Today’s guest is Ashley Harding and we’re discussing the importance of students having a sense of belonging in their learning environment. Ashley is a valued member of the ChildNEXUS community and a compassionate advocate for diverse learners. In this episode, Ashley explains how impactful a sense of belonging is to a student. Knowing they hold a significant space somewhere, feeling a sense of connection and safety, and knowing that their educational needs are being met while also getting the support they need are critical keys to the concept of “mattering”. All of these things have long-term outcomes that go far beyond academic mastery and it's important for educators to foster this and value a child’s sense of belonging. This is what is going to help students thrive and reach their full potential. It’s not just about academic mastery. Listen on to find out how students can learn self-efficacy and self-advocacy and how this can change the trajectory of their success.   Show Notes: [2:31] - North Star Academics was founded on three principles: academic mastery, self-efficacy, and parent engagement. [3:38] - In Ashley’s experience, the disconnect for a lot of students is not having a feeling of belonging. [5:37] - Students have ecosystems of their own. How do they feel connected to their school and is there a gap? [7:04] - Ashley describes some of the things they look at when a student begins with North Star Academics. [8:11] - We have to start with our own internal biases. Bias is well beyond culture. [9:34] - Communicating with educators can be challenging with new families. [10:47] - How are we evaluating processes in order to have a continuum of success? [12:58] - Investment in private and independent schools is a social justice issue. [14:33] - Stakeholders need to be tuned into the needs of every student, but students need to also be aware of their own learning profile as well. [16:05] - Academic mastery is often the easier part of this. [18:37] - When parents have a deference with teachers, it prevents the child from getting what they need. Advocacy needs to be modeled. [21:27] - You are not waiting to be empowered. You have power and are working in collaboration. If you aren’t empowered, is this the right placement? [24:16] - If students aren’t getting the accommodations they require, is it the right place for them? [26:55] - This is a long term process. What does it take for your child to be successful not just this school year, but the next one and beyond? [28:01] - It’s important to meet with the school in order to support the child. [29:53] - Schools are often focused on academic mastery. [31:20] - Research shows that if a child has just one person invested in them, they are more likely to be successful. [33:30] - Space is not just physical space. People at school should be safe spaces for students as well.   About Our Guest: Ashley Harding is a passionate fourth-generation educator and the Founder of North Star Academics. With a decade of experience, she's committed to improving the educational experience for children and families nationwide. Born and educated in West Los Angeles, she holds a Bachelor of Science from USC and a master's degree from Tufts University. Her focus includes creating social capital and support for students and families of color, and she has previously served as Director of Family and External Engagement for KIPP DC. Ashley's interests include promoting veganism, wearing black Chucks, and enjoying 1990s R&B.   Connect with Ashley Harding: ChildNEXUS Provider Profile Email: ashley@northstaracademics.org North Star Academics Website   Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Check out some amazing schools for incredible students   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.

Over the last few years, we’ve seen a noticeable increase in anxiety and anxiety disorders in children and adolescents. And we’ve talked about anxiety many times on the Diverse Thinking Different Learning Podcast. But one thing we haven’t discussed yet is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder or OCD. This is a topic that has been requested by listeners and I’m thrilled to have found today’s guest, Dr. Jesse Spiegel, an expert on OCD. Everyone has had the occasional concern about misplacing something or has had a fear of germs or contamination. Sometimes we have a need to order and arrange things in a particular way. But when these thoughts and behaviors become intense and begin to interfere with life, they may indicate OCD. In our conversation today, Dr. Spiegel explains the major differences between obsessive behaviors and compulsions as well as common unintentional mistakes parents make with children who exhibit these behaviors.   Show Notes: [2:28] - We are currently seeing a noticeable increase in anxiety in children and teens. [4:05] - OCD has two components: obsessions and compulsions. [5:48] - There are some compulsions that are observable to other people, but many compulsions are mental and unseen by others. [8:04] - Reassurance seeking is often overlooked by parents, but it is common in OCD and tends to feed the obsessions and compulsions. [10:03] - When you accommodate the child’s compulsive behaviors, it actually accommodates the OCD. [11:49] - Anxiety disorders overlap in a lot of ways, but OCD is overpowering. [15:00] - Exposure Response Prevention (ERP) is a component of the treatment for OCD. Dr. Spiegel explains what this entails. [19:12] - Being over accommodating or over demanding are mistakes that a lot of parents of children with OCD make. [20:16] - Parents need to learn new ways to respond because a lot of behaviors unintentionally fuel OCD. [22:27] - Let’s give a name to OCD for children. Some call it “The Worry Monster”. [24:57] - Giving it a name takes the power away from OCD. It’s not who you are, but it is impacting you. [26:30] - A lot of times, kids do not want to be in therapy. Dr. Spiegel describes some ways to provide motivation.   About Our Guest: Dr. Jesse Spiegel is a licensed clinical psychologist treating children, adolescents, and adults. He works in private practice in Los Angeles, CA, where he specializes in treating OCD, anxiety, insomnia, and behavioral-related problems. In addition to utilizing CBT and exposure-based therapies, Dr. Spiegel takes a family-based approach when working with clients. Dr. Spiegel is a clinical instructor at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences.  He is the Vice Chair of the Anxiety Depression Association of America’s (ADAA) OCD SIG.   Dr. Spiegel is a graduate of the IOCDF’s Behavioral Therapy Training Institute (BTTI), as well as the Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) program.   Connect with Dr. Jesse Spiegel: Dr. Jesse Spiegel’s Website Email: drjessespiegel@gmail.com    Links and Related Resources: Anxiety and the Family Anxiety and Depression in Adolescents Episode 67: Your Child’s Anxiety - When to Worry with Dr. Piacentini   Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Check out some amazing schools for incredible students   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.

