The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast

How to Use Mindfulness and Self-Compassion for Complexities of ADHD

My guest is Dr. Mark Bertin, an acclaimed developmental-behavioral pediatrician, assistant professor at New York Medical College, and author specializing in ADHD management. We delve into the world of ADHD, breaking down its complexities and how integrating mindfulness can transform the lives of families grappling with it.
Dr. Bertin extensively elaborates on the concept of ADHD as a developmental delay in managing daily life skills such as attention, organization, planning, time management, emotion, and effort. He reaffirms the effectiveness of mindfulness and self-compassion in managing ADHD-related stress and building resilience.
Taking a closer look at mindfulness, we explore how being fully present can help parents and children navigate the hurdles that come with ADHD. With mindfulness, parents can become more patient, responsive, and resilient, improving both their own well-being and their child's behavior.
We consider the complexities of modern life and school pressures, discussing how a mindful parenting approach can significantly enhance family life. Focusing on the importance of balancing our inherent negativity bias with gratitude and mindfulness, Dr. Bertin shares insights on elevating our general happiness amidst our digital age distractions.
As we delve deeper into the trials of parents dealing with ADHD, we examine societal pressures, misunderstandings, and the value of incorporating self-compassion into mindfulness practice. Self-compassion can improve our overall well-being, change our interactions with others, and boost our persistence and patience.
Finally, Dr. Bertin advocates for parents to prioritize their needs, be it through mindfulness practices or daily activities that maintain sanity. Parents need to be patient, resilient, and mindful in navigating the unique challenges imposed by ADHD.
More on Dr. Mark Bertin: https://developmentaldoctor.com/
Dr. Bertin’s Mindfullness Resources: https://developmentaldoctor.com/mindfulness-resources/
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Topics covered in this episode:
What is mindfulness?
What is it about ADHD that makes life for parents more stressful?
How can you be mindful in a fast-moving world?
What are the types of mindful practices?
What is a self-compassion practice?
Dr. Bertin’s words of wisdom for parents?
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Thank you for listening! 
 
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#dyslexic

Loving the Different - A Journey to Self-Acceptance

My guest is Nathan Clarkson, a celebrated actor, best-selling author, and filmmaker who takes us through his remarkable life journey. Nathan, best known for his vivid creativity and a member of the esteemed Clarkson family, grew up facing numerous hurdles that included ADHD, OCD, anxiety, and learning disabilities. His thought-provoking experiences form the basis of the best-selling book "Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and The Mom Who Loved Him," a collaborative effort with his proud mother, Sally Clarkson.
Nathan details his journey from feeling out of place as a youth to a self-assured adult. The discourse underscores the paramount role of parents in providing for physical needs, engaging in meaningful conversations, demonstrating compassion, and showering unconditional love.
Nathan's story serves as a beacon of hope to everyone dealing with mental health and learning challenges. It underscores the possibility of a resilient, fulfilling life filled with self-love, acceptance, and overall wellness.
"Different: The Story of an Outside-the-Box Kid and Mom Who Loved Him" is Nathan and his mother's joint effort to narrate their inspiring tale of perseverance. His story is significant for individuals feeling out of place, indicating hope and strength in unconventional journeys.
Nathan emphasizes his deep sense of spirituality and its pivotal role in his resilience. He credits his belief in a purposeful divine design for his strength, making it his anchor in uncertain times.
Coming into his own as a thriving adult in the creative industry, Nathan delights in his roles as an actor, filmmaker, and writer, bearing testament to his inspiring journey. He concludes the episode with practical tips for parents and educators on appreciating and enhancing the uniqueness of children with ADHD.
Join Nathan to explore the beauty in uniqueness, the strength in accepting one's self, and the power in erasing societal molds to reveal our true selves.
More on Nathan Clarkson: https://www.instagram.com/nathanjclarkson/
Link to his book “Different” on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3PZbK5J
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Topics covered in this episode:
Nathan Clarkson gives us some history on the type of kid he was growing up.
Why did he write the book with his Mom about his journey?
The arc of his life from a child to a young adult?
How does Nate’s spiritual life play a role in his own resiliency?
What Nate is doing now as an adult?
What are Nathan’s words of wisdom for kids and/or parents who feel like out-of-the-box kids?
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Thank you for listening! 
 
