Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

We explore the vagus nerve, your body's communication superhighway some more this week, with Dr. Navaz Habib! Upgrading the vagus nerve is key to anti-inflammatory activity, to supporting nervous system function and mood regulation. If you are looking to reduce your child's anxiety, to help them switch easily from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest, here are a few ways Dr. Navaz suggests: Supporting Nutrition and Gut Health [download your gut health kit here] Finding your breath: Diaphragmatic breathing through your nose [Use this link to explore your breath with Dr. Vaish - she is a volunteer teacher in this breathing workshop] You can connect with Dr. Navaz Habib at drnavazhabib.com or www.healthupgraded.com He is the host of "The Health Upgrade Podcast" and the author of the book "Upgrade Your Vagus Nerve."

Did you know that there are almost 120,000 published papers studying Magnesium in Pubmed, and 150 of them just study Magnesium supporting hyperactivity. Over 300 study the effects of Magnesium and sleep and over 2000 publications study Magnesium and depression and it goes on. In fact last I looked, you could type in Magnesium and ANYTHING and you'd find a study for it. But should you do Magnesium Glycinate or Magnesium Sulfate or Magnesium Citrate? Today's guest Laura Collinwood, Registered Nurse and Holistic Health Coach, talks to us about the importance and all-pervasiveness of Magnesium – the different types and when and why they are important. Magnesium can be a phenomenal support for Autistic people in that it supports anxiety, hyperactivity, constipation and sleep – symptoms that often co-exist. To know exactly what forms to use and where (a sort of bullet-point summary of this podcast) get your Magnesium Toolkit here: https://www.drvaishsarathy.com/Magnesium You can also reach Laura and her fantastic Magnesium Products at https://www.health-and-wisdom.com/ This is a repost of a previous episode, previously published on Jan 16, 2023 Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

In this episode, Dr. Sarathy interviews Sofi Ghassaei, a remarkable and accomplished 20-year-old Autistic Poet and Playwright. Sofi has made significant strides in the world of literature and theater despite the slower process of spelling her thoughts to communicate. Her work has been featured in various publications such as the 2023 poetry anthology "Di lo que quieres decir," Teen Creative magazine, and Neuroclastic. Sofi takes us through her journey of being the first non-speaking Autistic Playwright (that I know of). The most remarkable part of Sofi's journey in my eyes is how she took a "dare from her anxiety monster" to do this most daunting of work. Enjoy! You can find Sofi's Play [it is her First Year Play- Anniversary!!] at this link: https://www.youtube.com/live/bkZB8xwm4dU?si=WMV7g2uWiYNuAHf3

SKY BREATH LINK In this episode, Vaish answers a question from a mom of a 6-year-old Autistic boy with ADHD who is experiencing some parenting struggles. We discuss why parenting parenting a child with a disability becomes challenging - and discuss 7 ways to move from swimming upstream to downstream. Send Vaish questions to be answered in future podcasts here. To get a jump start on your child's regulation (from a gut health perspective), check out my Gut Health Toolkit. 03:02 Swimming Against the Current 04:26 The 7 point checklist 07:15 Understanding the Reasons Behind Behavior 08:10 Effective Communication with the Child 10:30 Prioritizing Self-Care for Parents

"There is no level of inflammation, physical or mental or central nervous system inflammation, that is not damaging." Vaish and JP Errico discuss the role of the vagus nerve in reducing inflammation (esp. neuroinflammation), cognition and supporting brain health in Episode 142. Obviously stress and inflammation are critical in cognitive and overall health, but what is largely unknown is the role of the vagus nerve in modulating inflammation! Vagus Nerve Stimulation can be achieved through various methods, including non-invasive devices like TruVaga (which JP helped found). JP shares a personal experience of using vagus nerve stimulation to alleviate eczema and migraines in his child, leading to significant cognitive improvements. JP Errico's Book: The Vagus-Immune Connection TruVaga - the stimulator mentioned by JP

The 2nd most common question I get asked is this: What is an Anti-Inflammatory Diet, and how do you feed your son? So I thought I would lead you on a day's plan of a vegetarian anti-inflammatory meals. We will talk about breakfast, a pre-breakfast (!!), lunch and dinner! And blood sugar balancing, nutrient density, gut health and more!

