Creativity coach, speaker, and author Kathryn Haydon talks about the benefits of bringing more creativity into our parenting lives raising differently wired kids. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Happy New Year, and welcome to the podcast's winter season! I have some really special conversations to share with you this year, and I?m thrilled to kick things off with what I can only describe as an absolutely fascinating conversation with Dr. Amy Laurent about ENERGY?specifically, the power and freedom in shifting the focus from emotional regulation to energy regulation when supporting neurodivergent individuals, including ourselves. You might remember Amy from her last appearance on the show with Dr. Jacquelyn Fede, where they shared about their autistic-allistic partnership Autism Level UP!?a collaboration dedicated to providing education, accessible resources, and practical strategies to increase active engagement for autistic individuals and their communities. If you haven?t heard that one yet, it?s a great listen! You can find it at tiltparenting.com/session328 or through the link in the show notes for this episode. In this conversation, we dive into Amy and Jacquelyn?s latest resource, Energy: The Framework, Tools, Strategies & Logic to Support Regulation manual, a comprehensive guide to the Autism Level UP! tools and their innovative approach to energy regulation. Designed with autistic and neurodivergent people in mind?but perfectly suitable for all neurotypes?this manual introduces ways to understand and support energy levels for yourself or others through tools, worksheets, and practical strategies. I LOVE this resource, so it was a real treat to explore its concepts with Amy. In our chat, Amy shares why energy regulation is often a more accessible and relatable framework than emotional regulation for many autistic people, how the ?Energy Meter? helps individuals identify their energy states and foster self-awareness, and how parents can better co-regulate and connect without judgment by recognizing and reflecting on energy states. We talk a lot on the show about becoming fluent in your child, and what we?re covering today takes that concept to an entirely new level.   About Dr. Amy Laurent Amy Laurent, PhD, OTR/L is the co-director of Autism Level UP! an autistic / allistic partnership dedicated to the provision of education, accessible resources, and practical strategies focused on increasing active engagement for autistic individuals and the members of their communities. She is a co-author of the SCERTS Model and frequently lectures internationally. She is passionate about neurodiversity and helping others to honor and understand the implications of ?different ways of being? in relation to navigating the physical and social world. Dr. Laurent strives to practice what she preaches and uses her love of play and movement to meet her own regulatory needs.   Things you'll learn from this episode Why energy regulation is a more accessible and relatable framework than emotional regulation for many autistic people How the ?Energy Meter? helps individuals in identifying their energy levels and needs fostering self-awareness and practical strategies for balance. How parents can better co-regulate, connect, and support (without judgment) through recognizing and reflecting on energy states Why it?s critical that we tailor tools to meet unique needs of our children (ie: there is no one size fits all)   Resources mentioned Energy: The Framework, Tools, Strategies & Logic to Support Regulation by Dr. Amy Laurent and Jac Fede Autism Level UP! Autism Level UP! on Facebook Autism Level UP! on Instagram Autism Level UP! Co-founders Amy Laurent & Jacquelyn Fede on Learning From Autistic Self-Advocates (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Stuart Shanker, author of Self-Reg, shares his expertise on self-regulation, offering practical strategies and compassionate insights to help neurodivergent kids and their families manage stress and build self-awareness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jonathan Mooney, author and advocate, explores the neurodiversity movement, scaling advocacy, Universal Design in education, and intergenerational trauma, offering thought-provoking insights and inspiring reflections. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Phyllis L. Fagell, LCPC, shares actionable insights on fostering identity development, belonging, and resilience in children, with a focus on navigating social challenges, promoting inclusivity, and supporting neurodivergent and marginalized kids. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Academic, teacher, and writer Victoria Biggs shares her experience growing up as an autistic, dyspraxic child and explains how parents can support their similarly wired children Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We live in a society where success is often defined by external markers like prestigious jobs, academic achievements, or traditional milestones. But as parents of neurodivergent kids, we know our children?s paths and timelines often look different. And while their journeys may not align with conventional notions of success, that doesn?t mean they?re any less meaningful or valuable. So, how can we redefine what success means?for our kids and for our families? That?s one of the big questions I explore with today?s guest, child psychologist Dr. Emily King. In our conversation, Dr. Emily and I dive into redefining success for neurodivergent students, emphasizing the importance of joy, self-discovery, and effectiveness in their learning journeys. We explore how cultural definitions of success can be limiting, what?s happening in American public schools regarding neurodivergence, and the actionable steps we can take to help shift the paradigm. Most importantly, we talk about how to reframe ?success? in our families in ways that empower our children to build autonomous, self-actualized lives on their terms.   About Dr. Emily King Dr. Emily King is a Child Psychologist and former School Psychologist who has worked with neurodivergent children and teens for over 20 years. She received a Ph.D. in School Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she worked at Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute and the Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities. She spent five years as a School Psychologist in Houston, Texas specializing in providing school-based mental health services in K-12 public schools. Dr. Emily now works in private practice in North Carolina supporting the mental health needs of neurodivergent youth, their families, and their teachers. Dr. Emily hosts the Learn with Dr. Emily Substack where you can find her blogs and monthly parent workshops. She is also the creator of The Neurodiverse Classroom, a professional development curriculum for elementary and middle school educators. Dr. Emily has been featured on MSNBC?s Morning Joe, quoted in The New York Times and The Washington Post, and has written for Parents.com. You can learn more with Dr. Emily by listening to her podcast or following her on Substack.   Things you'll learn from this episode Why the 2 key ingredients for success for neurodivergent students are joy coupled with effectiveness How cultural definitions of success can be limiting for neurodivergent kids, and what we can do about it What is the state of neurodivergence understanding in American public schools and what we can all do to shift the paradigm forward How we can redefine ?success? in our families and for our children in ways that empower them to create autonomous, self-actualized adult lives   Resources mentioned Dr. Emily King?s website Learn with Dr. Emily (Emily?s Substack) Learn with Dr. Emily Podcast Dr. Mona Delahooke?s website Brain-Body Parenting: How to Stop Managing Behavior and Start Raising Joyful, Resilient Kids by Dr. Mona Delahooke Beyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children?s Behavioral Challenges by Dr. Mona Delahooke Dr. Mona Delahooke on the Power of Brain-Body Parenting (Tilt Parenting podcast) Dr. Mona Delahooke on Looking Beyond Kids Challenging Behaviors (Tilt Parenting podcast) Dr. Dan Siegel & the Window of Tolerance Stephen Porgess & Polyvagal Theory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is a deep dive into pathological demand avoidance in children (also known as PDA), which is typically defined as a pervasive developmental disorder that falls under the autism spectrum. It?s a label that?s frequently used in the United Kingdom, and it?s often defined as a complicated and misunderstood condition wherein some people have a heightened anxiety response to demands being placed on them. PDA isn?t universally recognized as a diagnosis, and it?s also a label rooted in controversy. To talk with us about all of this is friend of the podcast Dr. Melissa Neff, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the assessment of ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, nonverbal learning disorder, and autism spectrum disorders, about the diagnostic process. Melissa Neff, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Missoula, MT. She conducts psychological evaluations for children and adults. She specializes in the assessment of giftedness, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma, nonverbal learning disorder, and typical and atypical presentations of autism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We?ve touched on the theory of self-determination on the show before, but today, I?m thrilled to dedicate an entire episode to this important topic. Joining me for this deeper dive is Dr. Gina Riley, an expert in self-determination theory and motivation. This conversation will resonate with so many of you because it beautifully ties into themes we often explore here, like low-demand parenting and fostering our kids? natural passions and strengths. In this episode, Gina explains the theory of self-determination and dives into the science behind why it?s so impactful, particularly for neurodivergent kids. We explore how it connects with autonomy-supportive parenting and discuss the three tenets of cognitive evaluation theory, which examines what fosters intrinsic motivation. We also tackle the hot topic of whether extrinsic motivators like stickers and rewards have a place and how to genuinely connect with our kids' interests?even when they differ from our own.   