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#dyslexic

How our nervous systems effects us with Dr. Lori Desautles

My guest is Dr. Lori Desautels, author and Assistant Professor at Butler University since 2016 where she teaches both undergraduate and graduate programs in the College of Education. Lori was also an Assistant Professor at Marian University in Indianapolis for eight years where she founded the Educational Neuroscience Symposium that has now reached thousands of educators and is in its 15th year. Lori’s passion is engaging her students through the social and relational neurosciences as it applies to education. She does this by integrating the tier one trauma accommodating Applied Educational Neuroscience framework, and its learning principles and practices into her coursework at Butler. Lori is the author of several books such as Connections over Compliance, Eyes are Never Queit, Body and Brain Brilliance coming in 2024, and more.
In this profound episode, we present a comprehensive discussion with Dr. Lori Desautels, unraveling the complexities of behavior management in a changing socio-educational landscape post-COVID-19. We explore where behavior management is more about the adults, highlighting the imperative need for understanding and managing neurodiverse children with traumatic backgrounds. You'll understand the influential role that an adult's nervous system plays, and the paramount importance of adults being emotionally safe and available.
Listen as Lori critically examines the state of our society, the stress it places on our collective nervous systems, and the effects on homes, communities, and schools. Learn the necessity for coherence between families and schools and get unique insights on building a triadic connection between parents, school, and child. The episode narrates experiences of triumphs and challenges as a parent of a neurodiverse child, illuminating the importance of open communication between parents and teachers, and the transformative power of validation.
We offer invaluable advice on writing influential letters to educators and the need for sharing information about your neurodiverse child; while elucidating on the role of Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals in fostering a sense of connection and emotional control. You'll also learn about viewing accommodations through an Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) lens and its significance to the neurodiverse child.
In closing, the discussion highlights the need for parents to be attuned to their nervous systems, the importance of providing a safe emotional space for children, and the value of self-care. This episode delivers a thoughtful conversation on behavior management underpinned by empathy and understanding. Tune in for insights you wouldn't want to miss!
Learn more fromt Dr. Lori Desautels: :https://revelationsineducation.com/
Links to Resources mentioned in this podcast:
IEP goals focused on connection
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Topics covered in this episode:
Overall, how are kids doing in school post-Covid?
What role do phones play in kids' dysregulation?
What do schools value in their students?
What are the symptoms of dysregulation?
How do we create alignment between family and educators?
Creating IEP goals that focus on connection?
Dr. Lori’s words of wisdom for parents raising neurodivergent kids?
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Thank you for listening! 
 
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#dyslexic
#neurodiversity
 
 

Speech Therapy Techniques & Strategies with Chris Wegner - The Speech Dude

My guest is Chris Wegner, the acclaimed 'Speech Dude'. Wegner, a school-based Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) and a nationally renowned presenter helps us unfold the essentials of speech and language therapy and its significance for neurodiverse children.
Drawing from his 20 years of educational experience and his personal journey with ADHD, Chris delves into the diverse communication modes of neurodivergent learners and the role of SLPs. Listen as he underlines the need to provide neurodivergent students with the right tools and support, rather than forcing them into conventional molds.
This enlightening conversation invites the audience to explore the intricacy of sensory experiences common among neurodivergent learners. Learn why sensory regulation is crucial for effective learning and how settings can be modified to create a conducive environment for language development and social interaction. Discover how to strike a balance between sensory support and language learning for a profound understanding of speech and language pathology in aiding neurodivergent children.
Finally, the episode encourages self-advocacy skills in students and embarks on the discussion of the optimal age for children to start advocating for themselves. We advocate for a strengths-based approach and share insights on raising neurodivergent children, emphasizing the need to understand each child's intrinsic goodness. Listen in to foster a better understanding of every child's individual needs without changing their authentic self.
For even more insights, feel free to reach out to Speech Dude on Instagram with the word "bananas" for a treasure trove of helpful resources and support.
Learn more from Chris Wegner aka SpeechDude: https://www.instagram.com/speechdude/
Links to Resources mentioned in this podcast:
Loop Earplugs
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Topics covered in this episode:
The role of SLPs working with neurodivergent kids?
Chris’s journey growing up with ADHD?
provide neurodivergent students with the right tools and support, rather than forcing them into conventional molds.
How sensory therapy supports dysregulation
What are loop ears?
Support for fidgety kids?
When a neurodivergent child should be included in the IEP/504 process?
Chris’s words of wisdom for parents raising neurodivergent kids?
 
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Thank you for listening! 
 