"If your child is having difficulty moving their body, they ARE going to have difficulty in moving their eyes." Dr. Susan Daniel, neuro-developmental optometrist talk about vision and its role in learning and regulation for Autistic students and learners with Down Syndrome Vision difficulties can impact a child's regulation and behavior, leading to frustration and anxiety. Dr. Daniel explains the various components of vision, including visual gathering skills, eye teaming, and visual processing. Tune in to learn: Why specialized vision exams are crucial for children with autism, Down syndrome, and other disabilities How vision difficulties can impact a child's regulation and behavior, leading to frustration and anxiety The components of Vision What you can do right now to support your child's learning 00:00 The Impact of Vision on Regulation and Behavior 06:09 The Relationship Between Body Movement and Eye Movement 16:23 The Gap in Vision Evaluations for Children with Disabilities 34:46 The Importance of Access to Complex Information 45:21 Passion for Helping Children and Adults with Vision Impairments Links mentioned in the podcast: Find a developmental optometrist here: - www.covd.org - www.noravisionrehab.org The reading app Dr. Daniel mentioned: www.bookshare.org You can reach Dr. Daniel at [email protected]

In this week's Wednesday Wind-Up, we explore the connection between motivation, feedback, choice and learning, for children with disabilities - whether Down Syndrome, Autism or a generic "learning disability". In less than 7 minutes, you will learn exactly what 2 things you can do rightaway to build learning and motivation in your child. 00:00 The Science of Motivation and Learning 03:12 Optimizing Learning for Children with Disabilities 04:59 The Power of Choice and Communication in Learning If you are interested in learning about NON LINEAR LEARNING - check out this free guide to learn 5 strategies to turn ON your child's learning switch. Non Linear Learning

Dr. Vaish Sarathy interviews Andra McHugh, the host of the Eczema Kids podcast and founder of the Eczema Kids brand. Andra shares her personal journey of dealing with her children's severe eczema and her quest to find natural solutions. In the face of extremely conflicting dietary advice, Andra cracked the code using functional nutrition and ayurveda. "There's so much that you can do within your home environment to help bring down their histamine levels and make your environment a little less triggering." - Andra McHugh Tune in to learn about: Overcoming Eczema Without Steroids Nutritional Strategies and Topical Treatments for Children's Eczema Integrating Ayurveda and Functional Medicine in Eczema Treatment Managing Eczema Through Diet You can find Andra at: Eczema Kids website Eczema Kids podcast You can download Vaish's Gut Health Toolkit here.

Functional Nutrition and Learning for Kids is being renamed and redesigned. To start with - here is a weekly Monday Mindset Shifter to think a little bit differently about your week! This week, we are talking about the opposite of grief!

In this episode of Function and Nutrition and Learning for Kids, we dive into the profound impact of nutrition on human health with Dr. John Lewis, founder and president of Dr. Lewis Nutrition. With a prolific background boasting over 180 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Lewis shares his expertise on the role of polysaccharides in brain health and immune function, and his research's implications for serious conditions such as Alzheimer's, MS, HIV, and chronic diseases. Join us as we explore the powerful impact of targeted nutritional intervention on brain health. You can find Dr. Lewis at https://www.drlewisnutrition.com/ Be sure to check out Dr. Lewis's new book The Complete Nutrition Guide to Cognitive Function Speaking of Neuroplasticity SUpport, there is still time to tune in to Dr. Vaish Sarathy's FREE workshop: BUILDING INTELLIGENCE - at https://www.drvaishsarathy.com/intelligenceworkshop [00:00:00] Polysaccharides for brain health. [00:06:38] Nutrition vs. Pharmacology. [00:12:17] Polysaccharides and their benefits. [00:24:14] Signs of inflammation. [00:28:37] Big Pharma domination in research [00:31:43] Polysaccharides for cognitive health. [00:41:38] Aloe vera polysaccharides benefits. [00:46:57] Daily Brain Care benefits.

