The Better Behavior Show with Dr. Nicole Beurkens

My guest this week is Maria Davis-Pierre, the founder and CEO of Autism in Black Inc. This organization aims to bring awareness to autism and reduce the stigma associated with the diagnosis in the Black community. Her unique approach exemplifies her drive and motivation toward greater acceptance and overcoming the barriers and personal struggles associated with raising a Black autistic child. Maria has been featured in Forbes, The New York Times, she's collaborated with Microsoft, and personally has a wealth of experience on this topic. In this episode, Maria and I discuss the unique stigma and struggles in the Black community as it relates to autism and related kinds of disabilities. Maria describes how we can better meet the needs of Black families who have children on the autism spectrum or other neurodiverse challenges. This topic is not talked about enough, I hope practitioners, school professionals, and parents put into practice all of the advice Maria provides in this episode. Learn more about Maria here. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Salome, "My 10-year-old son is academically and socially gifted, but has issues around writing, even though he's an avid reader and speaker. I trace it back to earlier school years where he had mechanical difficulties with fine motor skills, with holding the pencil, forming letters, etc. And my reaction to it was over-practicing and pressuring him to try harder. I've come a long way and see how unhelpful that was. Now, he resists writing and it turns into a major battle. What would you suggest I do to help him get over this?" In this episode, I will address how to overcome writing resistance and difficulties with children. We will discuss the complexities around why writing is one of the biggest academic challenges, and provide you with lots of simple tips, strategies, and resources to encourage writing skill development. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Mary Voogt, she is a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, feeding expert, wife, and a homeschooling mom to four who used to be selective eaters. She is the founder of Just Take a Bite and creator of The Mouth Mind Movement Minerals Method to get kids to say "Mmm!" to nourishing food every day. She uses a combination of nutritional therapy, eating styles profiling, EFT, and hair tissue mineral analysis to assess kids and get to the root cause of feeding challenges and create a personalized plan to overcome them. She blogs about her passion for nourishing food and empowering kids to take ownership of their health. And when she's not in the kitchen, teaching her kids, or working with clients, Mary enjoys reading, walking, yoga, and spending time with her family on their 10-acre hobby farm and orchard. In this episode, Mary and I discuss how to empower kids to be healthy eaters. We delve into a unique way of thinking about eating styles in kids, and why it's important to understand each child's specific needs around eating, including how things like their personality and activity level play a role in eating. Learn more about Mary Voogt here. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Elizabeth, "My son, who is 7 is still bursting into tears, yelling, stomping, and throwing things when he makes a mistake or doesn't get his way. It's hard for him to self-regulate when he has reached his red zone." In today's Q&A, I'll be talking about strategies that can help your child learn to regulate their emotions as they go through developmental phases that can be overwhelming and challenging. We are going to cover a lot of ground; some specific parenting strategies you can try in the moment, some longer-term strategies that are critical to success, and some big picture things to be thinking about in terms of the underlying cause. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Sarah Frisch, an independent, agender autistic adult. Since their diagnosis in adulthood, they have earned a BA in psychology and pursued a career in autism consulting. They work with parents and other autistic people as well as organizations like Autism Support of Kent County and the Department of Defense's Autism Research Program. When not expanding their understanding of the many and varied experiences in the autism spectrum, they enjoy gardening and foraging for wild food as well as spending time with their spouse. In this episode, Sarah and I discuss their experience of growing up autistic, but not knowing it until adulthood, experiences in adulthood thus far, and what might be helpful for parents and professionals to know about how to best support people with brain-based differences throughout their lifespan. This is a fantastic episode for parents of children with autism to listen to (as well as family members and professionals). Learn more about Sarah here. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Shante, "My 7-year-old son stomps, screams, yells and constantly says, 'I hate you mom, you're so mean.' I tell him to use other words to express what about me is mean. Should I tell him to go to his room? How do I get him to stop doing this all the time, even when he's slightly upset or frustrated? I also have a 3-year-old, and I don't like that she's learning and watching her brother respond to me and yell at me that way, because now she's calling me mean and screaming and yelling. I'm feeling lost, please help." In this episode, I will address what is really going on when an upset child becomes verbally hostile and says really hurtful things. We will discuss specific strategies, things to say, ways to get through these moments, and then some things to implement in the long term. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Brendan Mahan. He is an internationally recognized ADHD and Executive Function expert, a highly engaging, sought-after speaker, and the host of the "ADHD Essentials" podcast. A former teacher, mental health counselor, and principal, Brendan helps individuals, families, schools, and businesses manage the challenges of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and neurodiversity through an approach that blends education, collaborative problem solving, and accountability with compassion, humor, a focus on strengths and growth, and his trademark Wall of Awful model. In this episode, Brendan and I discuss some of the major challenges parents and families face when a member of the family has ADHD and ways to support them and celebrate their strengths. Brendan tells us about the Wall of Awful and how this philosophy can help people with ADHD approach difficult tasks in a more positive way. Learn more about Brendan here. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Penny Williams. Penny helps parents of challenging kids feel less alone and break down the barriers to success and joy for their families and for themselves. Through her podcast, award-winning books, online parent training programs and conferences, parent coaching, and mom retreats, she has helped thousands of neurodiverse families survive and thrive in the face of ADHD and/or Autism. In this episode, we get to hear all about Penny's experience as a mom of a neurodiverse child and how she rose to the challenge and became an expert in helping parents and families see the right path for their children. Penny has so many encouraging things to say to parents and gives some good take-home tips as well. Learn more about Penny here. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Heather, "Hi Dr. Nicole, my four-and-a-half-year-old son is a good kid, but we can't get him to focus on learning. All he wants to do is run and play. When they have circle time at school, he'll only sit for four minutes, then he's up and looking for something else. I am trying so hard to teach him his ABC's, and he just says "Nope, let's play." or "Not now, mom", but yet if I give him my cell phone, he can be on it for an hour watching shows without a problem. I just don't know what else to try. He's also lacking in some speech development by about a year, and I have an appointment to get a referral for speech therapy. Not sure if I should ask about ADD or other issues." In this episode I will address the question - what is a normal attention span for a young child and why does screen time seem to hold their attention when nothing else will. I will also share effective strategies to improve focus and learning in children that never seem to want to sit still. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Tammi Van Hollander, a licensed clinical social worker and Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. She spent over 20 years working with children, families and individuals. Her work and creative interventions in the field of play therapy have been published and internationally recognized. Tammi is the author of a multi-sensory, attachment-based children's book titled, Casey's Greatness Wings: Teaching Mindfulness, Connection, and Courage to Children. The success of the book inspired her to create Casey's Greatness Sticks & Greatness Cards to be used in schools, counseling and in the home. She specializes in attachment, sand tray play therapy & sensory integration work with infants, children, families, and adults. She is a certified Advanced Trainer for the Nurtured Heart Approach, a certified FirstPlay practitioner and a founding board member of The World Association for Sand Therapy Professionals. In this episode, Tammi and I discuss the Nurtured Heart Approach. This is the relationship-focused approach to supporting kids with challenges (also works for children without a diagnosis). When we talk about behavior challenges, so often our focus goes to the negative, but it really is true that the things that we focus our energy on tend to become bigger. And as you'll hear in this episode, that's one of the big reasons why there is a focus on the positive and on greatness in the Nurtured Heart Approach. We want to spotlight positives and focus our relational energy and interactions on the good in ourselves as well as our kids. Behavioral psychology is such a fascinating field and what I like about this method is that it helps to change everyone for the better. Learn more about Tammi here. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Alexandra, "How do I guide my 9-year-old, only child, to play independently with something other than his iPad?" In this episode I will address the dreaded, "I'm bored!" complaint parents hear so often outside of screen-time. I will share creative ideas for non-device activities that your child can do independently, why boredom is actually healthy for development, and how to properly react to a child when they are upset with the boundaries and expectations that are set for them. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Jenny Friedman and I discuss How to manage picky eating issues with your kids. She is a registered dietitian who specializes in pediatric extreme picky eating. Known for her playful and approachable style, Jennifer is a leading resource for parents and professionals working with children who struggle at mealtimes. She is the author of Stories of Extreme Picky Eating and shares her insight on her website and her blog and on social media Learn more about Jenny Friedman here. In this episode, Jenny and I discuss one of the most popular questions I get in the clinic "what to do with picky eaters?" She offers excellent expert advice in this episode that provides parents with a roadmap of where to start and how to think about this from their kids' perspective. We'll discuss the bridging method, language around food, and other changes you can make to food that help your child move in the right direction of trying more foods. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Nida, "One of the things I'm struggling with right now is whether to focus on academics with my daughters this summer. Both of them are in elementary school and have some learning challenges. It has been a real struggle to help them focus and benefit from the virtual learning situations this past year. I'm feeling a lot of pressure from the school and my family to try to catch up with academics before the next school year, but I really feel like we all need a break from it. I am conflicted and wondering if you have an opinion on this." In this episode, I will address the dilemma parents are facing with feeling like their child may have fallen behind this last year in school. I'll give some insight on whether or not summer school might be a good option for your child and how to enjoy the summer while also best preparing your kids for the fall of 2021 school year. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Alisa Foreman. She has a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Phillips Graduate Institute. She has a strong passion for the field of psychology and supporting others on their life path through the power of therapy. She began her work at the California Counseling Center providing therapy to children, adolescents, couples, and families. She has also served as a child therapist for the Los Angeles Unified School District, where she has conducted individual and group therapy at the elementary through high school level. Alisa is the clinical director at Optimum Performance Institute and has been a part of that team for the past 11 years. She is enthusiastic about the work that she does there and the opportunity to help young adults on their journey to independence. She believes in the importance of finding joy and balance in life and building a healthy repertoire of skills to manage day-to-day life. In this episode, Alisa Foreman and I discuss young adults, particularly the struggles that some of them experience with transitioning into independent adulthood, and how we can best support them. You may have heard the term "failure to launch", which basically means that an individual who has the ability to move into independent adulthood has not yet been able to do so, and there can be a variety of reasons for that. Alisa and I give some examples of how parents can help young adults transition into adulthood successfully. Learn more about Alisa Foreman here. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Audrey, "My son is six and has been diagnosed with ADHD. We struggle with managing his impulsive and disrespectful behavior sometimes at home. His pediatrician says we should use more rewards and punishments and specifically told me to use exercise as a consequence or punishment when he does inappropriate things, like make him do push-ups, run up and down the stairs, jumping jacks, those kinds of things. Something about that just seems off to me, but maybe it is the best thing to do. What do you think?" In this episode, I will address how to manage challenging behaviors in children with or without ADHD. Ultimately the real work, on the part of parents and professionals, is figuring out what kinds of skills the child is lacking that they resort to challenging behavior. Understanding why your child is unable to meet your expectations takes some observation, patience, and empathy. There are many ways you can help your child develop the skills to regulate their emotions, I give some examples of how to do this in this episode. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Ginny Yurich, a Michigan mom of 5 who committed several years ago to having her kids spend 1000 hours a year outdoors. She is the founder of 1000 Hours Outside. She is a thought-leader in the world of nature-based play and its benefits for children. One of her top priorities is to inspire parents to invest in spending time in nature with their children. Her 1000 Hours Outside Challenge spans the globe and has been featured on The Today Show, Weather Channel, Better Homes and Gardens and so many more. Many from all walks of life look to her for inspiration as well as practical tips on how to put down the screens and get outside. Ginny has a degree in Mathematics, a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Michigan, is a speaker, author, and illustrator. Check out her children's book, The Little Farmhouse in West Virginia and 1000 Hours Outside Activity Book, Low Tech Nature Activities in a High Tech World. In this episode, Ginny and I discuss how to get kids to spend more time in nature and why it's so important for their development and mental health. There is overwhelming evidence supporting the health benefits of outdoor time and while it sounds easy to get outside more, it can be tricky. Lots of things can get in the way like weather, schedules, finding a safe place, etc. Ginny has some easy ways to approach and overcome these hurdles so it's easier to make the commitment. We hope you and your family find your way to 1000 hours outdoors each year. Learn more about Ginny Yurich here. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Rebecca, " My 9-year-old daughter has always been what I would describe as a worried or more anxious child. But in the past year, with COVID, it has really ramped up. She has developed fears around doing things that didn't use to be a problem for her, including going to school. She is more clingy to me and concerned when I leave the house, and bedtime has become more frustrating because she doesn't want to sleep alone. I raised these concerns with her pediatrician, who said she has an anxiety disorder and gave me a referral to a local counselor who works with kids. He also told me that she probably needs medication and offered a prescription which I was not interested in at the time. Now the counselor has met with her a few times and tells me that my daughter doesn't really open up in sessions and has severe anxiety that will require medication to treat. I feel conflicted about all of this because I'm not sure anyone is really looking at what's going on, and I don't want her on medication if there are other things that can be helpful. Are there alternatives to anxiety medication? Thanks for any insight you have." In this episode, I will discuss the many inputs that may be causing the child's anxiety. And how to communicate with your child's provider when you don't agree with their recommendations for medication. So I'm going to focus my answer there, recognizing that there are many very effective non-medication treatments for anxiety. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Mr. Chazz. His mission in life is to enjoy the process of becoming the best version of himself and help others do the same. He helps adults see, guide, and trust children. Mr. Chazz is an Educational Specialist who, "teaches teachers to teach" in a chain of Child Development Centers. He works closely with 8 different schools, 100s of teachers, and 1,000s of children. He has trained thousands of teachers in person and virtually, and earned his Master's in Executive Leadership at American University. He is in the process of writing a book and has his own podcast called "Mr. Chazz's Leadership, Parenting and Teaching Podcast. He also coaches people in his Patreon community. In this episode, Mr. Chazz and I discuss how to break the cycle of the way we respond to children. The way we adults respond is rooted in our childhood experiences, how we were parented, and the models that we've had personally in our lives like teachers, coaches, older siblings, etc. Once we understand these cycles, we can make a more conscious choice about what we want to keep and what we want to change in terms of our understanding and responses, and this gives us a really powerful foundation for truly supporting and meeting the needs of kids in more effective ways. Learn more about Mr. Chazz here. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Gina and Matt, "Our 7-year-old son doesn't have a diagnosed condition but has always struggled with his attention and focus, is very active, and sometimes has trouble managing his behaviors. He struggles with his behavior at school and sometimes gets angry and lashes out when he feels frustrated and overwhelmed. It could be pushing or hitting another child, tearing up his papers, or running and hiding in the bathroom. This year, we've had an issue with the school calling us when these things happen and insisting that we come to pick him up. He has been suspended multiple times, as they request that we keep him home when this happens. We don't feel like being sent home from school for bad behavior is solving the problem, and in some ways, it's teaching him that when he does these things he gets to come home. It's also very frustrating for us because we are busy in our work settings and have to drop everything to come and get him from school. We feel like there must be a better way to manage this but aren't sure how to address it or if we even have a say in the matter. Please help." In this episode, I will address considerations for disruptive behavior at school and how to work collaboratively with your child's school to come up with solutions. Being sent home from school for bad behavior is not a viable long-term solution however there are ways you can work with the school to better support the child. I will also discuss the types of support programs that are commonly available, within most schools, to help your child. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Dr. Austin Perlmutter, a board-certified internal medicine physician and New York Times bestselling author. He received his medical degree from the University of Miami and completed his internal medicine residency at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland Oregon. His focus is on helping others to improve decision-making and quality of life. He is also interested in methods of understanding and reducing burnout in the medical field, and he is the co-author of Brain Wash. He writes for Psychology Today on his blog, The Modern Brain. In this episode, Austin and I discuss how the inputs of our daily lives affect our brains. When you recognize that the brain is always evolving to better adapt to the environment, you start to look at the inputs in your life that change your life. Like screen time, food, sleep, movement, connectedness, and mindfulness. These are all rewiring our brains on a daily basis. It is only when your body and mind feel strong and able, that you are capable of making good decisions about your inputs. If you are looking for ways to improve your cognition, decision-making, and mood, Austin includes lots of examples of how to do that. Learn more about Austin Perlmutter. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Katy, "I'm wondering about your opinion on spanking a child who seems to be intentionally misbehaving and doesn't seem phased by anything else we do to stop inappropriate behavior. Spanking or a threat of spanking seems to at least get his attention and stop the behavior for a bit. I don't like doing it but I feel like for really big things, maybe it's the only way to go. Wondering about your thoughts and if there is some kind of bigger damage I am doing if I use spanking on a very limited basis." In this episode, I will address why spanking is not an effective form of discipline and what to do instead. While many of us may have grown up getting spanked, we now have good evidence backed by research that shows that spanking is not the way to go. Mainly because spanking doesn't address the root of the problem. I'll also address why challenging behavior may be persisting and what to do about it. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Greg Santucci, he is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and the Founding Director of Power Play Pediatric Therapy in New Jersey. He has been an OT for over 20 years, and currently is a Supervisor of Occupational Therapy at Children's Specialized Hospital in New Jersey. Greg is certified in sensory integration and continues to maintain a caseload in the schools and outpatient sensory gyms where he works. In this episode, Greg and I discuss how many of the approaches being used with children who exhibit challenging behaviors are outdated, they are not supported by current research, and there are many adults on the autism spectrum and with related kinds of issues who have started to speak out about the trauma they experienced during these kinds of therapies when they were kids. Unfortunately, these types of approaches continue to be recommended in schools, in some therapy settings, and at home, so I'm thankful for people like Greg who are advocating for developmentally and neurologically supportive approaches that actually meet the needs of kids. Learn more about Greg here. Connect with Dr. Beurkens on Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

