Robyn L. Goldberg, an author specializing in eating disorders, joins the conversation to discuss this critical mental health issue affecting millions. She debunks the myth that eating disorders are solely about food, emphasizing their emotional and psychological dimensions. Robyn highlights alarming statistics and the link between ADHD and these struggles, particularly in girls. Parents are offered vital advice, including recognizing red flags and fostering supportive communication. Robyn also touches on the impact of diet culture and shares her resources for caregivers.

Sara Langley, an expert in Nutritional Psychiatry, dives into the fascinating relationship between diet and ADHD. She discusses how dietary choices impact mood and behavior, emphasizing the importance of avoiding synthetic additives and considering supplements like omega-3s and probiotics. Sara highlights the gut-brain connection, revealing how gut health can influence ADHD symptoms. She also offers practical tips for parents to make manageable dietary changes, reinforcing the idea that nutrition, while not a cure, plays a crucial role in ADHD management.

Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, a pioneering mental health expert and founder of Neurotastic™ Brain Formulas, shares groundbreaking insights on low-demand parenting for neurodivergent youth. She discusses how this approach alleviates stress for both parents and children, fostering emotional growth and flexibility. Dr. Roseann emphasizes self-regulation techniques and co-regulation strategies, enhancing family dynamics and promoting cooperation. The conversation highlights community support and valuable resources to empower caregivers in creating nurturing environments.

Explore the urgent issue of loneliness among children and adolescents, especially those with learning differences. Discover how loneliness impacts emotional well-being and functioning. The podcast reveals that our brains are hardwired for connection, highlighting loneliness as a health crisis, akin to the dangers of smoking. Social media’s role is examined as both a connector and a divider. Learn strategies to create supportive environments that foster deeper social connections and enhance mental health for all students.

Welcome to the 200th episode of the Diverse Thinking Different Learning Podcast! I am so excited to celebrate this milestone with you. This episode is a celebration and a look back on some of the most memorable and impactful episodes along this 200 episode journey.  We’ve got some really great updates and surprises coming soon! Be sure to check out past episodes that highlight the expertise and support in our communities. Thank you for your constant support! Please consider leaving a review and rating wherever you listen to the podcast. Let’s dive into some of our most downloaded episodes. Show Notes: [1:29] - Number 10: Unlocking Potential: A Dyslexia Journey with Rosalin Abigail Kyere-Nartey is an episode about the guest’s personal experiences with dyslexia as a student in Ghana. [2:18] - Number 9: Slow Processing Speed with Dr. Ellen Braaten resonated with so many parents and educators about an often misunderstood issue. [3:04] - Number 8: Your Child’s Anxiety: When to Worry with Dr. John Piacentini helps parents differentiate between typical worries and more serious anxiety issues. [4:03] - Number 7: How to Develop Social Thinking Skills with Michelle Garcie Winner highlights the guest’s practical approach to social cognition. [4:52] - Number 6: Turning Kids’ Passions and Enthusiasms Into Superpowers with Dr. Barry Prizant reminds us of every child’s potential and superpowers. [5:40] - Number 5: Key Principles for Raising a Child with ADHD features Dr. Russell Barkley’s expertise and a roadmap for parents. [6:23] - Number 4: Straight Talk About ADHD in Girls with Dr. Stephen Hinshaw has been a game-changer for parents. [7:15] - Number 3: Overcoming Dyslexia and Addressing the Reading Crisis with Dr. Sally Shaywitz is an episode with a pioneer whose work and dedication has inspired many to take action. [8:09] - Number 2: A Non-Medication Treatment for Children with ADHD with Dr. Sandra Loo gives parents hope and alternative support for their children. [9:13] - Number 1: Helping Kids Understand Their Amazing Brains with Dr. Liz Angoff has empowered many to embrace their differences and recognize their strengths. Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses with LIVE AMA Sessions The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.  