Today we are welcoming back parenting activist and previous podcast guest, Debbie Reber. Debbie and I have had the opportunity to speak on multiple occasions and her support for parents of differently wired kids is extraordinary. As the founder and CEO of Tilt Parenting, Debbie has provided resources to parents around the world and uses her own experiences as a parent of a neurodivergent child to help other families navigate their unique journeys. In our conversation today, we are talking about her five step roadmap for parents. Parents of differently wired kids don’t get a roadmap for their journey, a journey which can be anxiety-provoking and lonely. But Debbie has created one and in our discussion, she shares what the steps are and why they are so important. And after learning each step, she explains how this roadmap changes in middle school. It is a conversation and resource you won’t want to miss.   Show Notes: [2:38] - Congratulations to Debbie for her 7 years of incredible work. [4:57] - Once it is understood the reason behind a behavior, it is easier to address it and support regulation. [6:44] - Karen has seen a shift in parents coming in for assessments not to “fix” their child but to better understand them. [8:47] - Homeschooling her own differently wired child for six years impacted Debbie’s understanding of the connection between learning and the environment. [11:02] - Debbie has created a roadmap for parents. This tool is incredible because parents typically don’t get a roadmap for raising a neurodivergent child. [12:26] - The first step on the roadmap is processing. Give yourself time to take a breath and get clear on what your values and goals are as a family. [15:04] - The second step is connecting. This journey feels isolating. [16:27] - Gathering is the third step and Debbie explains that it is all about creating your team. [19:36] - The next step is prioritizing. We can’t do it all at once and at any time in the journey, parents can get overwhelmed. [22:44] - If a child is not regulated, no meaningful growth will take place. [24:33] - The last step in the roadmap is acceptance. We’re here to support our kids. Part of acceptance is knowing that this is really hard. [26:18] - Our kids are constantly changing and the transition to middle school is particularly challenging. [27:47] - Sometimes you have to revisit things you already understand. For example ADHD in a 6 year old is different when they become a teenager. [29:47] - You have your limitations as a parent. You can’t do it all. [31:01] - The social landscape gets more complicated as a child ages and is certainly different from what parents experienced as adolescents. [33:05] - It’s important for us to unpack our own middle school trauma and experiences because they’re going to impact our parenting. [35:34] - Be your child’s companion through this journey.   About Our Guest: Debbie Reber, MA is a parenting activist, bestselling author, speaker, and the CEO and founder of Tilt Parenting, a resource, top-performing podcast, consultancy, and community with a focus on shifting the paradigm for parents raising and embracing neurodivergent children. Her most recent book, Differently Wired: A Parent’s Guide to Raising an Atypical Child with Confidence and Hope, came out in June 2018. After living abroad in the Netherlands for five years, Debbie, her husband, and differently wired teen moved to Brooklyn, NY in 2019.   Connect with Debbie Reber: Tilt Parenting Website   Links and Related Resources: Tilt Parenting Roadmap   More Conversations with Debbie and Karen: Tilt Parenting Episode 320: Dr. Karen Wilson on How and When to Talk to Kids About Their Diagnoses Diverse Thinking Different Learning Episode 144: Raising Differently Wired Kids with Joy and Confidence with Debbie Reber Tilt Parenting Episode 192: Dr. Karen Wilson on How to Know if Your Child is Ready for the Transition to Elementary School   Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Check out some amazing schools for incredible students

Holly Blanc Moses shares her journey with late ADHD diagnosis, reflecting on childhood struggles. Discusses challenges faced by parents with undiagnosed ADHD, emphasizing self-compassion and self-care. Offers insights on parenting ADHD children, highlighting cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and goal-setting for emotional balance.