This weeks question is from Elisa, "My 14-year-old daughter doesn't like to go outside. She prefers being home and gets very uncomfortable in the spring and summer because she might sweat or because there are insects and bugs outside. She avoids any outdoor time now. I know it would be good for her to spend some time outdoors, and honestly, her anxiety about this gets in the way of activities she and our family need to do. Do you have any suggestions?" In this episode, I will address several possibilities for why children may resist going outside. Anxiety could be at the core of this issue but it could also be caused by sensory processing issues. Either way, there are plenty of things you can do to you can help your child work through these feelings. Going outside is a healthy and natural part of life with so many benefits so I hope this episode helps you and your children get outside more often. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Debbie Reber, a New York Times best-selling 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 the iTunes Kids & Family category, with nearly 3 million downloads and a slate of guests that includes high-profile thought leaders across the parenting and education space. A certified Positive Discipline trainer and a regular contributor to Psychology Today and ADDitude Magazine, Debbie's newest book is Differently Wired: Raising an Exceptional Child in a Conventional World. In this episode, Debbie and I discuss what parenting a neurodiverse or differently wired kid looks like in today's world. We put aside the stigma, the school-enforced goals, and the "fix" your child model and focus on the child's strengths and needs. The journey of parenting a differently wired child is a marathon, not a sprint, Debbie offers amazing resources on where to start and how to help your child thrive. Learn more about Debbie's work here. Follow Debbie Website Instagram @tiltparenting @debbiereber Facebook Twitter @tiltparenting @debbiereber Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

This weeks question is from Rosa, "I'm very concerned about my 5-year-old son. For the past 3 weeks, he has changed his behavior to the point where he doesn't want to go to school, says he's having nightmares, doesn't want to sleep alone, has eyes 'shaking', a funny stomach and he's complaining that his eyes hurt. I'm worried. He has never had these issues before. He did have some kind of flu illness about 3 weeks ago, and 2 weeks ago, he started in-person school. I don't know if those things are related or not, but I need to do something to help him." In this episode, I will address a few things that might be going on here. There could be some psychological and/or physiological components to this sudden behavior change. It could stem from the illness she describes, from the anxiety of starting school, or both. I'll give her some tips on how to talk to her son about what she's noticing and how to address these issues depending on where they stem from. It's important to help kids develop coping skills, keep new activities to a minimum while they regulate, and keep an eye on their eating habits and sleep. And finally, I'll explain why it's important to discuss this with the child's teacher. I hope many parents find this example and these tips helpful! You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Sheila Frick, an internationally esteemed clinician, lecturer, and pioneer in Occupational Therapy. Sheila has over 40 years of clinical experience, having worked in psychiatry, rehabilitation, and home health before specializing in pediatrics. Her expertise includes sensory processing dysfunction, sensory integration, and auditory interventions. Sheila is well-known for expanding sensory processing treatments to include sound interventions. She has trained over 15,000 therapists worldwide to implement Therapeutic Listening within their clinical practice. She lectures on topics like clinical neurology, respiration, the vestibular/auditory system, and various auditory interventions. She is also the creator and author of Listening With the Whole Body, along with several other books and resources. In this episode, Sheila and I discuss the connection between listening, sensory processing, sensory integration, and brain function. When most people think about sensory processing, they might think of things like sensitivity to touch or light, or maybe a child having a difficult time tolerating taste or textures in food, or maybe even somebody being overwhelmed by loud noises, but the auditory components of sensory processing go well beyond that, and we can actually use different aspects of listening as a therapeutic tool to support sensory processing and brain functioning. Learn more about Sheila Frick here. Follow Sheila Frick Website Facebook Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

This week's question is from Teresa, "My 10-year-old daughter can create huge messes, not only in her room but also in every room in her house, from the living room to the kitchen to the bathroom. She moves from one thing to the next so quickly that I could spend my whole day cleaning up after her. I get that she has executive functioning problems associated with her ADHD, learning challenges, and trauma issues. However, even when reminded or when help is offered, she is extremely resistant and does everything from ignoring the request to refusing to completely flee the situation. Even when I try the "When/Then" strategy, it can turn into a huge battle to try to get her to accomplish the clean-up that she's more than capable of. And most of the time, I offer to help and/or get her started. Is there a better way to hold her accountable for the messes she makes? I've tried doing clean-up several times a day so it's smaller, but the resistance is the same. We've tried talking when she's in good spirits about how when everyone helps, we have more time for fun stuff together, but she just doesn't seem to get it, and it's really wearing on me. Help." In this episode, I provide proactive strategies, executive function skills strategies, and some reactive strategies for how to address this kind of situation. I hope parents everywhere will find these strategies to be helpful. Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Michelle Winner, MA, CCC-SLP who specializes in the treatment of individuals with social learning challenges and is the founder and CEO of Social Thinking®, a company dedicated to helping individuals from four through adulthood develop their social competencies to meet their personal social goals. Michelle coined the term "Social Thinking" in the mid-1990s and since that time has created numerous unique treatment frameworks and curricula that help educators, clinicians, professionals of all types, and parents/family members appreciate that social capabilities are integral to a person's success in life, socially, academically, and professionally. In this episode, Michelle and I discuss what social skills actually entail. Most people, including education professionals, believe that social skills can be taught the way other competencies are taught. Michelle has dedicated her entire career to helping school professionals and parents understand that social skills involve so much more. That's why she created "Social Thinking" courses. Many people have the ability to hear their own thoughts, that inner voice, and observe their thoughts before speaking or taking action. This enables them to engage in a conversation, join a group, meet new people, etc. Michelle noticed early on that there are many people in the world, even high academic achievers, who do not possess this ability innately. So she has designed several programs, developed research, and written many papers on how to help people learn social thinking. Head over to SocialThinking.com for lots of free resources on this topic.

This question comes from Travis and Mandy: "Our son is 9 years old and has never slept well, even since he was a baby. He has always been very active, tends to overreact to even small things and is irritable most days. Since he has been in school, we've had concerns raised by his teachers every year about his difficulty with staying still, focusing, being impulsive and getting his work done. We definitely see these things at home when we try to get him to do homework or focus on things he doesn't want to do. We're trying to get him to bed on time but he really struggles to fall asleep and then comes out of his room a lot. He wants to get in bed with us, which we let him do most of the time so we can get some sleep. We've noticed that he moves around a ton during the night and we're constantly getting kicked. He wakes up grouchy most mornings and it's really hard to get him going. Our pediatrician and some family members have suggested that he probably has ADHD and maybe some other kinds of behavioral issues and should be evaluated, but I can't help but think that his bad sleep might have something to do with these problems. We'd love any insights you have on this. Thanks. Travis and Mandy." In this episode, I will address several things that I recommend looking at in order to get an idea of the main issues that are keeping your child from a good night's sleep. These are things you want to consider before going in for some kind of mental health or behavior diagnosis. Things like physiological and psychological barriers that interrupt sleep, snoring, or night mares for example. I'll talk about sleep routines, sleep quantity and quality, and of course nutrition. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Dr. Julia Rucklidge, a Professor of Clinical Psychology in the School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing at the University of Canterbury, the Director of Te Puna Toiora, the Mental Health, and Nutrition Research Lab, and co-author of The Better Brain. Julia completed her Ph.D. in clinical psychology at the University of Calgary, in 2000, she immigrated to New Zealand. Over the last twenty years, Professor Rucklidge has become well known for her research investigating the interface between nutrition and mental health and has published over 140 scientific papers. Julia is also the recipient of numerous local and international awards, including named as one of the top 100 influential women in New Zealand, and is frequently featured in the media discussing her work. Her TEDx talk, "The surprisingly dramatic role of nutrition in mental health" has been viewed over 1.7 million times. She recently created a free EdX online course for the public on mental health and nutrition. Having witnessed conventional treatments failing so many people, Julia is passionate about helping people find alternative treatments for their psychiatric symptoms. Through her focus on translating research into practice, she hopes to help make nutritional interventions mainstream. In this episode, Julia and I discuss the compelling research on the connection between nutrition and mental health challenges such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. There is definitive research that supports food and nutrition as a natural treatment for these issues and for too long this research has been dismissed. Julia is committed to ongoing research in this area and gives parents good reason to consider micro-nutrient therapy first before pharmaceuticals. Learn more about Julia Rucklidge... Book - The Better Brain Instagram - @ucmentalhealthandnutrition Facebook - @mentalhealthandnutrition Twitter - @JuliaRucklidge Website Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

This weeks question is from Marisol, "I have felt for a while that my boys seem easier to manage when they haven't been eating a lot of sweets and junk food. One of my sons seems especially sensitive to food. He gets really hyper with sugar, and yet he really craves it. So it's hard to balance sometimes. He throws a lot of temper tantrums and gets upset really easily. His preschool teachers have noted he seems more irritable and acts out more than the other kids. A big challenge is that my husband doesn't think there's any reason to consider food when it comes to our kids' behavior or health in general. He says they aren't overweight, so it's not a problem. He doesn't think there's any reason to consider the ways we feed the boys in terms of their learning and their behavior. I know this isn't true, but how can I get him to understand and help me make some changes that might help?" In this episode, I will address the food-behavior connection and will talk about why some parents resist changing their children's diet and how to get them on the same page. If a partner still doesn't agree, I'll give you some tips on how to keep moving forward with what you think is best for you and your children. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

My guest this week is Autumn Smith, the co-founder of Paleovalley and Wild Pastures. Autumn holds a Masters in Holistic Nutrition, she's a Certified Eating Psychology Coach and a Certified FDN Practitioner. Her passion for health began with her own struggles with IBS and anxiety: despite a career as a professional dancer and celebrity fitness trainer, Autumn's own health was in shambles. Desperate for a cure, she and her husband Chas stumbled upon the paleo diet in 2011 and within a month of beginning it, her health was completely transformed. Autumn then made it her mission to share the information she had learned with as many people as possible: that's when she co-founded Paleovalley, an organic whole-food supplement and paleo snack food company that prioritizes nutrient density and food quality. In this episode, Autumn and I discuss the nature of kids' diets today and how parents can make small shifts to improve the quality and nutrient density of the food they take in. Kids can certainly survive on a diet of carbs and high-sugar dairy products but they can't necessarily thrive on that diet. Growing brains need good-quality protein, fats, and greens in order to function and grow to their potential. Paleovalley has made it really easy to incorporate these small shifts. Their beef and turkey sticks are packed with nutrition and protein, their bars are delicious and full of healthy fats and just one serving per day of their kid-friendly greens powder has enough nutrients to hit your daily intake of greens. Follow Autumn Smith Instagram - @PaleoValley Facebook - lovepaleovalley Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

This week's question is from Jessica, "My son struggles with sitting still at school and while doing homework. He is medicated (for ADHD) but his teacher and others at his school are recommending I increase his medication but I don't know if I want to do that. What should I do?" In this episode, I will address a number of things that I think will be helpful for all parents. Not just kids who have been diagnosed with ADHD. The number one takeaway here is that movement while learning is not only normal for all kids but it is essential for learning. Then I will give lots of helpful tips about things you can do to help your child learn in a way that works for them. Lastly, I will address medication and why it is not the teacher's job to recommend medication. You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com

I want to welcome back Julie Lythcott-Haims the New York Times bestselling author of the anti-helicopter parenting manifesto How to Raise an Adult. Julie believes in humans and is deeply interested in what gets in our way. Her TED Talk on the subject has more than 5 million views, and in 2020 she became a regular contributor with CBS This Morning on parenting. Her second book is the critically-acclaimed and award-winning prose poetry memoir Real American, which illustrates her experience as a Black and biracial person in white spaces. Her third book, Your Turn: How to Be an Adult, is out now! Julie is a former corporate lawyer and Stanford dean who holds a BA from Stanford, a JD from Harvard, and an MFA in Writing from California College of the Arts. Julie serves on several boards for organizations doing meaningful work in the world and is a mother of young adult children. In this episode, Julie and I discuss the nuances of becoming an adult. When does it happen, after graduation? Your first job? Moving out of your parent's house? The fact is, becoming an adult is different for everyone. There is no road sign that you pass along the way with "welcome to adulthood" in bright lights. Becoming an adult is a process and a journey. Julie wrote Your Turn: How to Be an Adult for everyone, no matter the circumstance. The inclusivity in this book is commendable. I recommend this book to all parents and most importantly to anyone looking for a guide on how to become an adult. Learn more about Julie Lythcott-Haims julielythcotthaims.com @jlythcotthaims on Instagram, facebook, TikTok, Twitter Book: Your Turn: How to Be an Adult

Welcome to the first of many Q & A episodes where I answer your questions! You can submit a question by emailing us at [email protected] with the subject line "Podcast Question." Our first question is from Gina, "My 13-year-old daughter is struggling with anxiety and mood issues. It seems to be worse the past year and a half. She seems to be anxious about school work, her relationship with her friend, and bad things happening to us (her parents). She's spending a lot of time in her room, has decided not to eat meat, and seems tired and out of touch. She saw a counselor before COVID and seemed to find that helpful. What should I do" In the episode, I break down my observations and tips into these categories Normal teen behavior, Anxiety symptoms and triggers, Sleep, Nutrition, and Counseling. These kinds of questions are very common in my practice and so I think this episode will resonate well with parents of tweens and teens. Tune in each week for more Q & A episodes! Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Dr. Drew Ramsey, a psychiatrist, author, farmer, teacher, and advocate who is a long-time proponent of the healing power of food, understanding dietary change to help balance moods, sharpen brain function and improve mental health. He is a leading innovator in mental health, combining clinical excellence, nutritional interventions, and creative media. He is an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons and in active clinical practice in New York City. His work and writing have been featured by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, The Huffington Post, Lancet Psychiatry, and NPR, which named him a "kale evangelist", and he's made appearances on the Today Show, BBC, and TEDx. He is the author of 4 books, Eat to Beat Depression & Anxiety, Eat Complete: The 21 Nutrients that Fuel Brain Power, Boost Weight Loss and Transform Your Health, 50 Shades of Kale, and The Happiness Diet. His new e-course, Eat To Beat Depression, helps people maximize their brain health with every bite. In this episode, Dr. Ramsey and I discuss how to eat to beat depression and anxiety. Nutrient density plays a huge role in supporting brain growth and mental health so what should we eat? Dr. Drew gives us a list of important nutrients for brain function and a list of what he calls power foods. While you may think that leafy greens and salmon will not be popular on your kid's plate, Dr. Drew encourages us to try to add these foods in a way that isn't jarring. We're not talking about a total overhaul here but instead, looking for ways you can make a pancake or a smoothie more nutrient dense. Learn more about Dr. Drew Ramsey Website Instagram @drewramseymd Twitter @DrewRamseyMD Facebook Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Dr. Caroline Leaf, a communication pathologist and cognitive neuroscientist with a Masters and Ph.D. in Communication Pathology. Since the early 1980s, Dr. Leaf has researched the mind-brain connection, the nature of mental health, and the formation of memory. During her years in clinical practice and work with thousands of underprivileged teachers and students in her home country of South Africa and in the US, she developed her theory of how we think, build memory, and learn, into tools and processes that have transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands of individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, and even issues like anxiety and depression. Dr. Leaf is the bestselling author of multiple books, including her newest release, Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess. She is currently conducting clinical trials using the 5-step program she developed to further demonstrate the effectiveness of mind-directed techniques to help relieve problems such as anxiety, depression, and intrusive thoughts. In this episode, Dr. Leaf and I discuss how to change your brain by changing your mind through mind-directed techniques taught in her new book, Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess. Dr. Leaf shares with the audience how her techniques like "Neurocycling" and "Brain-building" can be used to relieve mental health problems such as anxiety and depression and to improve developmental and learning disabilities. To learn more about Dr. Caroline Leaf click here. Where to learn more about Dr. Caroline Leaf … DrLeaf.com Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess Book Instagram Facebook Twitter Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Michelle Icard, an author, speaker and educator who helps kids, parents, and teachers navigate the complicated social world of early adolescence. Her latest book is Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen, which guides readers through the fourteen essential conversations parents need to have with their kids before they begin high school. Michelle is a member of the TODAY Show parenting team, NBC News Learn, and her work has been featured in the Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, The Christian Science Monitor, Redbook, Time, and People. Her leadership curriculum for middle schoolers, Athena's Path, and Hero's Pursuit, have been implemented at schools across the U.S., and her summer camp curriculum is offered at more than 20 camps each summer. In this episode, Michelle and I discuss the tricky stages of how to communicate effectively with teens and tweens as they navigate growth and desire more independence. Michelle shares with parents how to engage with their teens during these formative years of social and emotional changes and ways to maintain their interest while growing in respect of one another. Where to learn more about Michelle Icard … MichelleIcard.com Book: Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen Less Stressed Middle School Parents Facebook Group Instagram Facebook Twitter Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Dr. Asia Muhammad, a naturopathic doctor who values the power of lifestyle modifications to achieve optimal health. Asia uses evidence-based medicine to provide individualized care to each patient. As a naturopathic doctor, she is able to provide care in the realm of nutrition, exercise recommendations, supplementation, botanical medicine, and mind-body therapies such as hypnosis. Asia has a special interest in gastroenterology, mind-body medicine, and stress management, as increasing research demonstrates the role of stress in disease. She has received additional training in mind-body therapies, including hypnosis, guided imagery, biofeedback, autogenic training, and progressive muscle relaxation. In this episode, Dr. Muhummad and I discuss how to identify and treat your child's constipation naturally. Constipation is one of the most common physical health complaints in children that can result in both physical and emotional discomfort. Dr.Muhummad demonstrates