Welcome to today’s episode, where we’re exploring the timely topic of inclusive education. As the new school year begins, many parents and educators are thinking about how to create learning environments that truly support all children, regardless of their abilities. Whether you’ve already made decisions for your child’s education or are still weighing your options, this episode will provide valuable insights.  Our guest, Sharon Lowery, is a pioneer in inclusive special education. She has developed a program that welcomes students of all abilities, with a focus on those who learn and think differently. Sharon’s approach emphasizes the importance of meeting social-emotional needs and fostering an environment where every child can thrive.  In this conversation, Sharon shares what an inclusive academic setting looks like, how typically developing students and neurodiverse students can benefit from learning together, and why developing emotional intelligence is crucial in a child’s education. We’ll also address some common concerns parents have about balancing the needs of all students in an inclusive classroom. Join us as we discuss how inclusive education can create a more supportive and enriching experience for every student.   Show Notes: [2:30] - Sharon describes what a fully inclusive academic environment looks like. All children with all academic abilities are welcome. [3:23] - The program Sharon has developed does put a focus on children who learn and think differently, but all students are included. [4:46] - The program is a therapeutic program that meets the needs of all the children who participate. [6:03] - Initially, Sharon was trained in ABA practices and saw benefits, but then began working with Dr. Stanley Greenspan and the DIR/Floortime Model. [7:20] - By understanding the developmental milestones and social emotional development, we can be inclusive of students of all abilities and meet their needs. [8:14] - Sharon shares the differences between a traditional setting and an inclusive environment. [10:07] - Through this model, developing emotional intelligence is important. [12:38] - Children learn from each other. Typically developing students can model for neurodivergent students. [14:53] - We want to build an understanding of differences. As parents, we want our children to be kind and loving. [16:23] - The gifted population also really benefits from an inclusive environment. [19:01] - Sharon describes a scenario that proved the benefits of meeting social-emotional needs in an inclusive environment. [22:48] - A concern some parents have is that the attention needed for neurodiverse students will take away from the needs of the typically developing students. [26:31] - Being inclusive also means being intentional. [29:06] - Sharon describes the start of a school year and what a day might look like in the Smart Start program. [33:21] - Family tours really help ease the minds of parents of neurodiverse children. [35:24] - The small environment gives students an opportunity for a rich and focused learning experience.   About Our Guest: Sharon Lowery holds a BA in Psychology from UCLA and an MA in Psychology from CSULA. She has advanced post-graduate certification as an Expert Trainer in DIR/Floortime and is a member of the ICDL Faculty, having been trained by Dr. Stanley Greenspan, the creator of the DIR/Floortime Model. In 1992, she founded the SmartStart Developmental Learning Center, where she has served as Executive Director ever since. Sharon is a recognized expert in Special Education, specializing in a Developmental Model, Inclusive Special Education, and Relationship-Based and Sensory-Based Education, all through 5th grade. Additionally, she is a Senior Level ABA Therapist, having been trained by Dr. Ivar Lovaas, the founder of Behavior Modification/ABA for use with ASD.   Connect with Our Guest: Email: sharon@smartstartschool.com Smart Start School Website   Links and Related Resources: Episode 192: Reimagining Education for All Students with Sylvia Barreto Benites Episode 189: The Private School Option for Kids with Learning Differences with Collette Bowers Zinn Episode 164: 5 Keys to Productive IEPs with April Rehrig   Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses with LIVE AMA Sessions   The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.  

