Diverse Thinking Different Learning

Join the conversation with Jason B. Allen, an advocate for inclusive education, as he discusses empowering black neurodivergent learners. Topics include combating stigma, fostering community partnerships, and empowering families for student success in creating inclusive learning environments.

Phyllis L. Fagell, expert in guiding children through middle school, shares insights on helping kids thrive. Topics include key skills for success, social dynamics, homework struggles, and empowering children for future success.

Exploring the unique characteristics of adolescent brains, including pruning and differences in stress response. Discussing strategies to support neurodivergent youth during the vulnerable teenage years. Emphasizing the importance of inclusive approaches and tailored support for positive outcomes.

Many families struggle knowing what to do when their child or teen suddenly starts failing school and academics or lacks motivation to learn. These challenges can be difficult to navigate as a parent, especially for a parent of a neurodivergent child. Today’s guest has an incredible resource that turns this challenge into an opportunity for parents and families. Dr. Jacqueline Olivier is the founder of Blue Marble Learning Center and she has created an Academic Success Playbook. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all guide. These are personalized and customized guides based on the learning needs of the student and what type of support the parents and families need. Not only that, but these playbooks are interactive and include referrals and even more resources to give parents the information and support they need to help their children thrive. In today’s episode, Jacqueline explains how the playbook works, what she takes into account when customizing them for students, and how impactful they have been for neurodivergent children and their families.   Show Notes: [2:34] - Jacqueline explains what she does in her role at Blue Marble Learning Center. [3:57] - We see the best outcomes when a team of people works together to help the student. [5:06] - The most impactful part of Jacqueline’s work is helping students understand how they learn. [7:15] - Parents don’t have a guide for parenting and helping their children. And for neurodivergent children, they have to help them navigate a world that was not built for them. [8:49] - Many times, parents see the results of an evaluation and they think the diagnosis is the golden ticket. Jacqueline explains this gap. [11:20] - What does a success playbook look like? Jacqueline designs these for parents after a diagnosis. It is an individualized and interactive document. [13:55] - Jacqueline describes a scenario with a student who benefited by having a playbook. [17:50] - Every parent’s situation is different. Some will be able to dive into understanding their diagnosis and some will not be able to. The playbook is customized per family. [22:35] - The playbook also gives parents and families an awareness and understanding of what to expect in the school environment and personalized strategies. [26:06] - Jacqueline creates a personalized playbook and provides more resources and referrals for parents and families. [31:02] - When Jacqueline began offering academic playbooks, she learned just how needed this resource is. About Our Guest: Dr. Jacqueline Olivier is the founder of Blue Marble Learning Center. She has an extensive background in educational therapy, working with neurodivergent students, curriculum design, teaching, consulting, instructional leadership, and senior administration in independent and start-up schools. Jacqueline’s areas of expertise include working with children and teens who have been diagnosed with dyslexia, ADHD, Asperger’s, language-based learning disabilities, test-taking anxiety, academic anxiety, dyscalculia, processing disorders, and executive functioning challenges. She provides academic support in mathematics, writing, entrance exams (ISEE, SAT), college essays, and other subjects.   Connect with Jacqueline Olivier: ChildNEXUS Provider Profile Blue Marble Learning and Consulting Email bluemarblelc@gmail.com   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.

Learn how to support students struggling with writing as Shanna Trombetta, an Educational Therapist, shares insights and practical strategies. She discusses challenges students face, the importance of structure, and ways to empower parents and educators in guiding children through the writing process.