About Dr. Gina Riley Gina Riley, Ph.D., is an educational psychologist, Program Director, and Clinical Professor of Adolescent Special Education at CUNY ? Hunter College. She has conducted significant research on homeschooling and unschooling, an educational method and philosophy that advocates student intrinsic motivation as a primary means for learning. In addition to her research on self-directed learning environments, Dr. Riley has expertise in Supported Decision Making, an alternative to guardianship for students with disabilities. She is a faculty advisor for Supported Decision Making New York, promoting autonomy and self-determination for individuals with disabilities.  Dr.Riley also has extensive experience in online, hybrid, and HyFlex education, having been actively involved in the field since 1998. Her contributions to educational psychology and alternative education models have been influential in shaping contemporary discussions on personalized and flexible learning approaches. Dr. Riley is the author of numerous academic articles and three books, including Unschooling:Exploring Learning Beyond the Classroom (Palgrave, 2020), The Homeschooling Starter Guide (Simon & Schuster, 2021), and The Joys of Self Determined Learning: A Collection of Essays (Ricci Publishing, 2022). She is the current President-Elect of the New York State Association of Teacher Educators.   Things you'll learn from this episode What self-determination theory is, and how it?s connected to intrinsic motivation Why a sense of competence, autonomy, and relatedness, as outlined in the cognitive evaluation theory, are crucial for motivation Why it matters that parents focus on facilitating autonomy and decision-making in their children What the science says about how and why intrinsic motivation leads to better academic and social outcomes in adulthood How intrinsic and extrinsic motivations can coexist and why it?s important that they?re balanced   Resources mentioned Dr. Gina Riley?s website Gina on Instagram Gina on Twitter Unschooling: Exploring Learning Beyond the Classroom by Dr. Gina Riley The Homeschooling Starter Guide: How to Create and Adapt the Best Education Action Plan for Your Needs by Dr. Gina Riley NYS Decision Making Curriculum (free decision making curriculum for schools and homeschools I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults, Autism Parents, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn and Jules Edwards Meghan Ashburn and Jules Edwards on Autistic Adults, Autism Parents, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World (Tilt Parenting podcast) Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Dan Pink The intrinsic motivation of Richard Ryan and Edward Deci The Self-Driven Child, with William Stixrud and Ned Johnson (Tilt Parenting podcast) The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives by Dr. William Stixrud and Ned Johnson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sherri Cawn, a leading practitioner of the DIR/Floortime® model in speech and language development, explores characteristics, assessment, intervention of communication disorders in children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I know that parenting kids who are struggling with mental health challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming, as though we?re not equipped to handle what?s happening. When our kids are going through tough mental health moments, it can be isolating, scary, and exhausting. That?s why I?m so grateful for the work of my guest today, Dr. Christine Crawford, the associate medical director for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the nation?s largest grassroots mental health organization. Dr. Crawford is the author of the new book, You Are Not Alone for Parents and Caregivers: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Your Child?s Mental Health?With Advice from Experts and Wisdom from Real Families. It?s an incredibly helpful handbook for any parent navigating this challenging path. The book covers everything from how to talk to our kids about their mental health, to what to do if a long-awaited therapist doesn?t turn out to be the right fit. It also delves into practical and emotional concerns, such as recognizing signs of depression, understanding our critical role as parents in the mental health team, and learning about concepts like the ?distress radius? to better gauge the impact of mental health issues. Finally, a quick content warning: this episode includes discussions of suicidal ideation and other sensitive mental health topics. If these are difficult subjects for you, please prioritize your well-being while listening.   About Dr. Christine Crawford Christine M. Crawford, MD, MPH is the associate medical director for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) which is the country?s largest grassroots mental health organization. She is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Vice Chair of Education at the Boston University School of Medicine. She also provides outpatient psychiatric care to children and adolescents at Boston Medical Center. Additionally, she?s the Medical Director for the Boston Public Health Commission?s School Based Clinician Program in which she provides direct guidance on how best to support the socioemotional wellbeing of children within the Boston Public School System. On behalf of NAMI, she regularly engages with the general public, as well as with organizations, companies, healthcare providers, and fellow clinicians and researchers. She is a trusted source of child mental health expertise for major media outlets including the New York Times, the Washington Post, NPR, the Boston Globe, NBC, and Medscape. She has made on-camera appearances for the Today Show, BBC, and local news affiliates of CBS, Fox, and ABC. She lives with her family in Boston, Massachusetts.   Things you'll learn from this episode Why it?s important that we talk openly and frequently with our child about their feelings, starting as early as age three What signs to look for in terms of changes in mood or behavior that might indicate our child is experiencing a mental health challenge Why parental involvement in mental health care is critical for supporting children?s progress Why learning how to manage and tolerate distressing feelings isn?t just for our struggling kids What the ?distress radius? is and how to use it to identify the extent and impact of mental health issues within our families How and when to seek community support and other resources when a child is navigating a mental health challenge   Resources mentioned National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) You Are Not Alone for Parents and Caregivers: The NAMI Guide to Navigating Your Child?s Mental Health?With Advice from Experts and Wisdom from Real Families by Dr. Christine Crawford You Are Not Alone book website Help for Parents! Symptoms and Steps for Kids' Mental Health Struggles (GoToHealth Media YouTube video) Debbie Reber Shares Her Best Self-Care Strategies 11 Ideas for Boosting Your Self-Care (PDF) Debbie?s Self-Care Planner Template   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Rita Eichenstein, author of "Not What I Expected: Help and Hope for Parents of Atypical Children," talks about how parents can process the discovery that their child is neurodivergent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debbie Reber and parent coach Margaret Webb answer a listener's question about how to deal with chaotic energy among children during the bedtime transition (as well as other big transitions). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Allie Ticktin, a licensed occupational therapist with a specialty in sensory integration and early childhood development, talks about how to tap into the power of play to support a child's learning and development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I?ll say right upfront that this is a different kind of episode for the podcast, but stick with me, because today, we?re diving into digital decluttering. I know firsthand the toll digital clutter can take. Raising neurodivergent kids means managing a ton of information ? from school communications and teacher emails to scheduling appointments, handling assessments, and organizing documentation. It?s a lot to keep track of, and it can really weigh us down. If you can relate, this episode is for you. I invited tech and productivity coach Amanda Jefferson, affectionately known as the Tech Whisperer, to help us tackle digital clutter. Amanda guides busy people through streamlining their digital lives and speaks about silencing society?s noisy ?shoulds.? She?s a TEDx speaker, one of the world?s first KonMari consultants, and co-host of the Good Enough-ish podcast. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Real Simple, Harper?s Bazaar, and Good Day Philadelphia. In our conversation, we discussed the importance of digital decluttering, particularly for neurodivergent families. Amanda shared strategies for securely storing essential documents, organizing email to reduce stress, managing passwords, and using what she calls ?free assistants? on our devices to make daily routines run more smoothly. Even if you consider yourself tech-savvy, I think you?ll learn something new in this episode. Enjoy, and hopefully, you?ll walk away with some actionable steps!   About Amanda Jefferson Amanda Jefferson is a tech and productivity coach, TEDx speaker, one of the world?s first KonMari consultants, and host of the top-rated Good Enough-ish podcast. She has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Real Simple, Harpers Bazaar, Good Day Philadelphia, and more. She was recently named a Top 50 Women Speaker of 2024 by renowned speaker and author Jess Ekstrom. Known affectionately as the Tech Whisperer, Amanda helps busy people declutter their digital lives and talks to audiences about how to quiet the noisy shoulds of society.   