The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast

Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters--------------------------------------------------------------------
In this episode of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive, the host Kate Brownfield sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Matthew Zakreski, an expert in neurodivergence, to discuss ADHD, autism, and how the education system impacts children with different learning needs.
Dr. Zakreski, author of The Neurodiversity Playbook, Sheds light into the neuroscience of ADHD, the impact of reduced recess and unstructured time in schools, and strategies to help children thrive. He explains why traditional school environments can fail neurodiverse kids and how parents can advocate for better support.
Whether you're raising a child with ADHD, autism, or other neurodivergent traits, this episode will give you practical strategies and a fresh perspective on how to support their growth.
 
📚 Expect to Learn
✅ The neuroscience behind ADHD and why it’s often misdiagnosed.✅ How reduced recess, art, and unstructured play are harming children’s development.✅ Why executive functioning challenges are common across neurodivergent diagnoses.✅ Strategies to help neurodiverse kids navigate a world built for neurotypicals.✅ How parents can advocate for their child’s learning needs and find supportive environments.
 
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:02:20] – Meet Dr. Matthew Zakreski                                                                                [00:03:04] – The Science of Neurodiversity                                                                            [00:07:24] – Diagnosis the ADHD Correctly & it’s Labels                                                       [00:9:38] – Understanding the “Code”                                                                                   [00:16:30] – The Impact of No Child Left Behind                                                                    [00:22:31] – Environmental Impact on ADHD & Autism                                                      [00:25:15] – Advocating for Your Child’s Education                                                              [00:28:47] – Final Advice for Parents                                                                                      [00:31:35] – Conclusion
 
Connect with Dr. Matthew Zakreski:
👉 Website: https://www.drmattzakreski.com/ 
📖 His book “The Neurodiversity Playbook”  Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Neurodiversity-Playbook-Neurodivergent-People-Neurotypical/dp/195336036X  
 
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👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
 
 
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Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters-----------------------------------------------------------------------
In this episode, Kate Brownfield from The ADHD Kids Can Thrive interviews Julie Abrams, an occupational therapist (OT) specializing in neurodiverse children and an ADHD parent coach based in Colorado. Julie brings her expertise in sensory systems to shed light on how sensory challenges manifest in children with ADHD and autism, offering parents actionable strategies to support their kids' development.
Julie Abrams discusses the foundational role of a child's sensory system in everyday activities like being a student, a friend, and just being a child. She breaks down the tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems, explains how sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding behaviors present, and provides practical tips for creating sensory-friendly routines at home. Whether you're navigating a recent diagnosis or just curious about supporting your child's sensory needs, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
Julie Abrams is an occupational therapist for neurodiverse children and an ADHD parent coach with over 20 years of experience. Based in Colorado, Julie specializes in helping families understand and manage sensory processing challenges in children with ADHD and autism. Her work focuses on improving fine and gross motor skills, attention, and social engagement, empowering both children and their parents to thrive.
 
📚 Expect to Learn
✔ The role of occupational therapy (OT) in supporting children with ADHD and autism.
✔ How sensory systems—tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive—impact a child’s daily life.
✔ Signs that your child may have sensory processing challenges and when to seek professional help.
✔ Practical strategies for managing sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding behaviors at home.
✔ How to build a "sensory diet" to support your child's regulation and focus throughout the day.
 
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
📌[00:01:42] – Introduction to Julie Abrams                                                                        📌[00:02:24] – What is Occupational Therapy (OT) and how it helps ADHD kids            📌[00:05:22] – Understanding the sensory system                                                              📌[00:08:16] – sensory challenges with ADHD  kids and autism.                                         📌[00:09:26] – Teaching parents to understand and support their child’s sensory needs. 
 📌[00:9:50] – The impact of sensory misperceptions on learning and behavior.
📌[00:14:34] – Can sensory systems be strengthened over time?
📌[00:19:47] – Building a sensory diet
📌[00:24:34] – When to seek professional OT support and what to expect in therapy
📌[00:27:07] – The importance of seasonal adjustments in sensory routines
📌[00:29:43] – Advocating for movement and sensory breaks in school settings.
📌[00:31:30] – Final advice for parents raising neurodiverse children
 