Welcome back to the Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast where we are diving into a topic that is especially important for families raising children and teens who learn and think differently. Today's episode is particularly special as we explore empowering children and teens with ADHD and other learning differences by helping them understand their brains and embrace their unique gifts. I am joined by Drs. Fredriksen and Rothman, pediatric neuropsychologists from Maryland, who bring a wealth of knowledge and insights into this often misunderstood area. They share their journey of writing their recent book Different Thinkers: ADHD, a resource designed specifically for elementary-aged children and their families. We learn about the motivation behind creating this resource and the importance of not keeping diagnoses a secret from children but rather empowering them with knowledge about their developing brains. Throughout our conversation, we discuss the misconceptions surrounding ADHD and other learning differences, and the need to focus on strengths and not limitations. Drs. Fredriksen and Rothman share the struggles that children face in a world not built for different thinkers and offer some strategies for families to celebrate differences.   Show Notes: [1:50] - The book Different Thinkers: ADHD is unique as it is written for elementary-aged children. They didn’t have a resource for families, so they made it themselves. [4:26] - Adults tend to underestimate children and how much they realize that they learn differently. Don’t keep their diagnosis a secret. [6:51] - We need to take the more effective path of demonstrating how a learning difference can be a gift. [8:34] - There are a lot of misconceptions around diagnoses. [10:28] - Attention levels wax and wane for the average neurotypical person, but there is a difference between those experiences and those who have ADHD. [12:30] - Standardized tests and questionnaires are sometimes frowned upon, but they have a helpful purpose. [14:10] - Kids can and should learn that their brains are still developing and may develop differently than their peers. [17:20] - The world was not built for different thinkers. [22:51] - Research shows that children with ADHD receive more negative feedback than their peers. [24:55] - Different Thinkers: ADHD is intended to be a resource for families to talk to their child about a diagnosis. Drs. Rothman and Fredriksen suggest ways to use it. [27:21] - Children can read and listen about the characters in the book who are experiencing ADHD like they are. [30:06] - Celebrating differences is key. [31:31] - The work that neuropsychologists do is important, but it isn’t always accessible to everyone.   About Our Guests: Drs. Fredriksen and Rothman are both pediatric neuropsychologists in Maryland who specialize in comprehensive evaluations for children, adolescents, and young adults with a wide range of conditions that impact learning, behavior, and/or socioemotional functioning, providing families with a road map to support their children. They recently published their first book, Different Thinkers: ADHD, and share an Instagram account (@neuropsychmomdocs). Dr. Fredriksen trained at Princeton University and the University of Massachusetts Boston. She lives with her family in Arlington, Virginia. Dr. Rothman trained at the University of Michigan and Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology. She lives with her family in Washington, D.C.   Connect with Our Guests: Email Dr. Yael Rothman Email Dr. Katia Fredriksen Instagram @neuropsychomomdocs   Links and Related Resources: Episode 25: Raising Differently Wired Kids with Joy and Confidence with Debbie Reber Episode 137: Helping Kids Understand Their Amazing Brains with Dr. Liz Angoff Episode 38: Understanding the Gifted and Twice Exceptional Child with Dr. Nicole Tetreault ALPS Children: A Steep Climb - But Well Worth It!   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.

Did you know that most children with ADHD are given medication, offered some counseling, and nothing else? Today's episode is a game-changer, especially for parents navigating the challenges of ADHD because today’s guest wants to change this. Dr. Hokehe Eko joins us to discuss her unique approach, one that focuses on empowering children with ADHD without solely relying on medication. Dr. Eko believes it's time to shift our focus from merely treating symptoms to understanding the whole child. In our conversation, Dr. Eko shares her insights into how trauma and lifestyle factors impact a child's behavior and cognitive development. Instead of rushing to medication, Dr. Eko advocates for lifestyle and environmental changes that support a child's overall well-being. From nutrition to hydration, she discusses practical steps parents can take to empower their children and create a supportive environment for their growth. You may be surprised by the impact of small lifestyle changes and how they can positively influence a child's behavior and family dynamics. While there’s no “quick fix,” these small incremental changes not only benefit ADHD symptoms but the well-being of the whole family.   Show Notes: [2:21] - Dr. Eko is a pediatrician and a big advocate for empowering our brains. She has a different approach to looking at the whole child. [3:55] - During some training, Dr. Eko had the realization of how things could change. She shares the story of what inspired her approach. [5:55] - Trauma makes changes in the way our brains work and our behavior. [8:30] - You can never just assess symptoms.  [10:50] - Before jumping to medication, Dr. Eko looks at simple lifestyle and environmental changes. [13:03] - If we feed the brain what it needs and what it craves, we are healthier overall. [14:34] - Behaviors are difficult and there isn’t necessarily a “quick fix.” However, lifestyle changes could benefit the overall health of the child more than medication. [17:18] - Dr. Eko discusses the impact of nutrition on behavior. [20:29] - If your child is healthier, the whole family is better overall. [22:10] - Change one thing at a time. All the small changes build up. [23:26] - Dr. Eko shares some suggestions on how to increase the amount of water you and your family drink that also gets the child on board. [26:24] - It is a process. Take it one day at a time and do things as a family. [28:36] - Dr. Eko emphasizes the importance of executive functioning skills and what parents can do to support their children. [31:00] - Have a conversation with your child and explain what is going on. They need to understand as they form their identity. [32:36] - Dr. Eko offers a support group and community and the information can be found on her website. She also shares the details of her recent book.   About Our Guest: Dr. Hokehe Eko is a Mom, Board Certified Pediatrician, TedX Speaker, and CEO of Glow Pediatrics PLLC. She partners with parents of children with ADHD/Autism to address the root causes of their children's behaviors so they GLOW with health from the inside out. She is also CEO of Kits of Hope, a 501 (3) organization, sharing love, hope, and dignity with children in foster care.   Connect with Dr. Hokehe Eko: Brain Power with Dr. Eko Podcast LinkedIn Children’s Love Letters: A Pediatrician’s Guide to How Your Child Spells Love by Hokehe Eko MD, MPH   Links and Related Resources: Episode 149: Supporting Children and Teens’ Mental Health Via Nutrition Episode 169: The Science of Exercise and the Brain with Dr. John Ratey Episode 148: How Sleep Affects Academic Performance and Mood 8 Ways Teenagers Suffer When They Don’t Get Enough Sleep   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.

Renowned child and teen development specialist, Dr. Robyn Silverman, discusses reframing failure as growth opportunities for kids. Emphasizing the importance of creating a safe space for children to take risks and celebrate progress. She guides parents on instilling a growth mindset and resilience in their children by valuing effort over outcomes.

Would you describe your child as passive, quiet around others, uncomfortable in social situations, a child that avoids eye contact, and maybe hesitates to try new things? Does your child excessively rehearse what they want to say or how they want to behave? Some parents may wonder if this is shyness or something more. Is it social anxiety? Today, we’re digging into the topic of both. Is it shyness or social anxiety and how do you know? And what can we do to help? Dr. Fran Walfish is an absolute expert in this field and in our conversation today, she not only offers some clarification on the differences between shyness and social anxiety, but also shares things we can do to support these children better and when to seek professional help and guidance. She is a wealth of knowledge and I am thrilled for you to hear our conversation.   Show Notes: [3:21] - First, shyness is an innate trait. It’s something human beings are born with. A child comes into the world already predisposed with a particular temperament. [4:42] - Shyness can sometimes look like anxiety. There are so many ingredients that shape a person’s personality and behavior. [6:36] - The child should be the one to dictate the comfort level, rather than it being driven by the parent's fear of embarrassment or shame due to the child's shyness. [8:31] - Certain things can lead to social anxiety.  [10:20] - Not all shy people have social anxiety. [12:11] - Well-meaning parents may feel embarrassed or exceedingly worried about a child’s shyness. [14:37] - Selective mutism is a confusing presentation of social anxiety. [16:58] - It is crucial for parents not to pressure kids. It could lead to them withholding even more. [19:12] - The parent who is trying to discern the difference between social anxiety and shyness needs to be non-judgmental. [21:35] - Create some reasonable separation and assure your child that you are there. [23:01] - Just like adults, children want to be seen, acknowledged, validated and accepted - flaws and all. [24:40] - What can parents and teachers do to help children with social anxiety? Dr. Walfish shares some tips. [26:25] - Expect some successes and failures. [31:21] - If parents see their child crying and sobbing in most social situations, it is time to search for a referral.   About Our Guest: Dr. Fran Walfish is a leading child, couples, family, relationship, and sex psychotherapist and author in Beverly Hills, CA who treats celebrity couples, Hollywood’s elite, and LA’s poshest residents. In addition to her thriving private practice, Dr. Walfish was on clinical staff in the Department of Child Psychiatry at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center for 15 years. She was a Beverly Hills school psychologist and served a 4 year-term as Chair of the Board of The Early Childhood Parenting Center founded at Cedars-Sinai, Los Angeles. Dr. Fran was the host and co-star on WE tv series, Sex Box. Dr. Walfish also appeared as an on-camera expert psychotherapist in 15 episodes on The Robert Irvine Show, CW/Tribune Networks. Dr. Walfish is a featured expert in Parents magazine “Ask The Experts'', and formerly in her weekly Q & A in The Beverly Hills Courier. She is an expert contributor to several news outlets and publications.   Dr. Fran’s book, The Self-Aware Parent: Resolving Conflict and Building A Better Bond with Your Child, is represented by William Morris Endeavor Entertainment and published by Palgrave Macmillan/St. Martin’s Press. Simon & Schuster published her original chapter Why Empathy Matters in their all-star psychologists anthology book Tough Love in 2018.  Dr. Walfish has been quoted in NY Bestselling books authored by Arianna Huffington, Randi Zuckerberg, and Josh Shipp.   Connect with Dr. Fran Walfish: DrFranWalfish.com   Links and Related Resources: How Social Anxiety Differs From Shyness and How to Help Your Child Episode 170: Understanding Selective Mutism with Dr. Danielle Cornacchio   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.