Things you'll learn from this episode How tackling digital clutter bit by bit can lead to noticeable improvements, reducing overwhelm and enhancing focus Why setting up an ?action-needed? folder can streamline email processing, while Gmail's sorting tools and filters help keep the inbox clutter-free What the ?cloud? is and why it?s invaluable for securely storing essential documents and making them accessible anytime Ideas for streamlining password management The types of ?digital assistants? available to help with reminders, scheduling, and hands-free task management, making family routines smoother How AI tools like ChatGPT can save time on research and assist with documentation, making digital workflows quicker and more efficient   Resources mentioned Amanda?s website Indigo Organizing The Good Enoughish Podcast Work with Amanda on digital decluttering Amanda on Instagram Amanda?s Free Ultimate Checklist for Organizing your Gmail How to Stay on Top of your Gmail ? and Actually Have Fun While Doing It  Skylight Calendar (Tilt listeners get $40 off purchase of a Skylight Calendar when you go to skylightcal.com/tilt)  One Password Bringing Clarity Into Your Home, Spaces & Life, with Lisa Viscardi (Tilt Parenting podcast)  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debbie talks with four differently wired adults who share their stories of discovering and/or learn more about their own neurodivergence as a result of parenting their differently wired children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I?m thrilled to finally welcome Drs. Brock and Fernette Eide to the show! They?re the authors of the groundbreaking, recently updated book The Dyslexic Advantage: Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain. As leading experts in dyslexia, Brock and Fernette have reshaped our understanding of dyslexia through a strengths-based lens. They continue this work through their nonprofit, Dyslexic Advantage, and their social purpose company, Neurolearning. Rather than viewing dyslexia as a disorder, they advocate for understanding it as a unique learning and processing style. In today?s conversation, you?ll hear how their approach brings out the exceptional qualities and talents in dyslexic individuals. In our discussion, we explored their new approach to dyslexia that begins not with definitions but with how the dyslexic mind functions. We covered the various ways dyslexia can manifest beyond reading challenges, why some twice-exceptional dyslexic kids are often overlooked under traditional definitions, and the importance of embracing dyslexia as part of one's identity. We also dove into strategies for advocating with schools to secure accommodations and discussed different ways students can thrive academically. This updated edition of The Dyslexic Advantage also highlights how a strengths-centered framework is gaining traction in schools and workplaces, plus new insights into the neurobiology underlying dyslexia and its associated strengths. As you?ll hear from Brock and Fernette, understanding dyslexia more fully allows us to open up conversations with educators about alternative learning strategies that may benefit not just our kids, but all students in the classroom.   About Drs. Brock and Fernette Eide Leading experts on dyslexia and authors of the groundbreaking book The Dyslexic Advantage: Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain, Brock Eide, MD, MA, and Fernette Eide, MD, have been at the forefront of redefining our understanding of dyslexia. In the updated 2023 edition, they incorporate the latest research and modern techniques to highlight a strength-based approach to dyslexia, moving away from traditional deficit-focused models. This revision features 20 new interviews, insights into how a strengths-centered framework is being implemented in schools and workplaces, and fresh information on the neurobiology that underpins dyslexia and its associated strengths. The Eides advocate for viewing dyslexia as a unique learning and processing style rather than a disorder. Their influential work has played a pivotal role in transforming conventional views on dyslexia and has inspired countless individuals. Together, they are the authors of The Dyslexic Advantage and The Mislabeled Child, and they founded the nonprofit organization Dyslexic Advantage and the social purpose company Neurolearning.com. They reside in Edmonds, Washington, with their son.   Things you'll learn How the traditional focus on weaknesses in dyslexia overlooks the strengths that dyslexic individuals possess Why the definition of dyslexia include diverse cognitive processing styles beyond reading challenges Why it?s important to recognize the unique learning profiles of twice exceptional children when addressing dyslexia How stealth dyslexia in gifted individuals can lead to underdiagnosis and missed support opportunities The role that a strengths-based perspective plays in helping dyslexic individuals excel in areas requiring experience-based reasoning   Resources mentioned The Dyslexic Advantage (Brock and Fernette?s nonprofit organization) The Dyslexic Advantage (Revised and Updated): Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain by Drs. Brock and Fernette Eide The Mislabeled Child: Looking Beyond Behavior to Find the True Sources and Solutions for Children's Learning Challenge by Drs. Brock and Fernette Eide Neurolearning (dyslexia screening and strengths assessment) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Melissa Neff talks about the unique challenges for adults who discover their own neurodivergence as a result of going through the diagnostic process with their children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When my child was little, one of the most common sleep training methods was the "cry it out" approach. We tried it briefly, and it felt absolutely terrible for all of us. I know many parents can relate to the feelings of desperation and overwhelm that come when a child just isn?t sleeping. I wish I?d known back then about sleep coaches Macall Gordon and Kim West, also known as The Sleep Lady, who have developed a gentler, effective approach to changing sleep patterns. Their approach, based on years of research and experience with thousands of families, is especially suited for children who are more alert, intense, and persistent than their peers?and who put up a bigger fight at bedtime. Sound familiar? Then this episode is for you. In their new book, Why Won?t You Sleep?! A Gamechanging Approach for Nonstop, Super-Alert, Big-Feeling Kids, Kim and Macall present a fresh take on sleep training, rooted in understanding a child?s unique temperament. In our conversation, we cover common sleep struggles, misconceptions about sleep training, and why a gradual approach is empowering for both parents and children. They also share tips on setting limits for early risers and managing transitions that encourage peaceful nights.  About Macall Gordon Macall is a researcher, speaker, and author specializing in the link between temperament and sleep. She has a master?s degree in Applied Psychology from Antioch University, Seattle with a research-based specialization in infant mental health. She also has a B.S. in Human Biology from Stanford University. She has conducted and presented research on temperament, sleep, and parenting advice at infant and child development conferences around the world. She has been a featured speaker at national sleep conferences and has led webinar-based advanced training for sleep coaches, mental health providers, and others. She is a certified Gentle Sleep Coach in private practice and is a featured provider on the women?s telehealth platform, Maven Clinic. She is the co-author (with Kim West) of the upcoming book Why Won?t You Sleep?! A Gamechanging Approach for Nonstop, Super Alert, Big-feeling Kids. She comes to this work because she had two sensitive, alert, intense children, and she didn?t sleep for eighteen years. About Kim West Kim West, LCSW-C is a mom of two who has been a practicing child and family social worker for over 25 years. She has personally helped over twenty thousand families all over the world gently teach their children how to fall asleep?and fall back asleep without leaving them to cry it out alone. She started training Gentle Sleep Coaches internationally in 2010 and has appeared as a child sleep expert on numerous magazines, newspapers, and television programs including Dr. Phil, TODAY, and Good Morning America. She is the author of five other books. Things you'll learn How gentle sleep coaching can serve as an effective alternative to traditional methods Why understanding a child?s temperament is crucial in the success of sleep training How behaviorism in sleep training differs from its limited use in other areas of parenting Why a gradual approach to sleep training empowers both parents and children, and how to do that Why parents of intense children often feel stuck between traditional methods and alternative approaches when it comes to supporting their child?s sleep How setting limits helps empower parents while teaching children new sleep-related skills Resources mentioned Macall Gordon?s website LIttle Live Wires website Kim West, aka The Sleep Lady, website Why Won?t You Sleep?! A Game-Changing Approach for Exhausted Parents of Nonstop, Super Alert, Big Feelings Kids by Macall Gordon and Kim West, MSW Little Live Wires on Instagram Little Live Wires on Facebook The Fussy Baby on Facebook Little Live Wires on TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the years, countless strategies have been created to help differently wired kids succeed in school and life. But as the neurodiversity movement grows, there's increasing awareness that many of these approaches focus on fitting neurodivergent kids into neurotypical environments and norms, rather than embracing and respecting their unique ways of experiencing the world. My guest, Elizabeth Sautter, a speech-language pathologist and social-emotional learning specialist, was initially trained in a more traditional ?medical model? focused on diagnosing and "fixing" behaviors to promote conformity to neurotypical standards. She co-authored the popular Whole Body Listening Larry series, which aimed to help kids improve listening skills and attention by engaging their whole body. While intended to support neurodivergent students, Elizabeth later recognized that the series reinforced ableist concepts. Now, Elizabeth is on a mission to promote a neurodiversity-affirming, strengths-based approach that emphasizes acceptance and advocating for individualized support. She?s been instrumental in updating the series with a new, neurodiversity-affirming title: Listen, Learn, and Grow: A Whole Body Listening Larry Story to Help Kids Regulate, Listen, and Engage. As the publisher notes, ?Listening Larry is back, and he?s learned a few things about neurodiversity.? Elizabeth, author of Make Social and Emotional Learning Stick!, co-author of The Zones of Regulation children?s books, card decks, and games, and part of the EveryDay Regulation team, joins me to talk about her journey from traditional speech pathology to embracing a neurodiversity-affirming approach. We?ll dive into the story of Whole Body Listening Larry, how she responded to critical feedback from the neurodivergent community, and the development of new resources that promote inclusivity and understanding. Plus, we?ll explore what it really means to be a ?good listener.? And, as we discuss, Elizabeth?s big goal is to replace the original Whole Body Listening Larry with the updated, neurodiversity-affirming version. So if you see the original in libraries, classrooms, or even on your own shelf, we encourage you to swap it out!   