Can you believe that it is almost time to go back to school? This time of year can be stressful for students and parents, especially when there’s a history of challenges with learning and transitions. Today’s guests, Gabrielle Hennings and Zoe Hemenway, bring their combined experience in education, specializing in supporting neurodiverse learners, to the conversation about preparing our students for this sometimes-exciting, sometimes-stressful transition. In this episode, Gabrielle and Zoe share practical strategies to ease into the first days of a new school year. They’ll discuss the importance of starting routines now, rather than waiting until the first day of school. Key tips include establishing morning routines with visual reminders and setting predictable schedules to reduce anxiety. We’ll also cover how to gradually adjust sleep schedules and find the right planners or checklists for your unique learner. Additionally, Gabrielle and Zoe will emphasize the importance of focusing on students’ strengths and using the new school year as an opportunity for a fresh start.  Whether you’re a parent or educator, this episode offers valuable insights to help neurodiverse learners thrive in the upcoming school year.   Show Notes: [2:54] - Start preparing now. Don’t wait till the first day of school to start a routine. [4:29] - To help with a morning routine, Gabrielle and Zoe suggest using visual reminders. [6:04] - Starting the day with a sense of predictability helps set neurodiverse students up for a smoother day and can reduce stress and anxiety. [8:35] - Begin by setting alarms earlier every day until students are accustomed to waking up earlier. Place the visual reminders someplace they can see often. [9:45] - Not all planners and checklists work for everyone. Find one that works for you. [12:48] - Using a planner for fewer tasks in the summer is a great idea to maintain the responsibility and accountability before the stakes are higher during the school year. [14:05] - If students set a goal for themselves, it is always an important and meaningful goal. [16:24] - Consider previous school year’s reports and grades and help set achievable goals. [17:51] - No matter the plan or goals, executive functioning needs to be a focus. [20:14] - Students need to be given the tools to realize their capabilities. [22:17] - We need to also be mindful of implementing an afternoon routine. [25:05] - Strategies that Gabrielle and Zoe have written are designed to be understandable and digestible by students. This is important for educators to remember. [27:20] - Although there are things that are difficult, we need to remind our students of their strengths. [28:53] - This is every student’s opportunity for a brand new start. What do they want their fresh start to look like? [32:09] - Don’t let the bumps in the road stop you from sticking with things.   About Our Guests: Gabrielle Hennings and Zoe Hemenway bring a combined dedication of 14 years to the realm of education, shaping young minds for a brighter future. Their journey has been marked by a deep commitment to understanding and appreciating neurodiverse learners, valuing the richness that diverse learning styles bring to the educational landscape. In their extensive experience, Gabrielle and Zoe have cultivated a profound insight into the unique needs of neurodiverse learners. They firmly believe in the power of meeting each learner at their individual starting point, recognizing that true educational growth happens when tailored to individual potential. Together, Gabrielle and Zoe bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Their commitment to recognizing and nurturing the potential in every student defines the ethos of their educational approach. Join them as they embark on a journey of personalized learning, where diversity is celebrated, and every student has the opportunity to blossom.   Connect with Our Guests: ChildNEXUS Provider Profile Email: admin@hhlearningcenter.com HH Learning Center Website   Links and Related Resources: Downloadable Planner Episode 147: 5 Tips to Help Students Transition Back to School   Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses with LIVE AMA Sessions   The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.  