Connect with our Guest Julie Abrams:👉 Website:https://www.julieabramsot.com/
 
Follow the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
 

Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters-------------------------------------------------------------------------
In this episode, host Kate Brownfield welcomes Dr. Sarah Cheyette, a pediatric neurologist specializing in ADHD. They explore ADHD diagnosis, treatment strategies, emotional regulation, and the impact of screen time on focus. Dr. Cheyette also introduces her upcoming book, the first ADHD guide published by the American Academy of Neurology, set for release in late summer 2025. If you're a parent, caregiver, or someone navigating ADHD, this episode is packed with practical awareness to help you or your child thrive.
Dr. Sarah Cheyette is a pediatric neurologist based in the San Francisco Bay Area, specializing in ADHD and brain health. She has dedicated her career to helping children and adults understand and manage ADHD. Her upcoming book, published by the American Academy of Neurology, will provide a comprehensive guide to living with ADHD.
📚 Expect to Learn
✔ What ADHD really is—understanding focus, distraction, and brain function.✔ How to properly diagnose ADHD—who to go to and what tests may be needed.✔ The role of emotional regulation and why it’s critical in ADHD management.✔ The impact of screen time on focus and how to create a healthy balance.✔ Actionable strategies to help children and adults with ADHD thrive.
 
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
📌 [00:01:33] - Introduction to Dr. Sarah Cheyette📌 [00:02:41] - Dr. Cheyette’s upcoming book on ADHD📌 [00:04:14] - Common misconceptions about ADHD in the medical community📌 [00:07:29] - How ADHD is diagnosed and where to seek help📌 [00:08:57] - Defining ADHD and understanding focus vs. distraction📌 [00:11:33] - Recognizing ADHD symptoms in children📌 [00:13:12] - The impact of screen time on ADHD and brain function📌 [00:15:16] - The rise in ADHD and autism diagnoses—environmental and diagnostic factors📌 [00:18:01] - Dr Sarah’s Book Comprehension                                            📌 [00:19:26] - Emotional dysregulation and its role in ADHD📌 [00:21:26] - Final thoughtsConnect with our Guest Dr. Sarah Cheyette:
👉 LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcheyettemd/                  🌍Website:  https://sarahcheyette.com/
Follow Host Kate Brownfield at the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
 
🔗 Follow ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast now and share your thoughts in the comments below!
 

Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters-----------------------------------------------------------------------
In this episode, host Kate Brownfield sits down with Dr. Christie Rogers-Larke, founder and clinical director of Outside of the Box Therapy in South Carolina. Dr. Christie shares her journey growing up with ADHD, her observations as a therapist, and the inspiration behind her children's book, The ADHD Porcupine and the Bunny.
Diagnosed with ADHD in college, Dr. Christie uses her personal experiences and professional expertise to support neurodiverse children and their families. Through practical advice, real-life examples, and the heart-touching story of her book, she emphasizes the importance of understanding, compassion, and recognizing the unique strengths of individuals with ADHD.
This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and caregivers looking to support neurodiverse children better and help them thrive in their own way.
 
📚 Expect to Learn
How to reframe oppositional behavior as a form of communication.
Strategies for navigating emotional regulation and motivating neurodiverse children.
The importance of focusing on a child's strengths rather than their challenges.
How to build flexibility and structure in parenting without losing balance.
Insights from The ADHD Porcupine and the Bunny and its approach to resilience.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:03:25] - Dr. Christie’s ADHD Journey[00:06:57] - The Inspiration Behind the Book[00:08:46] - Parenting Strategies [00:10:46] - The Bunny’s Role in the Story: [00:13:06] - Understanding Oppositional Behaviors[00:15:05] - Social Media & ADHD Awareness[00:17:35] - Final Words of Wisdom[00:20:32] - Conclusion
Connect with our Guest Dr. Christie Rogers- Larke👉 Visit her website: https://www.outsideoftheboxtherapy.com/ 👉 Her Book, “The ADHD Porcupine and the Bunny”, is available on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0DFTZ6BWP
 
Follow Host Kate Brownfield at the ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: http://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Adhdkidscanthrive
 
🔗 Follow ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast now and share your thoughts in the comments below!

Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters-------------------------------------------------
In this heartfelt episode, host Kate Brownfield speaks with Tony Bellezza and Cassi Bellezza, the founders of the nonprofit Anthony's Way-The Road to Kindness. The foundation was born out of their personal experiences raising a child with ADHD and is dedicated to providing comprehensive, hands-on support for children with ADHD and their families. This episode explores their journey, the struggles faced by ADHD families, and the vision behind their impactful organization.Tony and Cassi are parents, advocates, and the founders of Anthony's Way, a nonprofit organization committed to helping children with ADHD find their passions and thrive. Drawing from their late son Anthony's inspiring legacy of kindness and resilience, they have developed a roadmap to offer hands-on support for ADHD families. Their mission is to provide resources and a community where every child can grow with confidence and kindness.
📚 Expect to Learn
How Tony and Cassi transformed their personal tragedy into a mission to help ADHD families.
The components of a comprehensive care program for children with ADHD.
Practical advice for parents navigating the challenges of ADHD.
The importance of addressing self-esteem in ADHD children early.
How Anthony's Way is reshaping ADHD support through kindness and innovation.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:00:00] - Opening Remarks[00:02:45] - The Journey Begins[00:06:32] - Early Challenges with ADHD[00:10:25] - Transformative Moments[00:16:17] - A Legacy of Kindness[00:22:48] - Building Anthony's Way[00:27:00] - The Vision for Change[00:30:55] - Kindness in Action[00:34:32] - Words of Wisdom[00:35:50] - Conclusion
Connect with our Guests Tony and Cassi on:
👉 Website:  https://www.roadtokindness.live/Check out more information on their February 13th live donation event and the Walk for Kindness initiative.
 