About Elizabeth Sautter Elizabeth A. Sautter, MA, CCC, is a speech-language pathologist/social-emotional expert, speaker, author, and trainer. She is the author of Make Social and Emotional Learning Stick! Practical activities to help your child manage emotions, navigate social situations & reduce anxiety, along with many other resources, including an online course and community for parents. Elizabeth collaborates with the Zones of Regulation team as a trainer and is a coauthor of the Zones children?s books, card decks, and games. She is also part of the EveryDay Reglation team with the focus on providing neurodiversity affirming resources for whole body regulation. She loves to connect on @elizabeth.sautter (IG), ElizabethSautterMACCCSLP (FB) or www.ElizabethSautter.com   Things you'll learn How Elizabeth shifted her focus as an SLP to a neurodivergent-affirming model of support and skill building Why listening looks different for everyone (and that's okay!) How the Whole Body Listening Larry book series and poster has been rewritten to focus on strengths, self-awareness, and regulation Why it's important to model and discuss our own listening styles with children and how to do that Ideas for creating inclusive educational environments, and why they benefit all learners, not just neurodivergent individuals   Resources mentioned Everyday Regulation website Elizabeth Sautter?s website Listen, Learn, and Grow: A Whole Body Listening Larry Story to Help Kids Regulate, Listen, and Engage by McAlister Greiner Huynh, Elizabeth A. Sautter, and Kristen Wilson Elizabeth on Instagram Elizabeth on Facebook Whole Body Listening Free Poster download Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Development pediatrician Dr. Mark Bertin talks about his new book How Children Thrive: The Practical Science of Raising Independent, Resilient, and Happy Kids, as well as resilience in our kids and the benefits of mindful parenting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, I?m excited to share my conversation with Ali Miller on how nonviolent communication (NVC) can help navigate co-parenting dynamics and couple relationships. When raising a neurodivergent child, there are often many opportunities for parents to disagree?whether it?s about the therapies to explore, whether or not to disclose a diagnosis to family members, or even if a diagnosis exists at all. These discussions can be tough and can definitely place a strain on the relationship. But with nonviolent communication, we can learn how to have conversations that feel like a win-win for everyone involved. Ali Miller is an expert in Nonviolent Communication (NVC) and has been a marriage and family therapist for over twenty years. In 2021, she became certified as a Clini-Coach® specializing in couples communication. As an online coach, she helps couples worldwide improve their communication and conflict resolution skills, allowing them to experience more peace, passion, and possibilities in their relationships. In this conversation, Ali and I discussed what NVC is and why it?s a comprehensive model that supports all kinds of relationships. We explored how understanding our feelings?and more importantly, the underlying needs behind them?is crucial for effective communication. Ali also emphasized the importance of empathy and self-empathy in the NVC model, and shared how to express our needs to our partners without blame or judgment (while also acknowledging that this doesn?t absolve our partner of responsibility). This conversation truly highlights how NVC can transform conflict into connection by fostering empathy and understanding between partners. I hope you enjoy it!   About Ali Miller Ali Miller, an expert in Nonviolent Communication (NVC), has been a Marriage & Family Therapist for over twenty years. In 2021 she became certified as a Clini-Coach® specializing in Couples Communication. As an online coach, she helps couples all over the world level up their communication + conflict navigation skills so they can experience more peace, passion, and possibilities in their relationship.   Things you'll learn from this episode What nonviolent communication (NVC) is and why it?s a comprehensive model that can support any and all relationships How understanding feelings, and more importantly, our underlying needs, is crucial for effective communication The importance of empathy and self-empathy in the NVC model Why recognizing universal human needs can bridge gaps in understanding and foster true compassion and understanding How to express our needs to our partner without blame or judgment (and why it doesn?t mean our partner bears no responsibility)   Resources mentioned Ali Miller?s website Ali on Instagram Ali?s Private Facebook Group The 4 Steps to Stop Any Fight Without Giving In (free mini-course) Feelings and Needs Cheatsheets Ali?s Podcast: Love Each Other Better 8-Week Private Coaching Program for Couples ? Stop Fighting! (without stuffing your feelings or sacrificing your needs) Marshall Rosenberg and the Center for Nonviolent Communication Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life: Life-Changing Tools for Healthy Relationships by Marshall Rosenberg Zach Morris on Nonviolent Communication and Whole Person Learning (Tilt Parenting podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Strategic learning assessment psychologist Dr. Devon MacEachron provides ideas for next steps for parents after receiving a diagnosis for their child. Connect with Tilt Parenting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest for today?s show is likely no stranger to you. He?s been on the podcast before, we?ve co-hosted special live events focused on the mental health crisis among neurodivergent kids, and he?s a key figure in the differently wired revolution. Through his speaking engagements, work as a therapist for kids and adults, and his own lived experience as a neurodivergent individual, he?s a powerful advocate for understanding and supporting neurodivergent students. Yes, I?m talking about Dr. Matt Zakreski. Today, I?m thrilled to have him back to dive into his brand-new book, Neurodiversity Playbook: How Neurodivergent People Can Crack the Code of Living in a Neurotypical World. Full disclosure: I wrote the foreword for this book, and I was honored to do so because it?s such a valuable resource for so many people. In the foreword, and what I?ll share with you now, is that Matt?s book encourages readers to embrace the full neurodivergent experience, offering deep understanding, validation, and a wealth of practical ideas to help ?crack the code? and design a life on their own terms. Neurodiversity Playbook feels like a warm ?welcome to the Club? for neurodivergent individuals and those who love and support them. In this conversation, while we couldn?t cover everything in the book, we touched on some of the big concepts, including why grounding discussions in neuroscience is key to understanding neurodivergence, how to navigate tricky everyday situations like making small talk, and how awareness of neurodiversity has evolved over the years. We also explored code-switching as an empowering tool and how to do it with intention and choice.   About Dr. Matt Zakresk Matthew ?Dr. Matt? Zakreski, PsyD is a high energy, creative clinical psychologist and professional speaker who utilizes an eclectic approach to meet the specific needs of his neurodivergent clients. He is proud to serve the Gifted community as a consultant, a professor, an author, and a researcher. He has spoken hundreds of times all over the world about supporting neurodivergent kids. He is the co-founder of The Neurodiversity Collective and the author of the The Neurodiversity Playbook: How Neurodivergent People Can Crack the Code of Living in a Neurotypical World.   Things you'll learn from this episode How Dr. Matt's personal journey informs his professional work and shapes his approach to neurodiversity. How neurodiversity awareness has significantly evolved over the years and there is significant progress in understanding. How grounding discussions in neuroscience is crucial for understanding neurodivergence. How the Neurodiversity Playbook aims to be a practical guide to help neurodivergent humans navigate a neurotypical world. How code-switching can be a useful tool for neurodivergent individuals and enhance their ability to adapt. Why compromise is essential for fostering understanding and bridging communication gaps between neurodivergent and neurotypical people.   Resources mentioned Dr. Matt Zakreski?s website The Neurodiversity Playbook: How Neurodivergent People Can Crack the Code of Living in a Neurotypical World by Dr. Matt Zakreski The Neurodiversity Collective Dr. Matt Zakreski on Facebook Suicide and Suicidal Ideation in Neurodivergent Teens & Children, with Dr. Matt Zakreski (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Dr. Matt Zakreski dialogues on Gifted Homeschooler Forum Failure is FUN?damental (Matt?s talk about National Talent Centre of the Netherlands) Mental Health Check-In Masterclass with Matt Zakreski and Debbie Reber, Part 1 Mental Health Check-In Masterclass with Matt Zakreski and Debbie Reber, Part 2 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Speaker and author Jonathan Oliver shares his personal story of being a differently wired (ADHD and dyslexia), stay-at-home father of two children. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a parent of a neurodivergent child, you?ve probably had to let go of the traditional timelines we?re often told our kids should follow, especially when it comes to school milestones. And that requires a big adjustment for us as parents! But what if we all took a step back and focused more on slowing down? That?s exactly what my guest today, educator and author Leslie Martino, encourages us to do. With over twenty years of experience as a teacher, homeschooler, and adjunct lecturer, Leslie has a deep passion for helping parents and educators embrace a slower, more child-directed approach to learning. She homeschools her four children and also works as an educational consultant and parent coach, and her new book, The Joy of Slow: Restoring Wonder and Balance to Homeschool Learning, is a powerful guide to this philosophy. In this conversation, we dive into how slowing down in education leads to deeper understanding and makes space for joyful, spontaneous learning. Leslie shares how creating a learning environment that values curiosity and playfulness?not just during structured learning times, but throughout the day?can foster lifelong learners. We also talk about the importance of connection and relationships in both parenting and education, and how that connection is at the heart of nurturing children who love to learn. Even if you?re not homeschooling, I promise you?ll take away so much from this episode.   