Intelligence is not a constant. The brain is constantly changing, adapting, and learning new skills. Most tests, including IQ tests, do not measure intelligence accurately. In this episode, Dr. Vaish Sarathy talks about the role of AI, Growth Mindset in what she calls Intellectual Malleability - the idea (which comes from Neuroplasticity) that intelligence can change for anyone regardless of label or diagnosis. You can sign up for her FREE workshop on building intelligence at the link below: https://www.drvaishsarathy.com/intelligenceworkshop In this workshop, Vaish talks about the 3-step method to building intelligence in your child with disability - be that Down Syndrome or Autism.

How can we help our kids cultivate a healthy relationship with food? If your child is struggling with picky eating, Stephanie Mara Fox talks to Dr Vaish Sarathy about the Art of Somatic Eating and how to navigate food restrictions in kids. Especially in kids with disabilities (Autism, for example), it is important to understand that: - The nervous system plays a crucial role in our experience with food, and regulation is key to creating a safe and regulated environment. - Trauma can impact a person's relationship with food, and it is important to approach food behavior with empathy and curiosity. - Tools for regulation, such as body awareness and co-regulation, can be helpful in supporting children with picky eating. CHAPTERS 01:14 Understanding Somatic Eating 07:24 The Nervous System and Food 08:03 Regulation and Children's Experience with Food 15:43 The Impact of Trauma on Food Behavior 30:34 Tools for Regulation 35:05 Applying Regulation Techniques to Picky Eating You can reach Stephanie at: Website: https://www.stephaniemara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_stephaniemara/ Find Dr. Vaish Sarathy at www.instagram.com/drvaishsarathy And Download your free Picky Eating Toolkit HERE!

Being multi-lingual and multi-communicative may be the way that our kids with Autim / Down Syndrome find richness of language and expression. What does mean? And what's the latest research? Stick with me for this super-short focus episode about multimodal language and brain health! In this episode, I talk about: What the documented results are of being bilingual How you can start right now with your child What this means for communication Enjoy! Timeline: 00:56 Bilingualism and Cognitive Protection 03:12 Enhanced Memory, Attention, and Executive Function 04:11 Takeaway 1: Expose Kids to Multiple Languages 05:04 Takeaway 2: Communicate in Multiple Languages 06:00 Takeaway 3: Using Different Forms of Communication

Advocacy and Resilience are the cornerstones of parenting a child with disability. As a parent of an Autistic child or a child with Down Syndrome, how often do you find yourself navigating medical and school offices and being close to tears at the end of several meetings? Dr. Maureen Michele guides us through the work of building resilience and understanding advocacy, and finding your strong inner Mother Bear! Tune in to learn: The 3 pillars of Advocacy Dr. Maureen's parent resilience toolkit that she uses herself The single most powerful tool for building inner stability You can find Dr. Maureen at www.maureenmichelemd.com instagram.com/maureenmichelemd I am also offering my Anxiety Toolkit to you today - a 10 point checklist of things that work, when nothing seems to. You can download it for free at www.functionalnutritionforkids.com/anxietytoolkit

Why does math education seem so challenging for autistic students and those with Down syndrome? Join me as I flip the script and explore how focusing on input, rather than output, can revolutionize your student's learning journey. There are broadly 2 things we are doing wrong: Focusing on output as opposed to input Prioritizing proficiency over curiosity Listen to the episode to find out how we can flip the traditional "boring" Math script! Non Linear Education launches in 4 weeks - get on the waitlist!