If your child is afraid to speak around certain people, like adults or strangers, or in certain situations, like at school, they may be struggling with selective mutism. Selective mutism is an anxiety disorder characterized by an inability to speak in certain settings and to certain people. It is commonly misunderstood as shyness or a child could even be misdiagnosed as having Autism Spectrum Disorder or Oppositional Defiance Disorder. But what exactly is selective mutism and how can we tell the difference?  Today’s guest helps demystify selective mutism and offers a lot of insight into ways we can help children thrive. Dr. Danielle Cornacchio is the newest member of ChildNEXUS! She is a clinical child psychologist specializing in evidence-based treatments for childhood anxiety, OCD, and disruptive behavior disorders. Dr. Cornacchio has particular expertise in behavioral treatment for childhood selective mutism. In this episode, Dr. Cornacchio explains what selective mutism is, but perhaps more importantly, she explains what it is not. She takes the time to describe what treatment for selective mutism might look like and emphasizes the importance of parent education and participation. Listen to learn more about this often misunderstood condition.   Show Notes: [2:27] - Selective mutism is classified as an anxiety disorder. It is a consistent failure to speak in certain situations despite speaking fine in others. [4:03] - Selective mutism is not Autism Spectrum Disorder or Oppositional Defiance Disorder. It is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. [7:13] - Kids with selective mutism will typically speak around their parents and siblings at home but won’t speak at school. [11:24] - Information and research on treatment for selective mutism is very new but Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the most beneficial. [14:04] - Dr. Cornacchio shares some of the ways selective mutism shows up including learning situations where talking is not necessary and something called contamination. [17:58] - Therapy sessions once a week are not enough if parents and family members are not also working with a child at home. [21:14] - It’s human nature to want to protect your children and reduce their stress, but to overcome challenges, children need to step out of their comfort zones. [24:13] - Dr. Cornacchio demonstrates the steps in early therapy sessions with children with selective mutism including behavior descriptions and labeled praise. [26:34] - The type of question that we ask a child who is ready to speak really matters. [28:11] - Giving children ample time to answer a question can be uncomfortable for parents. [29:29] - After 5 seconds of wait time, if the child does not answer, Dr. Cornacchio demonstrates how to rephrase the question and try something different. [31:47] - But what happens if the child still does not answer a question after different strategies? [33:29] - Teachers do not have the luxury of trying questions multiple times and waiting for answers. But there is a Plan B for teachers to not ever give up on a question. [37:37] - It is important to connect with a provider, but it is challenging to find one that treats selective mutism.   About Our Guest: Dr. Cornacchio completed her PhD in Clinical Science in Child and Adolescent Psychology at Florida International University and her predoctoral internship training at the UCLA Semel Institute. She currently serves as a clinical instructor at the UCLA Psychology Department. Dr. Cornacchio founded and currently directs The WaveMind Clinic in Los Angeles, a clinic dedicated to providing specialized care to children and families with a variety of mental health needs, including selective mutism, OCD, and disruptive behavior disorders. She directs a training program for psychology students and postdoctoral trainees learning Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and treatment for childhood selective mutism. Dr. Cornacchio leads training for educators and professionals interested in learning more about how to treat selective mutism. Dr. Cornacchio’s research interests focus on innovative treatment formats for difficult-to-treat child anxiety. She conducted the first randomized controlled trial of an intensive group treatment program for children with selective mutism and is currently co-authoring a manual that’s in press on the delivery of intensive treatment for children with selective mutism.    Connect with Dr. Danielle Cornacchio: WaveMind Clinic Website ChildNEXUS Provider Profile Email: dcornacchio@wavemindclinic.com    Links and Related Resources: Selective Mutism Association website with many resources and a provider database Dr. Steve Kurtz’s Selective Mutism Learning University self-guided course   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.