About Leslie Martino Leslie Martino has over twenty years of experience teaching?as an elementary school teacher, a home educator, and an adjunct lecturer for graduate courses focused on the role of the teacher in supporting children?s individual work preferences. She homeschools her four children and works as an educational consultant, writing curricula, training teachers, and coaching parents to approach learning in an interest-based and child-directed way. She is a speaker on topics of education and motherhood and is also a contributing writer for the Wild + Free homeschooling community.   Things you'll learn from this episode Why it?s critical that parents create a learning environment that values curiosity How slowing down in education leads to deeper understanding and makes room for learning to be a joyful and meaningful process? How spontaneity in learning fosters natural responses and engagement, and how to ?build in? room for spontaneity in everyday life Why playfulness essential in both parenting and education, and ways to ensure education is an exploratory rather than a linear process Why connection and relationship is at the heart of effective education and fostering humans who truly become lifelong learners   Resources mentioned Leslie Martino?s website The Joy of Slow: Restoring Wonder and Balance to Homeschool Learning by Leslie Martino Leslie Martino on Instagram The Call of the Wild and Free: Reclaiming the Wonder in Your Child's Education, A New Way to Homeschool by Ainsley Arment Bored and Brilliant: How Spacing Out Can Unlock Your Most Productive and Creative Self by Manoush Zomorodi Angela Sizer and Maren Goerss on Homeschooling & Thinking Differently About Learning (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Think Differently About Learning: A Homeschool Where Parents and Children Thrive by Angela Sizer and Maren Goerss Becoming a Critical Thinker: A Workbook to Help Students Think Well in an Age of Disinformation by Julie Bogart Julie Bogart on Helping Kids Become Critical Thinkers (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What comes to mind when you think about raising healthy kids? We often focus on physical health ? things like height, weight, and nutrition. But today, we're taking a more holistic look at health with return guest, nutritionist and author Jill Castle. Specifically, e're diving into her new book, Kids Thrive at Every Size: How to Nourish Your Big, Small, or In-Between Child for a Lifetime of Health and Happiness. In our conversation, we explore why emotional well-being is just as important as physical health, how COVID-19 has impacted kids? nutrition, and the often-overlooked difference between feeding and eating. Jill highlights how family culture and values shape a child?s overall health and why it's so important to foster a body-neutral environment at home. We also touch on the connection between executive function and eating, plus the role screens and media play in shaping body image. Before we dive in, a bit about Jill: She's one of the nation?s leading childhood nutrition experts, blending research with practical advice. She believes children can thrive at any size and challenges us to think differently about their health. Jill is the founder and CEO of The Nourished Child®, a nutrition education platform, and the mother of four adult-ish kids. This conversation feels especially timely as our kids are bombarded with messages about how their bodies should look and behave. Now more than ever, it's crucial to provide them with a strong foundation for understanding health. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Jill Castle.   About Jill Castle Jill Castle is the author of the book, Kids Thrive at Every Size (Workman, 2024) and one of the nation?s premier childhood nutrition experts. Known for her ability to blend current research, practical application, and common sense, Jill believes that children can thrive at every size. With her paradigm-shifting, whole-child approach, she inspires parents, healthcare professionals, and organizations that serve children and families to think differently about young people?s health and wellbeing. Jill is the founder and CEO of The Nourished Child®, a nutrition education website and podcast for parents, and the mother of four adult-ish children.   Things you'll learn How prioritizing emotional well-being is as important as physical health in children What a ?whole child healthy? approach includes beyond nutrition How COVID-19 has impacted children's nutrition as evidenced by increased snacking and coping mechanisms related to food Why cultivating a body-neutral family culture is crucial How parents addressing their own food baggage and modeling healthy behaviors positively influences children Why screens and media significantly influence children's body image and self-esteem How parents can become 'size-wise' by understanding the pillars of wellness and working towards raising a healthy, happy child   Resources mentioned Jill Castle?s website (private consultation and other services) Kids Thrive at Every Size: How to Nourish Your Big, Small, or In-Between Child for a Lifetime of Health and Happiness by Jill Castle The Nourished Child website The Nourished Child Podcast Jill Castle on Instagram Jill Castle on Facebook Nutritionist Jill Castle with the Facts About ADHD and Nutrition in Kids (Tilt Parenting podcast)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Flex School founder Jacqui Byrne shares her vision for creating powerful learning communities for gifted and 2e students through her unique educational model. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parent coach Zach Morris and Debbie answer a listener's question about sharing a new autism diagnosis with a 10 year old who embraces his neurodivergence but lives in a community / culture where the term "autism" has a negative connotation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today?s conversation, I?m diving into the much-anticipated book Navigating PDA in America with the co-authors and thought leaders in the PDA space, Diane Gould and Ruth Fidler. We've touched on PDA in past episodes, but I learned so much from this book, and I?m excited to share it with you because PDA is a diagnosis bringing a lot of clarity and relief to families. As it gains traction in the neurodivergence space, the more we know, the better we can support PDAers in our communities. In this episode, we talk about the nuances of the PDA profile and how to one might determine if the identification fits, where North America stands in understanding PDA in comparison with the rest of the world, the challenges PDA individuals face in school and how they can effectively be addressed, what type of therapy is best for someone with a PDA profile, and much more.   About Diane Gould Diane Gould is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that specializes in serving autistic individuals. As the Executive Director and Founder of PDA North America, she founded the annual PDA North America conference held in Chicago that has changed the lives of hundreds of PDA (pathological demand avoidance/persistent drive for autonomy) families. She co-authored the book Navigating PDA in America with Ruth Fidler which was published in June 2024. In April 2024, Diane was diagnosed as autistic. Diane has a private practice in the suburbs of Chicago, where she serves neurodivergent children, adults and their families. Over the last 40 plus years, she has worked for both private agencies and school systems. She currently focuses her practice on providing consultation and training. She works primarily with parents and regularly attends school meetings with them. Diane loves to train educators and therapists so they can better serve their students and clients. And learning about PDA, led her to begin the new PDA movement in North America. Diane formed PDA North America at the first American PDA conference in March 2020. About Ruth Fidler Ruth Fidler is an Education Consultant specializing in complex presentations of autism, Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and emotional well-being. She worked at an all age non-maintained special school for 22 years until 2014 and has worked independently since then. Ruth worked within the school promoting interactive approaches and emotional well- being for pupils with varying autistic profiles. As well as providing training, she regularly observes and monitors teaching and learning, supporting staff to embed and refine good autism and SEND practice. She often presents at local or national events and conferences for parents and for a range of professionals. She is co-author of the following books: Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance Syndrome in Children, Can I Tell You About Pathological Demand Avoidance?, Collaborative Approaches to Learning, Girls and Autism, Being Julia, and Navigating PDA in America.   