Did you know that teaching Math is uniquely regulating? Not just Math, but slightly challenging Math. This episode's guest, Dr. Jen Leon, has a unique name for Math - Brain Candy! And I totally agree. -So what makes Math brain candy? -What makes it a life skill? -What makes it grow your child's mind, even if you think they have a learning disability, in fact especially if you think they have a learning disability? Listen on to learn more…. ________ Dr. Jen Leon is the Director of All Minds Academy, an online high school program for neurodiverse students who communicate best by spelling or typing. All Minds Academy recently announced a new, accredited high school diploma program through a partnership with Global Village School that's starting Fall, 2024. To learn more about Dr. Jen's math services and high school program and to schedule a complimentary initial consultation visit allmindsacademy.com. ________ If you are new to Non Linear Education principles, I (Dr Vaish Sarathy) have a brand new toolkit with 5 strategies to get you started on this journey. Use them to switch on your child's learning switch. You can find this free toolkit at www.drvaishsarathy.com/nonlinearlearning Find Dr Vaish on Instagram

If you find yourself trying diet after diet after therapy after therapy and nothing seems to either work or stick, nothing seems to take hold, this is the episode for you. Tune in to learn: the 3 pillars of core therapeutic changes that often work symbiotically to create change. why even anti-inflammatory diets sometimes fail the therapies that never work (for most people) You can get my free book on the 6 learning hacks here.

If you are tired of working day and night with your child and not seeing the needle move, if you are tired of being tired, and if you are ready to see change happen, I will tell you exactly what to do in this episode. We think that parents who bring change in their kids lives are PATIENT, HARDWORKING and INTENSE. We couldn't be more wrong - well, ok, the intense part could be right. Patience and hard work have nothing to do with results, with change. What does? Listen on … You can find Vaish's 6 learning strategies here: www.drvaishsarathy.com/learning Follow Vaish on Instagram for daily inspiration.

In this episode, Dr. Romie Mushtaq, a board-certified neurologist, discusses her journey from a traditional Western-style medical model to a mindfulness-based approach to stress. Dr. Romie emphasizes the importance of her SHIFT protocol in managing stress. Sleep Hormones Inflammation Food, and Technology While a lot of Dr. Romie's focus has been on workplace burnout, in this episode she talks to the chronic stress that sometimes parents (especially moms) of children with disability experience. Tune in to learn about: The top 3 ways to address burnout and the "freeze response" in moms What the step prior to gratitude is (it's ok to not start from gratitude) How we can redefine self care to not just survive but thrive under chronic stress. You can take Dr. Romie's Busy Brain Test at https://drromie.com/busy-brain-test/ Make sure to pre-order her book The Busy Brain Cure today - it will be out in Jan 2024. You can find Dr. Romie Mushtaq at drromie.com or www.instagram.com/drromie

"Compliance and Education are not the same thing. A student may look as though they are complying but that does not mean they are engaged and learning." - Lisa Wright Join Dr. Vaish Sarathy in this episode to dive into a transformative conversation on education and inclusion for Autistic children and children with Down Syndrome in schools with IEP coach Lisa Wright. If IEPs are challenging for you, if you spend restless nights awake in sheer terror anticipating a meeting and after an IEP meeting or a meeting with your child's school, this episode is for you! In this episode you will learn about: - The number 1 skill that teachers can benefit from… - Why your student is more than a "buddy" or "kiddo" - Common conflicts at IEP meetings - Tools for parents to help navigate school meetings - Why compliance and engagement are different - Why goals should focus on the learner strengths, not behaviors. - What a neurodiversity affirming IEP looks like! You can find Lisa Wright at https://www.lisabaskinwright.com/ or on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/lisabaskinwright/

"We want to be in a position to allow children to borrow our calm" - says Andrea Pollack in Episode 126 of Functional Nutrition and Learning for Kids. Today we are talking about something we don't address often enough - and that is regulation in a parent! There is so much discussion about regulation in our kids, but we know co-regulation is a thing, and I am really happy to be chatting about this today in my podcast. Join me in this conversation with Andrea Pollack of Autism Parent Solutions to see what it is that helps Moms regulate - how can we support our children's regulation and help them grow. It turns out that a lot of Learning and Regulation Strategies have many similar roots. Feel free to download my free book on 6 strategies that support Learning and Regulation - at www.drvaishsarathy.com/learning

If your child struggling with learning or behavior, it may be time to try an anti-inflammatory diet. On this episode of Functional Nutrition and Learning for Kids, Dr. Vaish Sarathy breaks down the 5 contrary secrets of an anti-inflammatory diet. Learn what foods to eat and avoid, how long it takes to see results, and why a least restrictive diet is the best approach. If you're looking for a way to improve your child's learning and behavior, this episode is for you! Download Dr. Sarathy's free ebook, The Gut-Health Cheat-Sheet and Toolkit for Children, at Sign up for the waitlist for her upcoming course, Roadmap to Attention and Regulation

In this thought-provoking episode, we challenge preconceived notions and dive into the power of language, identity, and embracing disability. Discover how Dr. Sarathy's personal journey led her to move beyond labels, celebrating the full embrace of disability and neurological identities. Listen to learn about: The shift from labels to identity. Embracing disability in all its forms. The impact of language on the disability community. Follow Vaish on Instagram Contact us with questions you'd like addressed on my podcast at : [email protected] [Subject: Podcast Questions] Get a free ebook on 6 transformative learning strategies: www.functionalnutritionforkids.com/learning

In this episode, we explore the concept of the 'alarm state' in children and why what we perceive as behavior might actually be a response to stress and overwhelm. We will also learn specific tools to support your children when they are in that alarm state. Michelle Brown, Herbalist, Functional Nutrition Practitioner and Biology of Trauma Practitioner leads us to understand the different states of our kids' nervous systems when they are stressed. We discuss how to recognize these states, build resources into your daily life, and provide sensory support for your child. Topics Covered: Child behavior as a response to stress and overwhelm. 0:00 Childhood overwhelm and shutdown responses. 4:58 Managing childhood overwhelm and building resilience. 9:55 Autism and sensory overload. 15:16 Managing overwhelm and chronic freeze response in moms. 20:00 Supporting children's nervous systems. 24:17 Addressing biochemical imbalances in children. 29:07 Connect: Find Vaish at www.drvaishsarathy.com and www.instagram.com/drvaishsarathy Find Michelle at www.botanacea.com Reviews and Feedback: We value your feedback and encourage you to leave a review to help us improve our content.

Description: In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of CBD and its potential benefits for children with disabilities with Dr. Bonni Goldstein. CBD is being increasingly used as a viable and safe therapy for seizures, behavior, and just regulation in general. Join us as we explore the science, stories, and practical considerations surrounding CBD use for children, specifically Autistic children. Audience: This episode is designed for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities. Key Takeaways: CBD benefits for pediatric patients with epilepsy. 2:35 Using CBD and THC for treating epilepsy and autism. 7:32 CBD dosing for Autistic kids. 12:47 CBD side-effects for Autistic children. 17:38 Caution and testimony. 29:31 Resources 40:27 Host(s): Hosted by Vaish Sarathy, Ph.D. [Functional Nutrition for Kids] Special guest: Dr. Bonni Goldstein, M.D., Cannabis Medicine Specialist Connect with Us: www.instagram.com/drvaishsarathy Support the Show: If you find our content valuable, please subscribe and share with other parents who may be intersted. We appreciate your reviews and feedback to help us improve our content. Additional Resources Mentioned: Cannabis is Medicine - Book by Dr. Goldstein Hope Grows for Autism Whole Plants Access for Autism To find healthcare practitioners knowledgeable about cannabinoid medicine, visit www.canna-centers.com

In this episode, we talk about what a severe learning disability actually is and how can you reduce it. There are other terms used for it like "low-functioning", severely autistic, severe intellectual delay. Very few of the labels actually go into the root cause of the issue. In this issue, you will learn: What a severe delay/ disability actually means What you can do to reduce the severity How to move ahead. Sign up for my FREE training where I share Behind the Scenes Wisdom and Secrets about how I teach Math and Science to children labeled with "severe" disabilities. You can sign up at the link in my bio which is www.functionalnutritionforkids.com/teachyourchild

In Episode 120, Dr. Erica Peirson and I discuss the potential risks and concerns associated with carbohydrate restrictive diets, particularly for children. CAUTION: If you / your child is already on a restrictive diet, especially for medical needs, please do not make changes without the support and Ok of a medical / nutritional professional as the case may be. This conversation is for educational purposes only. Restrictive diets are hard and tricky, so make sure you have someone by your side who knows what they are doing, and who can help you navigate. In this episode, you will learn: Purpose of the GAPS diet. 2:48 Why GAPS can fail your child? 9:12 Restrictive diets that restrict carbohydrates. 14:57 The story of a child who turned around when carbs were introduced. 17:54 Respect for the child and their body. 22:56 What to do about the fear of sugar and carbs. 29:12 Gut motility and the microbiome. 37:03 How to figure out grains and gluten? 42:06 You can find Dr. Peirson HERE. She is also on Instagram and Facebook. Here's the article referenced. How GAPS can fail your child by Judy Converse. ————————- Non-Linear Education taught by Vaish Sarathy, Ph.D. [How to teach any child with an Intellectual Delay] will soon be open for enrollment.

What does adding a Movement Therapy do to a child's learning and communication? I chatted with Sonia Story and Lili Turns out quite a lot. Welcome to Functional Nutrition and Learning for kids - the podcast where we explore learning and education for kids with disabilities such as Down syndrome and Autism from inside out. In this podcast, you will learn: Why communication may be stalled due to dis regulation What neurodevelopmental and integrative movements can do to support regulation How adding more than one complementary technique can transform a child's growth The difference between behavior and compensation. This is a pretty phenomenal episode, and here are some links if you want to know Sonia and Lili more. Brain and Sensory Foundations course Case Studies, Inspiring Stories and Research 47 pages of Evidence on brain-based movements for transforming challenges In addition, just for nervous moms, I have created a 10-step free resource to help you make most of your child's return to school this year. If you are nervous about another year with IEPs and going Back-To-School within a special ed system, check out my free resource at www.functionalnutritionforkids.com/backtoschool

How does intelligence work again? We don't know. But we do know the ONE technique, the ONE process that can help your child (and you) develop nuanced thinking skills, critical thought, an engaged mind, and an active brain - things we regard as intelligence. It is widely known in all circles, with all cognitive experts, AND even with employers to help build engagement in their companies, but the people that should be using these - TEACHERS, and PARENTS don't often use this. In this episode, Dr. Vaish Sarathy tells you exactly what to do to build your student's complex thinking skills. If you want to explore how lesson plans may look for you with this idea, please DM Vaish at www.instagram.com/drvaishsarathy You can also access her free ebook on Learning Strategies that Actually Work here.

In Episode 117, join Dr. Vaish Sarathy and Dr. Mary Wilde as they delve into the topic of anxiety in children. Discover practical strategies and insights to support mental well-being and empower children to thrive. We will: Explore how anxiety doesn't define a child's identity and learn tools to equip them for success Uncover the contributing factors to the anxiety epidemic, including social media and unfiltered information Delve into 4 essential pillars of well-being Explore the mind-body-spirit connection and the importance of cultivating safety and security You can reach Dr. Wilde at drmarywilde.com or connect on Insta at @drmarywilde. Dr. Wilde is sharing her free notes titled: "Your Road to Calm: Stress Detox for the Modern Family" by clicking HERE. If you are looking to address Anxiety through Gut Health, you can find 5 powerful tools in my Free Ebook here: www.drvaishsarathy.com/guthealth What questions remain in your mind? Send me a DM on Insta www.instagram.com/drvaishsarathy Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

The biggest variable in communication for Autistic kids / adults is REGULATION. In today's podcast Casey DePriest explains Polyvagal Theory and how this explains behavior and regulation in our kids. Make sure to tune in now to learn: What is the difference between a top-down and bottom-up approach to behavior? Why asking a child to change their behavior doesn't work The 3 types of movement challenges that Autistic kids face How do music and rhythm impact our children's movement Why regulation is the most important part of communication And much more! You can find Casey at www.optimalaccess.org You can download 6 learning strategies/ hacks for your kid with Autism here: www.drvaishsarathy.com/learning Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

Episode 115 with Dr. Christine Houghton is a SULFORAPHANE SPOTLIGHT EPISODE. You will learn: Why sulforaphane is an effective gateway therapeutic molecule, How it can be used to build up gut healing in patients, Why food doesn't work instead of supplements in this case, and What dosing looks like Why you shouldn't just overload on broccoli Sit back, relax and let's jump into Sulphoraphane. In the meantime, you can find Dr. Houghton on www.cell-logic.com.au, and you can find gut health tidbits at www.functionalnutritionforkids.com/guthealth Please consider leaving me a review on your favorite podcast platform and share this episode with your friends and family. Thanks for listening! Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

Welcome to Functional Nutrition and Learning for Kids, the podcast that helps parents and practitioners support their children's growth and development through gut health, functional nutrition principles, and effective learning strategies. In this episode, host Dr. Vaish Sarathy speaks with Animesh Kumar, a serial entrepreneur and founder of Ocean Friends, a company that uses cutting-edge AI to help families manage nutrition and behavior for children with Autism. Animesh shares his personal story of struggle in finding the right care for his son with Autism, and how this led him to develop an innovative solution to help families track their child's food intake without the burden of traditional food logs and diaries. This is an episode you won't want to miss! Visit www.oceanfriends.ai to learn more and get started. If you loved this episode, please drop us a rating and review wherever you are listening! Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Amanda Archibald about the importance of diversity in food as medicine. We discuss: Why Euro-Centric cuisines could be completely missing the point for other cultures. The significance of polyphenols and bioactives in ancient cuisines, The interplay between genetics and nutrient deficiencies Why it is super important to start with food first! Neurotransmitters and Nutrient deficienicies This is a far-reaching podcast, and we also delved into inflammation, Omega-3s, genetics, arachidonic acid, vagus nerve activation and more! Finally, we touched upon the 3 most critical nutrients for children with learning disoders. You can find more or Amanda's work at www.genomickitchen.com . If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to drop a review at www.ratethispodcast.com/vaish Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

In this episode, Dr. Vaish Sarathy answers the question of how long a child should be gluten-free. Tune in to learn about: how long it takes to be on a gluten free diet to see results the signs of success on a gluten free diet why studies can be contradictory in their results on whether going gluten free can help. the significance of gluten in children with Autism, Down Syndrome and Gut Issues is removing gluten enough? If you are looking for a course that will take you through the confusing maze of dietary interention, Roadmap to Attention and Regulation may be a good fit for you. www.functionalnutritionforkids.com/roar If you are overwhelmed by starting a diet without gluten, then my FREE Power Breakfast challenge is for you. Because we need to start somewhere - and where better than breakfast. It starts next week. So join me at www.functionalnutritionforkids.com/powerbreakfast Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

If you are struggling with your child taking hours to fall asleep or waking up at odd times in the day, you are absolutely not alone. Some studies say that up to 80% of Autistic kids experience some form of sleep disturbance. Compared to neurotypical kids, Autistic kids were seen to be 2.6 times more likely to have a problem falling asleep, and 1.5 times more likely to have problems staying asleep. And if you are concerned about learning / focus / moods, you can pretty much forget about fixing these in the absence of a good night's sleep. Sleep is a keystone habit! This means that poor sleep can affect every body system and all sorts of neurological Here are 10 strategies to help your child fall asleep from a discussion with Deepa Kannan, the Sleep Whisperer. I have curated the tips into a downloadable ebook - that you can find at www.functionalnutritionforkids.com/sleeptips - Download that here. Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

In this episode of Functional Nutrition and Learning for Kids, host Vaish talks about keystone habits and their impact on children's learning and behavior. From the importance of a blood sugar balancing breakfast to the quality of sleep and screen time, Vaish shares practical tips and insights on how parents and caregivers can make small but powerful changes to help their children reach their full potential. Tune in to discover the power of keystone habits and how they can transform your child's life. And don't forget to join Vaish's free Power Breakfast Challenge at www.functionalnutritionforkids.com/powerbreakfast to take the first step towards building your child's daily stress resilience. Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

I am in conversation with Robin Green, an expert in acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine, as she shares her knowledge and experience with Ear Seeds, a non-invasive, pain-free acupressure technique that can benefit children with Down Syndrome, Autism, ADHD, and other disabilities. Discover how Ear Seeds can help alleviate symptoms such as anxiety, focus and memory issues, pain, digestive problems, and weight loss, without any side effects. Robin explains how Ear Seeds work by stimulating specific points on the ear that correspond to different areas of the body, and shares how children can even learn to activate their own parasympathetic nervous system by pressing on their ear seeds when needed. With the Ear Seeds Ambassadors Club and a comprehensive learning track on ear anatomy, parents can empower themselves to support their children's health and wellness. You can find this at https://www.thriveearseeds.com/ . Tune in to this podcast to learn more about how Ear Seeds can provide a natural, holistic approach to helping children with disabilities live their best lives. If you are new to the world of Functional Nutrition / Learning, or simply want learning strategies for your child with disabilities, download my free ebook at www.drvaishsarathy.com/learning You are also invited to leave me a review at www.ratethispodcast.com/vaish Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

When your child learns in a Neurodivergent way - whether they have ADHD / are Autistic / have Down Syndrome, it is highly unlikely that a structured school environment that teaches concepts step-by-regimented step is working out for them. If you find your child stuck - learning the colors, learning the alphabet, learning numbers, it may be time to branch out. And by branching out, I mean dismissing the notion that addition is some sort of holy gateway to math. Move along the way of non-linear education - an interest based technique that allows your child to be a curious and effective learner. This podcast is a short dive in what Non-Linear Education means. If you want to learn more about non linear education, you can sign up for my course at www.drvaishsarathy.com/nonlineareducation If you want to hear about the journey of non-speakers, the movie SPELLERS will have its grand premiere very soon. Keep your ears tuned! Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.

Is it Sleep or is it ADHD? You could really ask that question a million ways … Is it Blood Sugar Balance or is it ADHD? And so on… And it is likely both. The name of a collection of symptoms is different from the cause of the symptoms. In Functional Nutrition and Learning for Kids we look at the Ins and Outs of Learning and Brain Health. What comes from the inside - nutrition and gut health, and what comes from the outside - learning skills and educational strategies. Sleep comes from both the inside and the outside, making it on of the most critical things in learning. Sleep Disorder and ADHD in Kids can have so many overlapping symptoms, per today's guest Dr. Meghna Dassani. And if you think your child is sleeping well, please think again. Dr. Dassani packs a lot of information in this podcast - you can reach her at www.meghnadassani.com Disclaimer: The information in this Podcast is for educational purposes only. Vaishnavi Sarathy, Ph.D. is an educator, not a doctor, specifically not your child's doctor. Please consult your physician before implementing any supplement or diet recommendations.