Shining With ADHD by The Childhood Collective

ADHD medication and brain development is a topic that raises a lot of big questions for parents. In part 1 of our medication series, we explore what the research says about whether stimulant medication may support healthy brain development in childhood, and what can happen when ADHD symptoms go unsupported over time. If you’ve ever wondered whether medication could help your child in ways that go...

ADHD and screen time can be one of the most challenging topics for families to navigate. In this episode, executive function coach Mike McLeod shares the signs that screens may be interfering with your child's independence, motivation, and executive function development. We also discuss how patterns of parent attention can unintentionally reinforce challenging behaviors and what families can d...

Let’s talk about bedwetting and ADHD. Many parents worry that their child should have outgrown bedwetting by now, but nighttime accidents are often linked to factors beyond a child's control. In this episode, we unpack the strong connection between ADHD and bedwetting, explain why it happens, and when additional medical may be needed. We also share practical tools that can support success at h...

Traveling with ADHD kids can feel like a mix of magical memories, unexpected meltdowns, forgotten chargers, and “why did we think this was a good idea?” moments. In this episode, podcast host and mom Jessica Shaw shares honest stories and practical strategies for traveling with ADHD kids with a little less stress and a lot less pressure. We talk about managing expectations, handling overwhelm, pre...

Summer can be a powerful time to help kids with ADHD feel capable, confident, and useful, not just “kept busy.” In this episode of Shining with ADHD , we are diving into real-life ideas to help your child see themselves as capable contributors. This episode is for parents who want their child to end the summer feeling proud of what they can do, not defeated by another set of expectations or 1,000...

ADHD mom support can feel hard to find, especially when you’re overwhelmed and it seems like no one else "gets it". In this deep episode, we’re talking with Patricia Sung from Motherhood in ADHD about why so many moms feel isolated and what *actually* helps you start building real connection. Patricia shares honest insights about putting yourself out there, even when it feels uncomfortable...

Early signs of ADHD can show up long before a formal diagnosis, leaving many parents wondering what’s typical and what might need more support. In this episode, we talk through common early challenges like frequent tantrums, sleep struggles, and difficulties across home and school, and how they may connect to ADHD. We also walk through what to do if your child is too young for a diagnosis or you’r...

ADHD sensory issues in kids can show up in everyday moments like getting dressed or sitting down to eat, which can leave parents feeling stuck and confused. In this episode, we’re joined by occupational therapist Madeha Ayub to break down what’s really going on with food and clothing challenges in a way that actually makes sense. She helps us understand the “why” behind these struggles so we can r...

If you’ve already done the meetings, asked for evaluations, followed the usual steps, and still feel like you’re hitting a wall, this episode is for you. ADHD school advocacy can feel exhausting and emotional when you’re trying so hard to get your child the support they need. As professionals (and moms) who have guided hundreds of families through complex school situations, we’re sharing what we’v...

ADHD in middle school can feel like the "perfect storm." If you’re navigating this season and wondering why homework, organization, and the fight for independence suddenly feel harder, this episode is for you. We’re joined by executive function expert Jessi Dall, former teacher and owner of Sophos Academics, to share practical, realistic strategies that actually help. You’ll walk away with...

ADHD and sports can be an amazing opportunity for confidence and connection, but they can also bring big emotions, frustration, and a lot of tough parenting decisions. In this listener Q&A episode, we answer your questions about ADHD and sports, including how to support your child when they lose, when quitting might actually be the right choice, and whether to talk to the coach about an ADHD d...

We are talking with Penny Williams, host of the Beautifully Complex podcast, about ADHD and self-esteem. Penny vulnerably shares how her own social anxiety once made her overly critical, driven by a need for her kids to look “put together” as a reflection of her. We explore how letting go of others’ opinions can be a powerful turning point, especially for parents raising kids with ADHD and autism....