Things you'll learn How Diane and Ruth came to share their personal journeys working with neurodivergent individuals and collaborate on the book Navigating PDA in America The state of understanding and awareness of PDA in North America in comparison with the UK and Australia The factors that distinguish a PDA profile of autism, including using socially strategic ways to avoid demands and more Ways schools can better support PDA students, such as adopting flexible approaches, building trust, and recognizing the need for fluctuating capacity and recovery time Why traditional therapeutic modalities may be ineffective for PDA individuals, and what is most important for therapy to be successful and positive   Resources mentioned Diane Gould?s website Ruth Fidler?s website Navigating PDA in America: A Framework to Support Anxious, Demand-Avoidant Autistic Children, Teens, and Young Adults by Ruth Fidler and Diane Gould PDA North America PDA Society (UK) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Neuropsychologist William Stixrud PhD and Ned Johnson talk about their gamechanging book "The Self-Driven Child" and explain the importance of supporting our child's sense of control and autonomy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today's episode, my guest reminds us that no one goes through life unscathed. We all face big, difficult challenges?it's part of being human. And when we encounter these challenges while parenting, it's up to us to help our kids make sense of things in healthy ways that foster resilience. But how exactly do we do that? My guest, author-illustrator Sara Olsher, is a strong advocate for talking to kids honestly about the big things happening in our families. She speaks from her own experience, having navigated difficult conversations with her daughter during a messy divorce, followed shortly by a cancer diagnosis. Despite her fears about using the word "cancer," Sara knew it was important for her daughter to understand what was happening with accurate information. As Sara explained in our conversation, ?Developmentally, the whole world revolves around them. So if you don't talk with children about these things, they?ll invent a story that centers on them, and they may conclude it?s their fault.? I love talking with people who take their personal experiences and hard-earned wisdom and turn them into tools to help others feel more supported and confident. That?s exactly what Sara did, and today, she shares her journey with us. You'll hear how she navigated her divorce and used her daughter?s anxiety as an opportunity to learn the power of visual schedules and open communication in helping kids cope with tough situations. She also discusses the series of children?s books she?s written to help parents tackle heavy topics like chronic illness, hospice, cancer, and emotions. One thing that really stood out to me was how going through hard times can actually prepare our kids to live with uncertainty. In addition to her books, Sara is the founder of Mighty and Bright, a company that helps kids and adults manage their lives more easily with magnetic visual schedules. She shares how she discovered visual schedules almost by accident, but how they transformed her daughter?s anxiety overnight. They sound like a game changer for many families, so definitely check out her resources if they resonate with you. I hope you enjoy this conversation with Sara Olsher.   About Sara Olsher After surviving a divorce and cancer all before she turned 35, mom and author-illustrator Sara Olsher took the lessons she learned about helping kids through major life changes and wrote a book. Then another, and another. She now has twelve picture books under her belt, and is the founder of Mighty and Bright, a company that helps kids and adults understand and manage their lives more easily using magnetic visual schedules. Sara was chosen as a 2023 Remarkable Woman by Nexstar Media.   Things you'll learn Why open communication and honesty are crucial when discussing difficult topics with children How visual schedules provide a sense of control and security for children, especially when they?re experiencing anxiety related to life circumstances How children's books can be powerful tools for explaining complex concepts like chronic illness, divorce, and death Why ongoing communication and flexibility are key in supporting children as they foster adaptability How parents can heal their own trauma and create a deeper connection with their children by addressing difficult topics openly and honestly   Resources mentioned Sara Olsher?s website Mighty and Bright Mighty and Bright on Instagram Mighty and Bright on TikTok What Happens When? book series Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Manju Banerjee, VP of Educational Research and Innovation at Landmark College, talks about Landmark's vision for helping neurodivergent students thrive in college and in their careers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just as technology evolves rapidly, so too do the ways drugs are consumed. For parents, it can be challenging to recognize when our kids are using, especially since many products on the market now resemble harmless school supplies or candy. And then if we find our kids are engaging in drug use, how do we even begin to navigate that? That?s what we?re going to explore today with my guest Brenda Zane, whose oldest son struggled with an addiction to a high-risk lifestyle and illicit drugs for over five years. After nearly losing him to two fentanyl overdoses, Brenda left her marketing career to serve other families dealing with the fear, confusion, and feelings of helplessness of having a child who?s misusing drugs or alcohol, becoming a family advocate and co-founding the nonprofit organization Hopestream Community, where she serves parents of teens and young adults who struggle with substance misuse and mental health challenges. This is such a powerful conversation and one I truly recommend all parents to listen to, no matter the age of their children, as it?s important to understand the landscape for drug access and use in the lives of today?s kids. During this episode, Brenda and I talked about the importance of open communication and understanding the reasons behind drug use, the dangers of high-potency THC products in younger users, and the challenges parents face when their teenagers experiment with substances, as well as explore the idea that there is a difference between ?typical experimentation? and problematic use when talking about marijuana. I know that this can be one of those uncomfortable topics that many of us would rather avoid thinking about, especially if we have a history of substance abuse in our families, but it?s important for our kids' safety that we do the research and create spaces for these conversations to be had at home. One last thing, please know that this episode contains references to drug abuse, overdosing, and mental health issues. So do what you need to do to take care of yourself if these are triggering themes for you.   About Brenda Zane Brenda Zane is a family advocate and co-founder of the nonprofit organization Hopestream Community. She?s passionate about serving parents of teens and young adults who struggle with substance misuse and mental health challenges. Brenda?s oldest son struggled with an addiction to a high-risk lifestyle and illicit drugs for over five years. After nearly losing him to multiple fentanyl overdoses, Brenda left her marketing career to serve other families dealing with the fear, confusion, and feelings of helplessness of having a child who?s misusing drugs or alcohol. You can hear Brenda weekly on the Hopestream podcast.   Things you'll learn How today?s marijuana is significantly more potent than traditional marijuana and how that can impact a developing adolescent brain Why parents need to stay informed about new drug delivery methods, such as vape pens and edibles, to effectively address drug use in their children What some of the reasons behind drug use are, including coping with social anxiety or seeking acceptance How leveraging a child's strengths in positive activities can help redirect their focus and prevent problematic drug use Why it?s critical that parents create a safe space for teenagers to talk about their experiences and the reasons behind their substance use When to seek support from therapists and communities that provide resources and guidance for parents navigating these challenges   Resources mentioned: Hope Stream Community website Hope Stream Community on Instagram Hope Stream Podcast Worried Sick: A compassionate Guide for Parents of Teens or Young Adults Misusing substances (free ebook) HINDSIGHT: Three Things I Wish I Knew When My Son was Misusing Substances (free ebook) The Addiction Inoculation: Raising Healthy Kids in a Culture of Dependence by Jessica Lahey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pediatric psychologist and author Mona Delahooke talks about her new book "Beyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children's Behavioral Challenges." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parent coach Margaret Webb and Debbie discuss how to help an autistic child with low self-esteem. They explore the importance of giving the child time to regulate and be alone, rather than assuming it is a sign of low self-esteem. They also discuss the window shade age, where children become aware of their differences from their peers. They emphasize the need to support effort rather than outcome and to make sure the child feels valued. The conversation ends with a reminder to trust in oneself as a parent and seek support if needed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My fall season is officially starting today and I?m kicking it off with a conversation with Dr. Billy Garvey on mental health. Billy, a developmental pediatrician with over 20 years? experience working with children in Australia, met last year while he was traveling around the world on a fellowship to explore the connection between how children are parented and their mental health as adults. One of the outcomes of that fellowship is Billy?s new book, which is called 10 Things I Wish You Knew About Your Child's Mental Health, which he was kind enough to send me an advanced copy of. So I wanted to bring him on the show to talk about that, but really to expand on that initial conversation I had with him but so that you all could be a part of it, too. We covered a lot of ground in this extra long episode, including challenges of accessing mental health support in Australia, the need for true inclusion and what that actually means, the importance of unconditional love for kids, attachment and temperament, the role of self-esteem, and the limitations of certain diagnoses, and much more.   About Dr. Billy Garvey Dr Billy Garvey is a developmental pediatrician with over 20 years? experience working with children in a number of settings. He is a senior specialist at one of the largest tertiary pediatric hospitals in the world where he sees families, trains clinicians and other professionals working with children and conducts research in child development and mental health. Dr Billy?s clinical and research interests include child development and mental health, multidisciplinary collaboration, improving health literacy and promoting community engagement to support all families. He holds clinical, advocacy and research roles in government and not-for-profit organizations at a national, state and local level. He is currently undertaking a PhD piloting a model to support child emotional and behavioral development in primary schools and is a Churchill Fellow exploring how social media can be used to support parenting. He is also the founder of Guiding Growing Minds, a social enterprise that aims to give all children the opportunity to reach their potential and live rich and meaningful lives. The Pop Culture Parenting podcast is part of this vision.   