Welcome back, listeners, to Diverse Thinking Different Learning! In this episode, we’re having a conversation with Dr. Sarah Powell, a distinguished professor at the University of Texas at Austin and Associate Director of the Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk. Dr. Powell’s expertise in math education sheds light on effective strategies to support students who face challenges with math! The discussion explores the crucial role early math education plays in shaping a student's future academic success, emphasizing that early struggles can lead to long-term difficulties if not addressed properly. Dr. Powell elaborates on how cumulative math skills impact later learning, stressing the importance of early intervention and continuous support throughout a student’s educational journey. Dr. Powell also highlights several best practices for math instruction, including the use of multiple representations to deepen understanding and systematic, explicit teaching methods to ensure mastery of concepts. She also addresses the role of math vocabulary and its significance in helping students grasp mathematical ideas more effectively. Tune in to gain valuable insights into how targeted interventions and effective teaching strategies can make a significant difference in students' math achievements. If you are an educator yourself seeking to enhance your math instruction or perhaps a parent looking to support your child's learning, this episode of the show is sure to offer practical advice and actionable strategies to help all students excel in math! Show Notes: [3:14] - Early math performance predicts future success, making early intervention important for long-term achievement. [6:06] - Dr. Powell points out how schools often prioritize reading over math, but early math interventions are just as important. [9:01] - Dr. Powell argues that teaching math vocabulary is essential for understanding concepts and participating effectively in the classroom. [11:59] - Difficulties in math may be linked to language issues, including reading, writing, and speaking. [13:04] - Using multiple representations, like manipulatives and drawings, can help students better understand math concepts. [15:24] - Dr. Powel feels that students should understand math deeply by using various representations, not just by memorizing symbols. [18:55] - Identifying common mistakes better helps target instruction than addressing isolated mistakes. [20:02] - Dr. Powell argues that effective math learning involves modeling, repeated practice, and building fluency through both speed and accuracy. [23:53] - Incorporating short fluency practices into the school day enhances math skills and helps reduce cognitive overload. [25:34] - Older students should develop fluency to avoid using basic strategies like tick marks, which can lead to mistakes. [26:55] - Effective strategies for solving word problems include the U.P.S. check method and recognizing common problem types. [31:16] - Dr. Powell explains how parents can help with word problems by discussing the problem and identifying consistent frameworks. [32:43] - Parents can also support math learning through discussions, games, and incorporating math into daily activities. [35:25] - Engaging in practical math activities, like measuring ingredients, makes math fun and relevant! [38:57] - For additional support, resources include emailing Dr. Powell as well as videos on representations, a free math course, and teacher-friendly materials! About Our Guest: Dr. Sarah R. Powell is a Professor in the College of Education at The University of Texas at Austin and Associate Director of the Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk. Her research, teaching, and service focus on mathematics, particularly for students who experience mathematics differently. Dr. Powell is currently Principal Investigator (PI) of an Institute of Education Sciences (IES) efficacy grant (RAAMPS) related to word-problem solving at Grade 4. Dr. Powell is also PI of SPIRAL, an IES grant which works collaboratively with Grade 4 and 5 teachers who provide mathematics instruction to students with mathematics difficulty. Dr. Powell is Co-PI of STAIR 2.0 (funded by IES) in which the team works with middle school special education math teachers and SCALE (funded by the US Department of Education) in which the team is replicating a fraction intervention in Grades 4-8. Dr. Powell collaborates on Math Words, an IES development grant about mathematics vocabulary. She also assists with a word-problem project funded as a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant to Querium. To help create the next generation of researchers focused on mathematics, Dr. Powell is PI of a doctoral leadership grant (LIME) funded by Office of Special Education Programs. Dr. Powell was awarded the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) in 2019. Dr. Powell understands all of these efforts are a team effort, and she thanks her project leads, graduate students, research assistants, and research collaborators as well as the teachers and students who participate in these projects. Links and Related Resources: ChildNEXUS - “Important Components of Effective Math Intervention” Diverse Thinking Diverse Learning - “Ep. 60: A Multisensory Intervention for Kids Who Struggle with Math with Adrianne Meldrum” Diverse Thinking Diverse Learning - “Ep. 122: Accommodations for Students Who Struggle with Math with Adrianne Meldrum” “Intensive Intervention in Mathematics Course Content” “Specialized Math Intervention to Reach All Learners” “Pirate Math Equation Quest” Texas SPED Support - “Instructional Routines for Mathematics Intervention” YouTube - Project STAIR Connect with Dr. Sarah Powell: The University of Texas at Austin College of Education - Dr. Sarah Powell Email: srpowell@utexas.edu  Phone: 15124756556 Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses for Better Understanding and Supporting Your Child with ADHD, Dyslexia & Anxiety The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.  

Dr. Megan Helmen, a psychologist passionate about guiding parents on giftedness and autism, dives into the complexities of identifying neurodivergence in children. She discusses how gifted kids may mask autistic traits, leading to missed diagnoses. The conversation highlights the importance of tailored support systems and the need for a compassionate understanding of their unique strengths and challenges. Dr. Helmen emphasizes that both educators and parents must adapt their approaches to create inclusive environments, fostering empathy and informed support for these often misunderstood children.