In her book, The Hidden Link Between Vision and Learning, Wendy Beth Rosen cited a study by Ohio State University. That research study found that 69% of students with IEPs identified as having treatable vision problems, yet would pass a typical school screening. Most people only associate vision with eyesight, but today’s guest explains that there is so much more to the visual system and even a child with great eyesight could be struggling with vision-related learning difficulties. Today’s guest is Dr. Juanita Collier and she is here to discuss these vision related learning difficulties. A parent actually recommended this interview after her experience finding the help her child needed. I am so glad they reached out. This interview is so informative for all parents and Dr. Collier provides us with some great tips and guidelines to help the development of a child’s visual system.   Show Notes: [2:57] - 10% of children have a vision-related problem that interferes with learning. [3:22] - Vision is how you are taking in anything through your visual system. It is more than eyesight. [4:33] - Most screenings test distance vision, but near vision isn’t frequently checked in children. [5:46] - Kids don’t know how to explain that their vision is poor, especially if that is how it has always been for them. [8:43] - Dr. Collier describes the different parts of a vision test and how she is able to determine if the challenges a child is having are due to their vision. [11:56] - In addition to eyesight, visual processing needs to be evaluated. [13:50] - Dr. Collier explains what visual therapy entails and how it can positively impact students with vision-related learning difficulties. [16:03] - For children who didn’t crawl, parts of their vision hasn’t been fully developed. [18:23] - Currently, we are teaching children to read before their visual system is ready. [21:03] - Excessive screen time can create some problems. [23:19] - We are losing the need for a lot of skills that used to develop naturally because of excessive screen use. [25:05] - Eye strain is a concern. Adults will take a break when they have eye strain from screen time, but children don’t have that regulation. [26:09] - What is the 20-20-20 Rule? [28:23] - Dr. Collier shares information on concussions in children due to sports.   About Our Guest: Dr. Collier is a leading Behavioral Optometrist and the founder of 4D Vision Gym. She specializes in post-concussion care, vision-related learning difficulties, visual rehabilitation and visual development for patients of all ages.  She is one of only a few Optometrists in Connecticut to have earned Fellowship status by the International Examination & Certification Board (IECB) of the College of Optometrists in Vision Development. Dr. Collier has lectured extensively to physicians, therapists, school faculty, healthcare professionals and students on the importance of visual functioning, and advocates to make vision rehabilitation accessible to individuals of all ages and abilities.    Connect with Dr. Collier: 4D Vision Gym Home Page (860) 632-8243   Links and Related Resources: Our Child’s Hidden Learning Struggle: 6 Tips for Parents by Natasha Mileusnic It Could Be Your Eyes Podcast   Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Check out some amazing schools for incredible students   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.

Lately, we’ve been focusing on preparing students who think and learn differently for a transition back to school. But today’s topic is an interesting and often overlooked aspect of mental health - nutrition. Studies show that what we eat can significantly impact our mental wellbeing. The same is true for children and teens and we can help support their mental health through their diet.   Show Notes: [1:34] - Emerging research is showing that our dietary choices play a role in our mental health. [3:07] - Avoiding processed options is best but Americans get most of their calories from processed foods. [4:10] - How does nutrition impact our brains? [5:19] - Improving nutrition can have positive effects on depression and ADHD. [8:49] - Embrace whole foods. [9:04] - Variety is key. [9:20] - Consider a culture of mindful meals. [9:50] - Minimize processed foods. [11:14] - Everyone is different. It is important to consider a personalized approach.   Connect: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Check out some amazing schools for incredible students   Links and Related Resources: Adolescents prone to poor dietary choices, leading to changes in the brain Food and mood: how do diet and nutrition affect mental wellbeing? That salad isn’t just good for your nutrition - it may help stave off depression   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.