Things you'll learn Why access to mental health support for children in Australia is a challenge, with long wait lists and limited availability of specialists How unconditional love and support are essential for helping children develop a positive sense of self and navigate challenges, and what that looks like in action Why the younger generation shows promise in driving positive change and embracing neurodiversity How secure attachment and sensitive parenting contribute to promoting healthy child development, and ways attachment can be strengthened over time Why self-esteem is best cultivated through consistent support, celebrating successes, and providing opportunities for growth The negative implications (and unhelpfulness) of diagnoses like oppositional defiance disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder (CD)   Resources mentioned Dr. Billy Garvey?s website Guiding Growing Minds Ten Things I Wish You Knew About Your Child?s Mental Health by Dr. Billy Garvey Pop Culture Parenting (podcast) Dr. Tina Payne Bryson Dr. Mona Delahooke Dr. Dan Siegel Dr. Bruce Perry Thomas Boyce?s The Orchid Child and the Dandelion (Talks at Google) Jurassic Park and Co-Regulation (Pop Culture Parenting podcast) Forrest Gump and Kids Who Are Different (Pop Culture Parenting podcast) Thelma & Louise and Mental Health First-Aid (Pop Culture Parenting podcast) Blade Runner and Neurodiversity (Pop Culture Parenting podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Author and thought leader Jordan Shapiro, PhD, talks about his new book "The New Childhood" and why he believes parents should consider embracing and supporting the role of screens and technology in children's lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is a lot of misinformation and stigma around neurodivergence that can create extra barriers and challenges for our families. This is especially true for Tourette syndrome, which is often referred to as ?the most misunderstood well-known condition,? often the punchline of jokes on late-night TV and sitcoms. Its in large part because of these misconceptions and difficulty accessing resources that my guest today, Michele Turk, found herself at a loss when her 11 year old son Michael was diagnosed with Tourette. In her new memoir, What Makes Him Tic? A Memoir of Parenting a Child with Tourette Syndrome, she writes vulnerably about the challenges they faced as a family in getting the right support, navigating school, social, emotional, and academic challenges, and how she evolved from thinking she had to fix Michael to understanding her job was to accept him and help him do the same. She wanted the world to know he was so much more than the boy who shouted obscenities hundreds of times a day. Because Michele has worked as a journalist for three decades, covering parenting, health, and education for outlets like Parents, Parenting, Elle, USA Weekend, The Washington Post, Brain, Child, and Next Avenue, she was compelled to write about her journey as she was in it, and that close up, honest perspective, blended with ample reporting on Tourette make What Makes Him Tic a compelling and informative read. In this episode, Michele talks with us about the misconceptions about Tourette?s that she came across often in her work as a journalist and her private life as a parent. We also talked about what some of the early symptoms were and how they managed them, how differently she and her husband approached the diagnosis and what it took for them to get on the same page, how her son?s diagnosis impacted her daughter, and more.   Things you'll learn How parenting a child with Tourette syndrome be challenging and isolating, and why is it important to trust your gut and seek appropriate medical care What the most common misconceptions of Tourette are What makes navigating the school system so challenging for children with Tourette Ideas for navigating complex sibling dynamics in a mixed neurotype household How finding a passion or interest can help build self-esteem and provide a sense of belonging for children with Tourette   Resources mentioned Michele Turk?s website What Makes Him Tic?: A Memoir of Parenting a Child with Tourette Syndrome by Michele Turk Yale Child Study Center Tic and OCD Program Designated Center of Excellence Debbie and Her Husband Derin Talk About Their Journey of Parenting a Differently Wired Child (Tilt Parenting episode) Tourette Association of America Tourette Association Conference (Tic Con) Dr. Robert King Billie Eilish on Living with Tourette Syndrome (Harper?s Bazaar) How American Idol?s James Durbin Manages Life With Tourette?s and Asperger?s (Tourette Association of America)   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Psychotherapists Heather Turgeon and Julie Wright (The Happy Sleeper) talk about how to handle difficult situations in a way that?s respectful of the child and supports their social and emotional development. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen to an episode of Understood.org's podcast "In It," a podcast for families with kids who learn and think differently, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek. This episode is called ADHD & Puberty, and features an interview with Dr. Roberto Olivardia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Okay, so I?ll just say right at the top that my guest today is NOT a parenting expert. He is, however, a neurodivergent researcher, educator, author, and thinker who has some fascinating things to share about helping our kids energize their brains, spark ideas, and ignite action. Dr. Jeff Karp was that young kid who struggled greatly in school because of his learning disabilities, but when a tutor during the summer after second grade asked him this question ? how did you think about that? ? everything for him changed. He began to be more self-reflective. By thinking about thinking and how he approached learning, he was able to explore and create tools and systems to help him reach his goals both in school and in daily life. Jeff is still thinking about thinking today, and shares his ideas in his fascinating book, LIT: Life Ignition Tools: Use Nature's Playbook to Energize Your Brain, Spark Ideas, and Ignite Action. ??After I read his book, I wanted to bring him on the show because he embodies so much of what we talk about here at Tilt ? encouraging our kids to understand how their brain works, get curious about their own strengths and gifts, and figure out ways to ?hack themselves? so they can design lives that allow them to play to those strengths. As a child, Jeff developed ways to navigate school and life that were based on his curiosity, passion, creativity, and connection to nature. Over the years, he?s evolved his approaches into LIT (Life Ignition Tools) and wrote this book to share them with the rest of the world.   About Dr. Jeff Karp Dr. Jeff Karp holds the Distinguished Chair at Brigham and Women?s Hospital and is a Professor at Harvard Medical School and MIT. He is an elected fellow of the National Academy of Inventors, Royal Society of Chemistry, American Institute for Medical and Biological Engineering, Biomedical Engineering Society, and the Canadian Academy of Engineering. Specializing in bioinspired medical innovation, Dr. Karp leads a research lab focused on harnessing lessons from nature. He has published over 165 peer-reviewed papers with more than 34,000 citations and has delivered nearly 400 invited lectures. He holds over 100 patents, and his lab?s technologies have led to the formation of thirteen companies. His notable innovations include a tissue glue for sealing holes in a beating heart, targeted therapies for osteoarthritis and Crohn?s disease, smart needles, a nasal spray that neutralizes pathogens, and immunotherapy approaches for cancer. Dr. Karp is also dedicated to mentoring the next generation of bioengineers. He has received multiple mentoring awards, and 30 of his trainees have secured faculty positions.   Things you'll learn How self-reflection and ?thinking about thinking? can lead to transformative experiences and strategies for learning and focus What LIT (life ignition tools) is and how they can be used to support positive shifts and movement How being intentional in your actions and reawakening your senses can deepen your experiences What the LEB (low energy brain) dimmer switch is and how it helps regulate energy levels Why being aware of ?bothered awareness? can become a motivator How practicing cycling through your senses helps one connect more deeply with the world and tap into your powerful biology   Resources mentioned Dr. Jeff Karp?s author website Dr. Jeff Karp?s KarpLab website LIT: Life Ignition Tools: Use Nature's Playbook to Energize Your Brain, Spark Ideas, and Ignite Action by Dr. Jeff Karp Jeff?s TEDx Talk Insight Outside: Harnessing Nature?s Secrets Jeff?s TEDx Talk: Turning Failure into Success: 3 principles of Radical Simplicity Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard by Chip and Dan Heath Brian Stevenson / Equal Justice Initiative Transcendental Meditation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Sharon Saline, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents, and families who are dealing with ADHD and other learning disabilities, talks about a child?s emotional journey as they come to understand and accept the way their brain is wired. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Executive function coach Seth Perler joins Debbie to answer a listener question about how to best address adolescent impulsivity and disruptive behavior in a way that diffuses intensity while also effectively working toward growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does the word capable mean to you? My guest, Dr. Deborah Winking, defines a capable person as an individual living a meaning-filled life determined by them and those who love them with the maximum level of autonomy and agency that they can achieve and authentically access. She?s on a mission to show that there?s a version of capable for every child that is unique to them, and it?s what she writes about in her new book, Raising Capable Kids. The 12 Habits Every Parent Needs Regardless of their Child's Label or Challenge. Deborah, an educator, school leader, consultant and researcher, has a Ph.D in Educational Psychology, and is the mother of four children, including one child born with a rare neurological syndrome. She?s worn many hats over the course of her career, including working with and advocating for countless children and families, teaching at the New England Center for Autism where she started the first work experience and supported employment program there, and conducting a 5-year evaluation of the New York City Schools Early Childhood Inclusive Education Initiative. She currently works in a public school teaching bilingual disabled learners. In addition to the book we?re talking about today, Deborah is also the author of a memoir called Capable: A Story of Triumph For Children the World has Judged as "Different.? But for today?s show, Deb shared the story of raising her son Jack and how focusing on the near future, or the next 15 yards as she calls it, helped her stay grounded. We also explored the concept of capable through multiple examples, the role of agency, our vision as parents, and more. I hope you enjoy our conversation!   