What if building executive function didn’t have to mean adding more to your already-full plate? In this episode, we are sharing five easy ways to boost your child’s executive function… just by doing everyday things you’re probably already doing! From planning a family night, to baking together, or packing for a trip, these real-life moments are packed with opportunities to build skills like planni...

What does ADHD look like in a real classroom, and how can parents and teachers work together to help kids thrive? In this episode, we’re joined by Kristina Manning, a former general education teacher who shares TONS of practical, real-life strategies she has used to support students with ADHD. Kristina gives several whole-class ideas like morning meetings and communication boxes, as well as more i...

Amidst the busy holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in to-do lists and chaos. This special holiday episode is a chance for kids (and their grown-ups!) to slow down and focus on what really matters: kindness and gratitude. Together, you’ll learn how small acts of kindness and moments of gratitude can help our brains feel calm and connected. After listening, take a few minutes to chat about t...

Parenting twice exceptional (2e) kids with ADHD comes with unique challenges and incredible strengths. In this episode, gifted education specialist Chris Wiebe shares practical tips for supporting 2e children, from leaning into their strengths to finding mentors they can connect with. Chris describes how parents can help twice exceptional kids thrive at school and at home. This episode is packed w...

Deciding whether to pursue an ADHD diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Parents often wonder if the label will change how teachers see their child, or worry that it might affect their child’s self-esteem. We are talking through what a diagnosis really means, how it can open doors to support, and when it might make sense to wait a little while. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the “should we or s...

In this practical and compassionate episode, we sit down with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish, a psychologist and marriage therapist, to talk about the unique dynamics ADHD can bring to relationships. Tracy shares compassionate and practical advice for breaking out of unhealthy patterns, improving communication, and building stronger connections. Whether you’re navigating ADHD yourself or parenting alongside...

Setting limits with kids who have ADHD can feel tricky... especially when emotions are high or siblings are involved. In this audience Q&A episode, we’re answering your real-life questions about holding boundaries with calm, confidence, and compassion. This episode will give you tools to hold the boundary without getting stuck in a negotiation or battle! MEET OUR TEAM We are Lori, Mallory, and...

If it feels like you and your child are stuck in the same argument on repeat, you’re not alone. Many of us find ourselves caught in the “conflict loop," or a cycle of arguing, negotiating, and giving in that leaves everyone frustrated. In this episode, we break down what the conflict loop looks like and how parents can avoid getting pulled into endless back-and-forths. With a few intentional s...

Parenting teens is no small feat, and when ADHD is part of the picture, the challenges (and emotions!) can feel even bigger. In this conversation with Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart, author of  Love the Teen You Have , we talk about how parents can stay connected, set healthy boundaries, and truly enjoy their relationship with their teen. Dr. Lockhart shares practical tools and powerful mindset shifts to...

ADHD doesn’t look the same for everyone, and in this episode Lori and Katie open up about their very different journeys to an ADHD diagnosis. We share how our symptoms showed up in childhood, what it looked like as adults, and the twists and turns that finally led us to answers. This is a vulnerable and honest conversation about living with ADHD while also parenting kids who have it. Our hope is t...

Change can be tough for many kids, but for children with ADHD, it can feel especially overwhelming. From big shifts like moving to a new school to small changes like switching restaurants at the last minute, these moments often spark resistance and stress (and BIG emotions!). In this episode, we share personal stories and practical tips to make change easier for both you AND your child. MEET OUR T...

We can’t believe it— Shining with ADHD  is celebrating 100 episodes. Over the past few years, we’ve had incredible conversations with experts, connected with amazing ADHD parents, and learned so much from  you , our listeners. Today, we are celebrating and reflecting on five powerful lessons we’ve gained from our community—because parenting a child with ADHD is a journey, and we’re in it together....

If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at the phrase “don’t forget to take care of yourself,” this episode is for you. We’re joined by Monica Packer from the  About Progress  podcast to talk about what self-care *really* looks like when you're raising neurodivergent kids. Monica helps us move beyond bubble baths and into daily practices that actually help us feel more grounded, connected, and calm. W...