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#dyslexic
#neurodiversity
#spl
#speechdude
 

How Ketogenic Diets Impact ADHD & Mental Health

My guest is Nicole Laurent, LMHC. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who helps people use ketogenic dietary therapy as a treatment for mental illness and neurological issues. She uses a variety of nutritional and functional methods of treatment in her work and provides evidence-based psychotherapy modalities in adult client populations. ​In addition to specialized training in clinical skills, including Behavior Therapy (BT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), she is trained in nutritional and metabolic therapies for mental health.
Through our discussion, Nicole engages listeners about the emerging field of metabolic psychiatry, including the significant role the ketogenic diet plays in improving mitochondrial function. We also delve into the reported advantages of the ketogenic diet for treating diverse neurological disorders and mental health conditions.
Nicole skillfully explains the particulars of utilizing the ketogenic diet as a tool for managing ADHD symptoms. She covers the importance of stabilization of the neural networks and the enhancement of brain energy metabolism, particularly in impulse control and focus areas. However, Nicole also emphasizes that not every child with ADHD may need a ketogenic diet, as there could be simpler ways to manage micronutrient deficiencies.
We venture to explore the underexplored nutritional dimensions of ADHD and mental health and discuss the critical role of essential nutrients in maintaining mental health. We challenge the prevailing psychopharmacology viewpoint and call for an urgent and nuanced understanding of the nutritional component of various mental health issues.
This episode is a valuable resource for every parent wishing to navigate the challenging waters of ADHD management and understand the implications of nutrition on their child's health. It emphasizes the potential benefits of dietary changes and the need to explore beyond stimulant medication.
We also critique the American diet culture and its implications on mental health while offering practical suggestions for making healthier eating choices. 
We conclude the importance of proper nutrition in managing ADHD effectively and underline the vitality of educating oneself to ensure the best for a child's mental health. 
Learn more from Nicole Laurent: https://mentalhealthketo.com/
Links to Resources mentioned in this podcast:
Change Your Diet, Change Your  Mind by Dr. Georgia Ede
Finally Focused by Dr. James Greenblatt & Bill Gottlieb CHC
Sacred Cow by Diana Rodgers and Robb Wolf
Hardy's Nutritionals
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Topics covered in this episode:
What is metabolic psychiatry?
What is nutritional psychiatry?
What is a ketogenic diet?
Options to consider when the standard practice of care isn’t working?
How a standard American diet is working against mental health?
Nicole’s words of wisdom for parents raising ADHD kids?
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Thank you for listening! 
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#keto

Top 5 insights from a Mom parenting kids with ADHD

My guest is Kirah Johnson. A loving mom to four kids and as a teacher, Kirah shares her comprehensive insights on raising children with ADHD which she has openly documented on her Instagram page, We Have to Go Through It.
She dives into her top five pieces of advice for parents raising children with ADHD. From building your team, implementing visuals, and maintaining routines, to embracing the wonderful chaos these children bring and nurturing their creativity, Kirah emphasizes the importance of tailoring parenting styles to the unique needs of each child.
This gripping conversation includes essential tips for fostering a positive and accommodating environment at home, instead of fighting off their high energy and perfect creativity, providing an outlet for all the enthusiasm these kids bring.
You'll love hearing Kirah's personal experiences and practical wisdom on handling the challenges and appreciating these children's unique strengths. Her number-one piece of advice: parent the child you have. Discover why she believes every child is wonderful, and why you are the best parent out there for them. Don't miss this enlightening episode.
Learn more from Kirah Johnson:https://www.instagram.com/wehavetogothroughit/
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Topics covered in this episode:
Countdown Kirah’s top five insights on parenting children with ADHD
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#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#dyslexic
#neurodiversity
#momadvice

The Intricate Relationship Between Trauma and ADHD

My guest is Amy Pagett, a trauma-informed coach, and an elementary school teacher. As a trauma survivor who suspected she had ADHD in adulthood, Amy shares her unique perspective on the intricate relationship between trauma and ADHD, the mirror-like symptoms between both conditions and her journey of overcoming the confusing overlap.
We analyze the high susceptibility of those with ADHD to develop PTSD post-traumatic events and emphasize the crucial need for awareness, understanding, and support for such individuals. Further, we reveal Amy's invaluable insights on her role as a trauma coach, her divergent approach from regular therapists, and the power of adopting client-centered methodologies for managing trauma in the present.
Amy expounds on the practice of breathwork for self-regulation and as a tool for centering oneself in the body, exemplifying its practical usage with her students. She emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion in dealing with those affected by trauma and ADHD, underlining their role in enhancing the healing process.
Learn more from Amy Pagett: https://www.aimtruecoaching.com/
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Topics covered in this episode:
Amy’s journey as a trauma survivor who suspected she had ADHD in adulthood.
What is a trauma-informed coach and how can it help a person
Amy expounds on the practice of breathwork for self-regulation 
High susceptibility of those with ADHD to develop PTSD post-traumatic events
Teacher advice on shared regulation strategies in the classroom?
Parents co-regulating and self-regulating guidance
Amy’s words of wisdom for parents raising ADHD kids.
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Thank you for listening! 
 