About Deborah Winking, Ph.D Deborah Winking, Ph.D is the mother of four (including one child born with a rare neurological syndrome), and has worked with and advocated for countless children and families over the years as an educator, school leader, consultant and researcher.  Deborah has a Ph.D in Educational Psychology from the University of Illinois. She taught students with autism at the New England Center for Autism and started the first work experience and supported employment program there; designed the authentic and portfolio assessment program for the Minneapolis Public Schools; conducted the 5 year evaluation of the New York City Schools Early Childhood Inclusive Education Initiative; worked at the University of Washington Center for Educational Leadership training school leaders and teachers across the country in equity based and student centered instructional practices. She currently works in a public school teaching bilingual learners with disabilities. Deborah is the author of two books Capable, and Raising Capable Kids-The 12 Habits Every Parent Needs Regardless of label or Challenge.   Things you'll learn from this episode How parents who are raising their kids to be capable share important mindsets and behaviors What it means to be capable, defined as living a meaningful life with autonomy and agency Why setting a vision of being capable with your child important, and how can it be adjusted as necessary How self-compassion and learning from mistakes are crucial in the parenting journey   Resources mentioned for Raising Capable Kids, Regardless of Diagnosis or Challenge Dr. Deborah Winking?s website Raising Capable Kids. The 12 Habits Every Parent Needs Regardless of their Child's Label or Challenge by Dr. Deborah Winking Capable on Facebook Capable on Instagram Email Deborah directly at [email protected] Meghan Ashburn and Jules Edwards on Autistic Adults, Autism Parents, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World (Tilt Parenting episode) I Will Die on This Hill: Autistic Adults, Autism Parents, and the Children Who Deserve a Better World by Meghan Ashburn and Jules Edwards Self-Determination Theory The Art of Case Study Research Go to us.JKP.com and enter the code TiltRCK20 to get Raising Capable Kids for 20% off, plus free shipping. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amanda Morin of Understood joins Debbie for a special back-to-school episode to help families prepare for easing into the coming school year with as much confidence and serenity as possible. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you?ve ever used the word ?baffling? when describing your child?s behavior, this episode is for you. My guest is Robyn Gobbel, an expert in relational neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology, the author of Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors: Brain-Body-Sensory Strategies that Really Work and the host of the podcast The Baffling Behavior Show. As a psychologist, Robyn has always been passionate about working with those kids who have more tricky or extreme behaviors, and she does that by harnessing the power of neuroscience. Through her work with families, she decodes the latest brain science into easy-to-understand principles and metaphors to help parents become an expert in their child's behavior. During this episode, Robyn and I explore the core issues underlying nearly all struggles in children ? dysregulation, disconnection, or feeling unsafe ? and how understanding the brain's operation in either connection mode or protection mode can transform our approach to parenting. We also touched upon Robyn?s metaphors for the three brain states: the owl (calm), the watchdog (vigilant), and the possum (withdrawn), which can help us better understand and respond to our children's needs. I have a hunch many of you will resonate with Robyn?s experience of feeling like she wasn?t doing enough for the kids she was working with, or that it was her fault they continued to struggle. I know I did. And I also find the reminder that it takes time to figure out how to best support our kids, and ourselves, empowering and optimistic. I hope you feel the same after listening to this episode!   About Robyn Gobbel Robyn Gobbel, MSW, loves coffee, P!NK, and everything about the brain. Once (recently!) her teenager went ballistic on her for getting ANOTHER (glitter!) coffee mug in the mail.Robyn loves cultivating deep, resonant connections with anyone who is up for it, and is especially fond of all the grown-ups in the world who love and care for kids impacted by trauma- helpers, healers, educators, and parents. Her favorite thing ever (besides glittery coffee mugs) is teaching anyone who will listen to harness the power of neuroscience.What would change in the world if we could all do that? To see, be with, feel, and deeply know each other?and ourselves. Robyn thinks everything could change. You can get your hands on all sorts of free resources at her website, including her podcast, The Baffling Behavior Show. Robyn is the author of Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors: Brain-Body-Sensory Strategies that Really Work.   Things you'll learn What relational neuroscience and interpersonal neurobiology is Why maladaptive behaviors are in fact adaptive responses to specific environments or experiences What underlies nearly all struggles in children ? dysregulation, disconnection, or feeling unsafe How the brain operates in either connection mode or protection mode Why Robyn created the metaphors for the 3 brain states: owl (calm), watchdog (vigilant), and possum (withdrawn) How and why caring for our own regulated state helps us better support others   Resources mentioned Free resources on Robyn Gobbel?s website Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors: Brain-Body-Sensory Strategies That Really Work by Robyn Gobbel The Baffling Behavior Show (Robyn?s podcast) Being With (Robyn?s training program for professionals who work with parents The Club (Robyn?s online community for parents) Interpersonal Neurobiology, explained by Dr. Dan Siegel Bonnie Badenoch Dr. Dan Siegel Dr. Tina Payne Bryson Dr. Allan Schore One Child: The True Story of a Tormented Six-Year-Old and the Brilliant Teacher Who Reached Out by Torey Hayden Dr. Stephen Porges Dr. Bruce Perry Dr. Mona Delahooke   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Licensed marriage and family therapist, parent coach, and speaker Debbie Steinberg Kuntz )Bright & Quirky) walks us through a 6-step strategy that parents can employ to help their child thrive that fits the unique way they are wired. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The movement surrounding neurodivergence has evolved so much since I started Tilt Parenting, which I launched as ?revolution for differently wired kids? back in 2016. I see changes everywhere ? in the language we use, the parenting discussions we have, the deeper understanding of diagnostic criteria for things like autism and ADHD, the adaptations some companies are making to support their neurodivergent employees. A few months ago, I grabbed a coffee with my friend Marcus Soutra, who until recently was the co-founder and president of Eye to Eye, a national organization dedicated to enhancing the educational journey and outcomes of neurodiverse youth, and we got into a deep conversation about all of these changes, and we thought, hey, why not have this conversation for the podcast to explore it further for the Tilt community. So here we are. So that?s what this episode is. A thoughtful look at things like how the language and identity within the neurodiversity community has shifted, why community is a cornerstone of the movement, the ways privilege and access impacts a student?s ability to fully embrace neurodivergence, the potential pros and cons of neurodiversity content on social media apps like TikTok, self-identifying versus formal diagnoses, generational differences in experience, how we can help advance the movement in our everyday lives, and much more.   About Marcus Soutra Marcus began his professional journey as a public school teacher before immersing himself in the grassroots movement of Eye to Eye and ultimately running it for nearly twenty years. Drawing from his experiences as both an educator and an individual with dyslexia and ADHD, Marcus deeply understands the challenges faced by students and teachers in navigating the educational landscape. His commitment to dismantling barriers and fostering confidence among diverse learners is evident in his work and advocacy efforts. Marcus has just embarked on a new venture with For The Good Consulting, where he leverages his expertise, network, and personal journey to support other organizations in scaling their missions.   Things you'll learn How the language and identity within the neurodiversity movement has evolved towards embracing neurodivergence Why community is a cornerstone of the neurodiversity movement How privilege impacts the ability to embrace neurodivergence, particularly regarding access to resources Where stigma surrounding neurodivergence persists, and how individuals are challenging stereotypes Why early identification and support is crucial for the success of neurodivergent individuals in school and beyond How parents can effectively advocate by supporting their child's self-advocacy and building supportive communities   Resources mentioned For the Good Consulting (Marcus Soutra?s website) Marcus Soutra on LinkedIn Email Marcus Eye to Eye website Rise Act Judy Singer Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman Understood Dr. Mel Houser and All Brains Belong   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Author and former NY Times Motherlode editor KJ Dell'Antonia talks about her book "How To Be a Happier Parent" and what she learned about how parents can bring more happiness into their daily lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices