Autistic and ADHD Kids Parenting Strategies: Every Brain is Different

While it's natural for parents to focus more on their neurodivergent children due to their unique needs, it's equally important to support their non-neurodivergent children and nurture sibling relationships. Join Samantha and Lauren as they explore how to manage neurodivergent sibling dynamics. By addressing the needs of all their children, parents can strengthen family bonds and ensure everyone f...

People with disabilities want to feel included and be an active part of their communities. Thankfully, recreational therapists are making this a reality! Join Samantha as she chats with Jasmine Mathew about her adaptive dance company, which welcomes individuals of all abilities. This initiative empowers everyone, including people with disabilities, to enhance their self-esteem and physical well-be...

Parents are the primary advocates for their neurodivergent children, and it's essential for them to know and understand their child's unique needs truly! In this episode, Samantha sits down with Shannon Thornton to discuss effective strategies for raising children with ADHD. By knowing their child better and observing the best methods, they can become their child's most significant advocate and al...

For generations, discussing sex within the family, especially with children, has been considered taboo. This pattern needs to be broken! Join Samantha as she speaks with Lonelle Madsen about the importance of talking to your children about sexual relationships. Parents need to recognize the importance of being the primary source of information on this topic! Stay tuned!   Here's what to expect on...

Samantha and Lauren share resources for back to school. They emphasize the importance of communication with teachers, routines at home, fostering independence, and creating supportive environments. Stay tuned!   Here's what to expect on the podcast: How can open communication between parents and teachers benefit a neurodivergent child? Create a supportive environment tailored to your child's uniqu...

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Gilly Kahn, a clinical psychologist specializing in neurodiversity and emotion regulation. Dr. Kahn shares her personal journey with ADHD, challenges of diagnosis, and the importance of understanding the emotional component of ADHD in women. Stay tuned for valuable insights for parents and individuals navigating neurodiversity!   Here's what to expect on the podca...

Navigating the journey of parenting a teenager with autism can be a uniquely challenging experience! Samantha's conversation with Melissa Berger sheds light on this intricate path, offering valuable insights for those embarking on this journey. Parenting a neurodivergent teenager is indeed a next-level experience, but with the appropriate resources, support, and mindset, it can also be immensely r...

Understanding and tailoring each child's unique learning style is crucial for their development, but teachers and parents often overlook it! Join Samantha as she engages in a conversation with Elisabeth Stitt about various learning strategies that can be employed to cater to children's diverse needs. Taking the time to understand and identify what your child needs to succeed is essential! Stay tun...

There are many ways to support neurodivergent kids, and one practical but often forgotten approach is meeting them where they are! Join Samantha as she speaks with Dr. Matthew Zakreski about this method, which focuses on accepting the child as they are and tailoring the support they receive to achieve desired outcomes. This approach is effective, and there is always time for parents to use it! Sta...

In this episode, Samantha and Lauren will explore Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), a profile on the autism spectrum marked by extreme anxiety related to everyday demands. Due to a lack of recognition for PDA, it is crucial for parents to learn the appropriate parenting techniques for children with this condition! Stay tuned!   Here's what to expect on the podcast: Some typical behaviors exhibi...

Samantha speaks with Scottland Little about Codeman, an innovative project promoting acceptance and support for individuals with autism. Scottland's journey is inspiring; driven by empathy, he saw Codeman as a way to empower those with autism to thrive and reach their full potential! Stay tuned!   Here's what to expect on the podcast: Scottland emphasizes acceptance and love rather than fixing aut...

Navigating parenthood when your child is neurodivergent can be an overwhelming journey, often leaving parents feeling unprepared and uncertain about how to support their child best! Join Samantha as she speaks with Andrea Pollack about understanding the reasons behind children's behaviors. Andrea's expertise enables parents to achieve lasting results without enduring years of trial and error! Stay...

  As parents, you may employ various methods to aid your children's skill development, but have you considered the potential of video games? Join Samantha as she speaks with Steve Gullans about Skylar's Run. THYNK, the company behind it, empowers individuals to unlock their full potential through gaming! Stay tuned!   Here's what to expect on the podcast: Dr. Gullin's interest in brain science and...

Summer break is just around the corner, and parents often find themselves pondering how to keep their children engaged and happy during these long, sun-filled days. To help parents navigate this period smoothly, Samantha and Lauren share five valuable tips for a calm and enjoyable summer! Stay tuned!   Here's what to expect on the podcast: Five tips on how parents can tailor summer activities to a...

Children often avoid tasks they're given, but some take this to an extreme, strongly resisting any demands. Join Samantha as she talks with Danielle Sullivan about Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and explains its details. Avoidance can show up in various ways, but Danielle helps parents handle PDA in their children with helpful strategies! Stay tuned! Here's what to expect on the podcast: Dani...

No individual, especially those who are neurodivergent, should feel isolated! Join Samantha as she engages in a conversation with Erica Shoop, exploring the profound impact of community. Negotiating the complexities of neurodivergence comes with its own set of obstacles, and Erica is here to guide you in forging connections with a supportive community that will walk alongside you on this journey!...

Here's what to expect on the podcast: Jennifer and her daughter's ADHD diagnosis journey. How do neurodivergent individuals typically handle doom piles? Effective strategies for organizing piles when dealing with an ADHD brain. The potential benefits of a toxin-free home environment. And much more! About Jennifer: Jennifer Becker has been a high-performing leader, not only in the corporate world b...

Here's what to expect on the podcast: Various signs that may indicate a child is neurodivergent. What are the steps involved in seeking professional evaluation for your child? Helpful resources for parents with neurodivergent kids. Katie Beckett's Medicaid Program, how it works, and how to apply. And much more!   Resources: Free PDF- How to get a Diagnosis: https://www.boisemusictherapycompany.com...

Here's what to expect on the podcast: The five love languages dice tool and how it can be incorporated into your daily life. Paul's motivation to develop this innovative tool. Practical tips for introducing the concept of love languages to children and making it a fun and engaging experience. Cultivate a mindset of giving love through actions without expecting reciprocation. And much more!   About...

Here's what to expect on the podcast: How Esther discovered music therapy as a career path. What does a holistic approach to music therapy entail? Esther tailors music therapy techniques to meet the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals. Self-care is essential for therapists and parents to maintain regulation and presence. And much more!   About Esther: Esther Thane, BMT, MTA, AVPT, has speci...

Here's what to expect on the podcast: Some common barriers to effective communication and how can they be overcome. Communication strategies that are effective for neurodivergent individuals. Examples of situations where neurodivergent people see things differently than neurotypical people do. Criteria that individuals should consider when searching for therapists. And much more!   About Nolan: No...

Here's what to expect on the podcast: How does movement contribute to children's ability to regulate their emotions and behaviors? Nan's book series and resources. Why is it important for adults to be present and acknowledge children's feelings? Some practical ways adults can demonstrate self-regulation in daily interactions with children. And much more!   About Nan: Nan is a pediatric occupationa...

Here's what to expect on the podcast: What does true acceptance of individuals with autism entail? Communication strategies in autistic individuals. In what ways can labeling autistic individuals based on functioning levels contribute to stigma and discrimination? Explain autism to neurotypical children in a way that promotes understanding and acceptance. And much more!   Resources: Walk for Autis...

Here's what to expect on the podcast: What are some tailored strategies for the neurodivergent community to improve their organizational skills? Disorganization impacts individuals' daily lives and overall well-being Practical ways to involve your family in maintaining organization within the household Questions to typically ask yourself when organizing to determine what to keep and what to let go...

Here's what to expect on the podcast: Amy's social work journey and what her day-to-day life looks like. How can one become involved in Medicaid services? Understanding Medicaid waitlists and how they work How does an Individualized Education Program (IEP) support neurodivergent children in school? And much more!   About Amy: Amy Taylor is a single mom with Bipolar Disorder, ADHD & Anxiety. She ha...