the connection of mood, anxiety, and behavior challenges in relationship to constipation and safe and effective ways to immediately address constipation. To learn more about Dr. Asia Muhammad click here. Where to learn more about Asia Muhammad … AsiaMuhammad.com Instagram Facebook Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Dr. Michele Borba, an internationally renowned educational psychologist and expert in parenting, bullying, and character development. She is an award-winning author of 22 books that have been translated into 14 languages. As one of the foremost authorities on childhood development, she is an NBC contributor who appears regularly on Today and has been featured as an expert on Dateline, The View, Dr. Phil, NBC Nightly News, Fox & Friends, The Dr. Oz Show, and The Early Show and more. Dr. Borba blends 40 years of teaching and consulting experience with the latest science to offer sound, realistic advice to parents, teachers, and child advocates about helping children thrive.In this episode, Dr. Borba and I discuss the science behind her seven teachable traits to help children thrive throughout childhood and into adulthood. After decades of experience and research, Dr. Borba shares practical and actionable tips and tools for parents to raise happier, healthier, and more resilient children. To learn more about Dr. Michele Borba click here. Where to learn more about Michele Borba … MicheleBorba.com Thrivers Book Instagram Twitter Facebook Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Melanie Potock, an international speaker on the topic of feeding babies, toddlers, and school-age kids. She is the co-author of the award-winning Raising a Healthy Happy Eater: A Stage-by-Stage Guide to Setting Your Child on the Path to Adventurous Eating. The tips in her parent and child cookbook, Adventures in Veggieland: Help Your Kids Learn to Love Vegetables with 100 Easy Activities and Recipes, are based on the latest research and Melanie's 20 years of success as a pediatric feeding therapist. Melanie's children's book You are Not an Otter takes preschoolers on a food adventure, exploring all the ways that various animals eat! Melanie's advice has been shared in a variety of television and print media, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, CNN.com, and Parents Magazine. In this episode, Melanie and I discuss key strategies for families with picky eaters. By working to build skill and ability around food, Melanie helps bring joy back into mealtimes for families struggling with severe picky eaters. Utilizing research-backed practices, Melanie walks parents through identifying whether professional intervention is necessary and the steps to take that yield real results for their family. Often children who suffer from severe eating problems experience heightened anxiety and hesitancy around food that can affect their personal and social development regardless of whether they have a pre-existing developmental disorder. Where to learn more about Melanie Potock … MelaniePotock.com Melanie's Books Free Downloads Instagram Twitter Facebook Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Leslie Josel-Principal, an ADHD-academic and parenting coach and award-winning entrepreneur having founded Order Out of Chaos – a virtual company whose mission is to help parents guide their students to success in learning and in life. Leslie is the creator of the award-winning Academic Planner: A Tool for Time Management®, a planner that helps students develop time management skills, and the award-winning author of 3 books including the recently published, "How to Do it Now Because it's Not Going Away: An Expert Guide to Getting Stuff Done." A respected resource on ADHD and Executive Functioning, Leslie writes the weekly "Dear ADHD Family Coach" column for ADDitude Magazine, the premiere magazine for adults and children with ADHD and LD. She speaks to audiences all over the world helping them utilize their resources to best navigate the task-driven world in which they live. This past October, Leslie's line of student organizing products – a collaboration with organizing products company, Samsill Corp – was released. And for the last four years, Leslie has been named by Global Gurus as one of the top 20 Time Management experts in the world. Where to learn more about Leslie Josel … Order of Chaos Website Leslie's New Book Personal Homework Guide FREE download Instagram Twitter Facebook

My guest this week is Dr. Bonnie Kaplan, a research psychologist and semi-retired Professor at the University of Calgary's Cumming School of Medicine. Dr. Bonnie has published widely on the biological basis of developmental disorders and mental health – particularly, the contribution of nutrition to brain development and brain function. Her efforts to include nutrition knowledge in the care of people with mental health challenges have earned her a variety of awards, including the Dr. Rogers Prize and in 2017 she was selected as one of 150 Canadian Difference Makers in Mental Health.In this episode, Dr. Kaplan and I discuss how to make pill swallowing easier for children and adults. Dr. Kaplan's evidence-based techniques have helped thousands conquer this essential life skill. Many children and adults, especially those dealing with developmental and mental health disorders, struggle daily with pill-swallowing whether it be necessary vitamins, minerals, or vital medications. Dr. Kaplan shares key tips on how to successfully implement her pill-swallowing techniques empowering its users to independently manage this daily task entirely on their own. Dr. Kaplan's new book, 'The Better Brain', co-authored with her former student Dr. Julia Rucklidge, is full of anecdotes, stories, and simplified scientific works to help readers understand the importance of nutrients for brain function. Where to learn more about Dr. Bonnie Kaplan… BonnieJKaplan.com The Better Brain Book Pill Swallowing Instructional Video + Resources British Medical Journal Article Instagram Twitter Facebook Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

This week we are celebrating the 100th episode of the Better Behavior Show! Within this episode, I will cover five key takeaways themes that have stood out to me as overarching lessons learned throughout the course of the show's history. Over the past two years, I've interviewed some of the most incredible leaders in the fields of education, psychology, developmental health, integrative and functional health, mental health, and more. It has been an unforgettable experience and I am so grateful to all of our listeners and guests that have supported us on this journey. Here is to the next 100 episodes! Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Dr. Eli Lebowitz, a professor at the Yale School of Medicine Child Study Center who directs the Program for Anxiety Disorders while studying and treating childhood and adolescent anxiety. Dr. Lebowitz's research focuses on the development, neurobiology, and treatment of anxiety and related disorders, with special emphasis on family dynamics and the role of parents in these disorders. He is the lead investigator on multiple funded research projects and is the author of research papers, books, and chapters on childhood and adolescent anxiety. Dr. Lebowitz's work has been recognized by private and public organizations including the Brain and Behavior Foundation, the National Institute of Mental Health, and The National Center for Advancing Translational Science. He is also the father of three great boys. In this episode, Dr. Lebowitz and I discuss the steps to an effective at-home approach to treat children's anxiety and OCD. By utilizing the scientifically proven program, SPACE, Dr. Lebowitz demonstrates how this parent-focused approach can result in improvement not only for the child suffering from anxiety or OCD but for the entire family unit. Dr. Lebowitz gives parents and caregivers the tools for empowerment and success