Today, we are diving into an important and deeply personal topic: navigating autism and the parent-child relationship when a child is on the spectrum. To help us explore this, we have the incredible father-son duo, Barry and Jake Freeman, joining us. Barry and Jake are here to share their unique perspective on living and thriving with autism as a family. Their journey is not only inspiring but also offers valuable insights and a refreshing outlook for those who are on a similar path. In this episode, you’ll hear firsthand experiences from Barry and Jake. They’ll discuss the challenges and triumphs they’ve encountered along the way - from switching schools and navigating new environments to advocating for services and celebrating small successes.  Their story is one of resilience, growth, and unwavering support. Jake will share his experiences with different educational settings and offer advice to others who might be hesitant to try new things. His journey through college, where he learned crucial life skills and embraced independent living, is particularly inspiring. Barry will talk about the importance of networking, asking questions, and connecting with other parents.  We’ll also hear about the incredible bond between Barry and Jake, and how this relationship has helped them navigate the ups and downs of autism. Barry’s touching reading of the poem "Welcome to Holland" serves as a powerful reminder to love the journey you’re on, no matter how different it may be from what you expected. Show Notes: [2:20] - It is helpful to hear from people who are living similar experiences. [3:38] - Jake shares the differences he experienced when switching schools. [4:32] - Barry describes some of Jake’s qualities and the challenges he experiences as someone on the autism spectrum. [6:47] - Jake offers his advice to those who struggle with trying new things that seem frightening at first. [8:44] - The college that Jake attended allowed him to learn life skills with an emphasis on independent living. [10:10] - Networking is crucial. Ask a lot of questions and connect with other parents. [11:35] - When asked about what he wishes he knew in the earlier days, Barry says he should have been more aggressive in advocating for services. [14:33] - Documentation is not only helpful but is crucial in advocating for services. [16:23] - Jake shares what his job and career goals are and what he is currently doing to volunteer and stay active in the community. [18:42] - No test or assessment will ever tell you what your child will be able to accomplish. [19:48] - Every child needs someone in their corner, advocating for their needs. [21:13] - Keeping the end goal in mind is great, we have to celebrate the little steps and successes along the way. [22:15] - Barry shares a powerful poem called Welcome to Holland that proves the importance of loving the journey you’re on. About Our Guests: Jake Freeman: Jake Freeman embraces life without letting labels define him, despite being told at a young age that he is on the spectrum. He lives at home with his parents, and his younger sister, Julia. Jake enjoys reading a variety of books, watching horror, comedy, and action movies, and playing board games and card games with friends. He has participated in basketball, softball, and bowling through the Special Olympics, recently winning a basketball tournament and gearing up for a new bowling season. Jake's educational journey includes switching to Village Glen in the 6th grade, where he found a supportive environment with friends and teachers he connected with. He later attended a college near Bakersfield, CA, which focused on independent living skills such as budgeting, public transportation, and job skills. While Jake currently lives with his parents, he possesses the skills to live independently, having navigated various roommate situations in the past. His advice to younger individuals on the Spectrum is to not be afraid to put themselves out there and try new things. Barry Freeman: Barry Freeman and his wife Karen have two children, Jake and Julia. Barry works in the entertainment industry as a film ratings and broadcast standards consultant. He served on the Motion Picture Association’s ratings board for a decade and has spent the past 12 years working independently with film producers to help them secure desired ratings (G, PG, PG-13, etc.). Barry has also contracted with companies such as Netflix, CBS, Sony Pictures, and the Game Show Network. In his personal life, Barry enjoys long-distance running, working out, following Boston sports teams, and spending time with his family and friends. He is also a foodie. Karen was the primary advocate for Jake during his younger years, a role Barry has taken on in recent years. Barry was Jake’s soccer coach for the “VIP program” before Jake went to college, and he looks forward to volunteering again in the Autism community upon retirement.  Connect with Barry and Jake: Email: barry@bfreemanmrc.com  Links and Related Resources: Episode 168: 5 Tips for Supporting Neurodivergent Youth Episode 194: What is Neurodiversity-Affirming Care? with Kody Harms Episode 185: Late Diagnosis: Why Did I Get Missed? with Dr. Monica Blied Episode 78: Supporting Youth with Autism and ADHD with Holly Blanc Moses Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses with LIVE AMA Sessions The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.