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#dyslexic
#neurodiversity
#trauma
 
 

Navigating IEP and 504 Plans for Your ADHD Child

My guest is April Rehrig, M.Ed., BCEA, LEP, PPS, CASDCS, seasoned school psychologist and founder of RISE Educational Advocacy and Consulting. In this episode, we explore the intricate world of Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and 504 plans for children with ADHD.  It's a treasure trove of insights and advice for parents and caregivers of students who are experiencing academic difficulties. Touching every spectrum of the topic, we aim to empower you with the knowledge and resources necessary to ensure your child's academic success.
Learn more from April Rehrig at https://www.riseeducationaladvocacy.com/
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Topics covered in this episode:
What is the difference between a 504 plan and an IEP?
Is a 504 plan or IEP better than the other?
How parents can navigate informal suspensions?
What to do when an ADHD child is struggling but is getting good grades?
What do do when an ADHD child is failing in school and the school isn’t taking action?
Does the “wait and see” approach work?
April's words of wisdom for parents navigating the world of IEPs and 504 plans?
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Thank you for listening! 
 
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#dyslexic
#neurodiversity
#IEP
#504
 

The Vital Role of Parents and Families for an ADHD child

My guest is Kayvon Afsarifard , a clinical team leader at TeamWonder.org.  This insightful discussion dives into how ADHD affects not only the individual but the whole family system, emphasizing the crucial role parents and families play when a child is dealing with ADHD. Kayvon shares effective strategies on how parents can keep their child focused and organized, discussing developmental stages and ADHD symptoms. He urges parents to adjust their parenting techniques as their children grow and highlights the importance of teaching them self-reliance and independent decision-making skills.
TeamWonder.org offers programs that include a continuum of youth and parent coaching combined with family therapy that is customized to families' needs. We work with a wide spectrum of behavioral and emotional challenges, including struggles with anxiety, depression, failure to launch, school refusal, learning and social differences, ADHD, ASD, executive function challenges, self-harm, suicidality, gender identity, and adoption. We support relationship healing in wounded families and help teens and young adults reach goals in school, vocation, personal growth, and community engagement.
Learn more at https://www.teamwonder.org/
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Topics covered in this episode:
How parents and family system is impacted when a child has ADHD?
Importance of staying regulated with a child is dysregulated?
The independence vs. interdependence dichotomy battle parents face?
Communication tools parents can use?
Video gaming effects on ADHD kids?
Advice on interventions families can implement at home?
Words of wisdom for parents who are raising neurodiverse kids.
 
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Thank you for listening! 
 
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#dyslexic
#neurodiversity
 
 
 

“Learning Outside The Lines” with Jonathan Mooney

My guest is Jonathan Mooney - acclaimed author, passionate advocate, and an example of triumph over adversity. Living with ADHD and dyslexia, Jonathan’s inspiring journey from a struggling student to a successful author and speaker is brilliantly chronicled in our heart-to-heart conversation.
Jonathan Mooney is a dyslexic writer, speaker, and do-gooder who did not learn to read until 12 years old.  He faced a number of low expectations growing up—was told he would flip burgers, be a high school drop out and end up in jail. Needless to say those hopeful prophecies didn’t come to pass. Opposed to being a high school drop out he became a college graduate from Brown University with an honors degree in English lit; instead of flipping burgers he ended up writing books titled Learning Outside The Lines, The Short Bus: A Journey Beyond Normal, and Normal Sucks.   And instead of becoming an inmate he became an advocate creating organizations and initiatives that help people who get the short end of the stick.
Learn more about Jonathon Mooney: https://www.jonathanmooney.com/
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Topics covered in this episode:
What type of kid was Jonathan Mooney growing up?
How did he get through school in what felt impossible with ADHD and dyslexia?
The strategies that worked for him getting through school?
How he advocates as an adult for neurodiverse kids?
How the dynamic nature of the current educational system effects kids?
His words of wisdom for parents who are raising neurodiverse kids.
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Thank you for listening! 
 
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#dyslexic
#jonathanmooney
#neurodiversity
#normalsucks