to help their child overcome anxiety and OCD in his new step-by-step book, 'Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD'. Where to learn more about Dr. Eli Lebowitz... SpaceTreatment.net Breaking Free of Childhood Anxiety and OCD SPACE Provider Directory SPACE Resources Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Dr. John Ratey, an Associate Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and an internationally recognized expert in Neuropsychiatry. Dr. Ratey has published over 60 peer-reviewed articles, and 11 books including the groundbreaking ADD-ADHD "Driven to Distraction" series with Ned Hallowell, MD. With the publication of "Spark-The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain," Dr. Ratey established himself as one of the world's foremost authorities on the brain-fitness connection. His new book, "ADHD 2.0" delves into new science around ADHD and essential strategies for thriving with distraction from childhood through adulthood. Recognized by his peers as one of the "Best Doctors in America", Dr. Ratey has been honored by the Massachusetts Psychiatric Society as "Outstanding Psychiatrist of the Year" for advancing the field. He and his work are frequently profiled in the media, where he's been featured in a wide variety of broadcast and print media.In this episode, Dr. Ratey and I discuss the growing diagnosis of ADHD in children and adults and effective strategies to help them thrive. Backed by research, Dr. Ratey reveals key correlations in the brain's networks and demonstrates how important human connection, daily environment, movement, meditation, and medicine can be to support its attention and focus. Where to learn more about Dr. John Ratey... johnratey.com Dr. Ratey's New Book Facebook Twitter YouTube Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Dr. Danenberg, known as"Dr. Al", a periodontist treating oral health in integrative and innovative ways with over 44 years of private practice experience. Dr. Al has incorporated ancestral nutrition and lifestyle with his leading-edge laser protocol to treat periodontal disease. Since retiring, Dr. Al continues to consult with patients virtually worldwide regarding nutrition, lifestyle, oral and overall health, and the importance of a healthy gut and immune system. Dr. Al is a certified functional medicine practitioner, published author, scientific advisor, and cancer survivor. He was diagnosed with incurable bone marrow cancer in September 2018 and was given only 3-6 months to live. Dr. Al rejected all chemotherapy and is thriving today. Where to learn more about Dr. Al Danenberg... drdanenberg.com Instagram Twitter Facebook The Better Belly Blueprint Is Your Gut Killing You? Free Guide - 4 Steps To A Healthy Mouth Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Dr. Joel "Gator" Warsh, a board-certified Pediatrician in Los Angeles, California who specializes in Integrative Medicine. Dr. Gator grew up in Toronto, Canada, and completed a Master's Degree in Epidemiology and Community Health before earning his medical degree from Thomas Jefferson Medical College. He completed his Pediatric Residency at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles (CHLA) and has worked in private practice in Beverly Hills before founding his current practice, Integrative Pediatrics and Medicine, in 2018. Dr. Gator has published research in peer-reviewed journals on topics including childhood injuries, obesity, and physical activity. He has been featured in numerous documentaries, films, podcasts, and articles including Broken Brain, Dr. Nandi Show, CBS, LA Parent, and many others. He is also the owner of IntegrativePediatrics.com and the host of the Integrative Pediatrics Summit. In this episode, Dr. Gator and I discuss how to choose the right doctor and effectively advocate for your child's specific healthcare needs. Choosing a physician or breaking up with one can be difficult no matter the stage in your child's life, from primary care doctors to integrative medicine specialists, it is important to choose your physician based on your specific need of care and expectations. Specializing in integrative and holistic pediatrics, Dr. Gator encourages parents to do their research and look into and discuss natural medicine alternatives with their physicians before quickly resulting in pharmaceutical medications for every ailment. Dr. Gator shares ways to effectively communicate with your physician and empowers parents to get a second opinion when they feel their concerns are being overlooked and unheard. Where to learn more about Dr. Joel Gator Warsh... IntegrativePediatrics.com Dr. Gator's Instagram Integrative Pediatrics Instagram Facebook Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Dr. Suzanne Bartlett Hackenmiller, an OB-Gyn and Integrative Medicine physician. Dr. Hackenmiller completed OB-Gyn residency at Western Pennsylvania-Temple University in Pittsburgh and is a fellowship graduate of the University of Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine. She is board certified by both the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the American Board of Integrative Medicine. Dr. Hackenmiller holds additional certifications in herbal medicine and is a certified forest therapy guide. She has served as medical director for the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy and currently is medical advisor for AllTrails. She is the award-winning author of "The Outdoor Adventurer's Guide to Forest Bathing" and "A Friend Like John, Understanding Autism." She speaks nationally and internationally about autism, integrative medicine, and nature therapy. To learn more about forest bathing and Dr. Hackenmiller click here. Where to learn more about Dr. Suzanne Bartlett Hackenmiller... IntegrativeInitiative.com Instagram Facebook Twitter Book - The Outdoor Adventurer's Guide To Forest Bathing Book - A Friend Like John Understanding Autism Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally? My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more. Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Membership- a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior. Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

My guest this week is Emily Holl, the Director of The Sibling Support Project, the first national program dedicated to the life-long and ever-changing concerns of millions of brothers and sisters of people with special developmental and health concerns. Emily is a social worker, author, and trainer who has provided workshops and groups for siblings and families, presented extensively on sibling issues, and has conducted and published sibling research. A sibling, and board member of the national Sibling Leadership Network, Emily has written about her experiences in blogs, magazines, and books such as "Thicker than Water" and as co-editor of, "The Sibling Survival Guide: Indispensable Information for Adult Brothers and Sisters of People with Disabilities". Emily earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Massachusetts, a Master of Fine Arts from Columbia University, and a Master of Social Work from Hunter College at the City University of New York. In this episode, Emily and I discuss how to support siblings of children with disabilities. Emily encourages parents to connect with these siblings to create an open, supportive dialogue to help them navigate their experience and discuss their sibling's disabilities with their peers without creating stigmas. Often these siblings seek answers to questions that lead them to false understandings of the realities around their siblings' disability. Can they catch the disability? Did they cause it themselves? Emily helps parents combat these falsehoods and provides them with countless resources to aid in the support of the family as a whole. Where to learn more about Emily Holl ... SiblingSupport.org Instagram Facebook Twitter The Sibling Survival Guide Book Sibling Leadership Network