Follow Kate Brownfield at ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: https://www.adhdkidscanthrive.com/
🔗 Subscribe now and share your thoughts in the comments below!
 

Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters-------------------------------------------------
In this compelling episode of ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, host Kate Brownfield speaks with Emma Tekstra, a global health consultant, actuary, and author of How to Be a Healthy Human. Emma shares her inspiring journey of advocating for her son's health after he was diagnosed with Asperger’s and ADHD alongside other health challenges. This episode dives into Emma’s practical strategies for improving children’s health and offers hope to parents navigating similar challenges.
Emma Tekstra is an actuary turned global health consultant and author. Her passion for health advocacy began 15 years ago when her son was diagnosed with Asperger’s and ADHD. Armed with her scientific background, Emma pursued alternative approaches to improve her son’s overall health, leading to transformative outcomes. She now champions parental empowerment and proactive health strategies for children and families.
📚 Expect to Learn
The pivotal role of nutrition and gut health in managing ADHD and Asperger’s symptoms.
Practical strategies for parents to advocate for their child’s health with pediatricians and specialists.
The impact of occupational therapy, neurofeedback, and sensory interventions in holistic health plans.
Insights on managing screen time and technology use among neurodiverse children.
How Emma’s experience influenced her two books and her work in global health advocacy.
⏳ Episode Breakdown with Timestamps ⏳
[00:00:00] - The Gut-Brain Connection[00:00:54] - Podcast Introduction[00:02:35] - A Life-Changing Diagnosis[00:05:00] - Connecting the Dots[00:06:35] - Partnering with Pediatricians[00:08:30] - Results from Dietary Changes[00:14:00] - Addressing Mood and Sensitivities[00:16:00] - Therapies and Interventions[00:21:30] - Managing Technology Use[00:26:45] - Teenage Rebellion and Returning to Health[00:28:30] - Writing to Empower Others[00:30:45] - Advice for Parent
 
Connect with our Guest Emma Tekstra on:
👉 Website: https://emmatekstra.com/👉 Her Book "How to Be a Healthy Human" - https://emmatekstra.com/books/
 
Follow Kate Brownfield at ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast on:
👉 Join Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
👉 Website: https://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
 
🔗 Follow the show now and share your thoughts in the comments below!

What happens when the future you imagined for your child with ADHD is not the future they actually need?
In this episode of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, Kate Brownfield, ACC, talks with writer and longtime ADHD parent advocate Jennifer Gay Summers about raising a neurodivergent child from early childhood into young adulthood. Jennifer shares what she learned as she moved from denial and uncertainty to education, advocacy, acceptance, and a deeper understanding of her child. They discuss ADHD, sensory processing challenges, anxiety, learning disabilities, IEP advocacy, letting go of traditional parenting expectations, nurturing a child’s strengths, and why teaching self-advocacy can become one of the most important skills a parent helps develop.
You’ll learn:• Why understanding ADHD can change how parents interpret behavior• How parents can become stronger advocates at school and in IEP meetings• Why letting go of traditional expectations can help neurodivergent children thrive• How strengths and interests can build confidence when school is difficult• Why children with ADHD need opportunities to practice self-advocacy• What Jennifer wishes she had understood earlier in her parenting journey
Guest: Jennifer Gay Summershttps://jennifergaysummers.com
Free ADHD Parent Resource:The ADHD Parent Reset: 7 Things to Do Differently When What You’re Trying Isn’t Workinghttps://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/IUVgRZz
ADHD Parent Coaching with Kate Brownfield, ACC:https://adhdkidscanthrive.com

Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/On1ABRH/first3chapters---------------------------------------------------------------------
My guest is Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown, a triple-board-certified sleep medicine physician. Dr. Brown obtained sleep medicine training at the University of Pennsylvania and was a faculty member at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia until recently. Join us for an enlightening conversation about the importance of sleep for children with ADHD. Dr. Brown shares her expertise on how prioritizing sleep can help children and adults thrive, achieve optimal health, and reach their fullest potential.
In this episode, Kate and Dr. Brown delve into the common sleep challenges faced by children with ADHD and explore strategies to improve sleep quality. Dr. Brown explains the complex relationship between ADHD and sleep and how behavioral, medical, and 24-hour factors play a role in sleep struggles. The discussion also highlights the impact of a child's sleep issues on family dynamics and the importance of addressing these challenges early on.
Dr. Brown offers practical advice on maintaining healthy sleep habits, such as establishing consistent routines, managing screen time, and improving nutrition. She also emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help when necessary and guides parents on supporting their children's sleep journey while caring for their own well-being.
Tune in to discover valuable insights and actionable tips to help your ADHD child—and your family—sleep better and live healthier lives.
Learn more: https://www.therestfulsleepplace.com/
👉 Join Kate's Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
Stay connected to Kate at ADHDKidsCanThrive.com: http://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
Sign up to get the first 3 chapters of Kate's Book here: Link to read
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#autism
#neurodiverse
#ADHDchild
 

What happens when a bright child with ADHD can do the work—but struggles more as life requires greater independence?
In this episode of The ADHD Kids Can Thrive Podcast, Kate Brownfield, ACC, talks with Colin Guare, behavioral analyst, writer, adult with ADHD, and co-author of Smart But Scattered, Second Edition, Smart But Scattered Teens, and Smart But Scattered and Stalled.
Colin shares his own ADHD story, including doing well academically when structure was built around him, struggling significantly when he reached college and had to manage that structure himself, and eventually finding his own path working with children, families, schools, and executive-function challenges.
Together, Kate and Colin explore what executive-function support can look like at home—and why helping a child build skills often requires more than telling them what to do.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why some bright ADHD kids struggle more as expectations for independence increase• How executive-function challenges affect planning, organization, task initiation, time management, and follow-through• Why parents may need to change the environment and practice skills rather than repeatedly explain what a child should be doing• How to scaffold support and gradually fade it as skills develop• Why screens and technology can be especially difficult for kids who struggle with self-regulation• How technology can also support executive functioning through calendars, timers, reminders, and other tools• Why simply taking technology away may not work unless something meaningful replaces that time• How involving kids in conversations about screen limits can create greater buy-in• What motivational interviewing can teach parents about talking with children who resist change• Why trying to convince, lecture, or immediately fix a child’s distress can sometimes create more resistance• How giving kids room to develop their own reasons for change may reduce unnecessary battles
One of the most reassuring parts of this conversation is Colin’s perspective as someone who grew up with ADHD himself. His path was not linear. College did not initially go as planned. His direction changed several times. Yet over time, he found work that mattered to him and built a life around his strengths.
His message to parents: life is long.
Your child does not need to have everything figured out at 12, 18, or even 22. Development continues, executive skills can grow, and young people have time to find a path that fits who they are.
Learn more about ADHD parent coaching and resources:https://adhdkidscanthrive.com
Get the free ADHD Parent Reset:https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/IUVgRZz
 

Learn kind and practical tips to support your ADHD child by downloading the First 3 Chapters of the book for FREE here: https://bit.ly/first_3_chapters--------------------------------------------------------------------
My guest is Dr. Angela Low, an adjunct professor at the University of British Columbia, a research associate at Simon Fraser University’s CHART lab, and consulting on several child and youth mental health projects with government and community organizations locally and globally. Dr. Low discusses the pervasive feelings of shame in parenthood, especially for those raising children with ADHD. She explains how shame can lead to anger, defensiveness, and disconnection and shares insights on building resilience to overcome these emotions.
Dr. Low delves into the psychology of shame, comparing it with guilt, and offers practical strategies for parents to manage and heal from shame. She emphasizes the importance of community and connection in mitigating shame and highlights the evolutionary role of these emotions in parenting. Through her research, she reveals how shame can hinder learning and growth and offers guidance on fostering self-compassion and forgiveness to navigate the parenting journey.
Join Kate and Dr. Low as they explore the complexities of shame in parenthood and provide valuable advice for parents striving to connect more deeply with their children and themselves.
Learn more: https://www.understandparentshame.com/
👉 Join Kate's Parent Support Group: Sign up for details here
Stay connected to Kate at ADHDKidsCanThrive.com: http://adhdkidscanthrive.com/
#adhd
#adhdkid
#adhdparent
#adhdkidscanthrive
#adhdparentsupport
#adhdsupport 
#specialed
#parenting
#ADHDkidhealth
#brainhealth
#anxiety
#depression
#learningdisabilities
#dyslexia
#executivefunctioning
#autism
#neurodiverse
#ADHDchild