As we get started and accustomed to a new academic year for students, we need to take a moment to talk about sleep. How much sleep do children and adolescents actually need? What are signs that they are getting quality sleep or insufficient sleep? Many adults track their own sleep, but are you monitoring your child’s? When children and adolescents don’t get enough sleep it impacts their ability to focus, remember information, and regulate their emotions - all things that are critical to their wellbeing on any given day. In today’s episode, we’re discussing this crucial piece to a child’s health. So listen to find out if your child is sleeping enough, getting quality sleep, and some tips to improve sleep if it is a struggle.   Show Notes: [3:00] - Transitioning from a summer with little sleep schedule to a new school year with a routine can be very difficult for children. [5:04] - How much sleep do kids actually need?  [8:13] - What are the signs of sleep deprivation in kids? [10:18] - Insufficient sleep can cause issues with memory, mood, and stress. [11:26] - Early sleep issues are predictive of ADHD symptoms later. [13:51] - School schedules have an impact on sleep and some school districts start later in the morning to allow for students to sleep longer durations. [15:19] - Kids with ADHD are more likely to challenge parents and have behavioral problems around bedtime. [19:11] - Lights from screens can suppress melatonin and can delay the onset of sleep. [19:56] - Having a dark and cool room is best for quality sleep. [20:50] - Always talk about sleep patterns with your child’s pediatrician. [21:35] - Making sleep a priority for yourself is modeling the importance of sleep in a healthy lifestyle for your children.   Connect: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Check out some amazing schools for incredible students   Links and Related Resources: 5 Reasons Sleep Matters Most for Children 8 Ways Teenagers Suffer When They Don’t Get Enough Sleep Episode 40: Lifestyle Activities That Can Improve ADHD Symptoms with Dr. Joel Nigg Episode 147: 5 Tips to Help Students Transition Back to School   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.

A new school year is upon us! This can be an exciting time but it can also be challenging for parents and their children especially for those who think and learn differently. This quick episode is designed to help ensure a smooth start for these students and their families. These five tips can help navigate this period successfully. It’s not an exhaustive list, just a few tips to get the ball rolling for a great new school year.   Show Notes: [1:52] - Tip #1: Establish a predictable routine. [3:02] - Plan for adequate amounts of sleep. [4:20] - Tip #2: Prepare well in advance. [6:14] - Tip #3: Foster open communication. Schedule a meeting with your child’s teacher. [8:08] - Trust your gut. Don’t hesitate to take an active role. [8:35] - Tip #4: Break tasks into manageable steps. [9:52] - Tip #5: Focus on strengths and self-care. Celebrate success and encourage hobbies.   Connect: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Check out some amazing schools for incredible students   Links and Related Resources: Episode 146: How Parents and Educators Can Collaborate to Help Students Thrive with Shelley Lawrence Episode 142: How to Help Neurodivergent Kids Manage Social Media   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.

Shelley Lawrence, a seasoned school administrator, discusses the importance of collaboration between parents and educators. She emphasizes understanding why a child is struggling, leveraging strengths, and boosting confidence. The episode highlights the significance of early evaluations and interventions, personalized learning experiences, and fostering supportive collaboration for student success.

Are you concerned about whether your child has made meaningful progress over the last year in school? Today’s guest is an incredible special education attorney who is passionate about advocating for children and adults. You can hear the passion in her voice throughout this entire episode and she brings to light a lot of concerns as we begin the transition to heading back to the brick and mortar classroom environment. Our guest, Heather Zakson, is a special education attorney.  She answers a plethora of questions in this episode, shares staggering statistics, explains legislation and federal funding, and encourages all parents to strongly advocate for their children.   Show Notes: [3:01] - The transition going back to school is a front and center concern for a lot of families. [5:10] - Distance learning unlocked more tools and opportunities for many students.  [7:57] - Data is our stock and trade in special education. We need the information to compare data over time to see what’s working. [8:59] - A lot of work is done on screen and not kept in a paper format. Heather recommends always taking a screenshot of work to archive a child’s progress. [11:49] - Don’t think of assessments as something dictated only by schools. [12:46] - A psychological assessment will give us information on what intervention and support is needed. [13:44] - When seeking a private assessment, you have the control on who to conduct the testing and who to share the information with. [14:33] - If you are unable to have a private assessment done, Heather explains how it works through the school system. You can ask for a second opinion. [17:20] - Although we have seen the good things that have come from distance learning, there are many students who have suffered with great educational loss. [18:25] - Heather advises that if you think there is something wrong, follow your gut. [19:40] - All public schools have the ability to assess. [21:38] - When a child is behind, moving forward without support will just make them fall farther behind. Early intervention is crucial. [23:10] - When you are out there advocating for your child, don’t take no for an answer.  [27:53] - We know how to support children with social difficulties and with appropriate support, they can have a completely different educational experience. [30:54] - Heather explains what recoupment means and how this affects the near future of special education. [32:46] - Children with learning disabilities are legally entitled to remediation. [34:22] - When there is a reading and/or language delay, there needs to be evidence-based targeted reading instruction. [37:18] - Information doesn’t hurt anyone. It doesn’t put labels on anyone. [40:28] - Dyslexia screening should be a mandatory part of assessment early on for every student. [41:10] - What is SB 488 and how will it affect university programs for teachers? [44:50] - The Right to Read Project and Decoding Dyslexia are highly recommended to look into by both Heather and Karen. [46:27] - Every year is different when it comes to funding. Heather explains the push for federal funding for special education.  [48:19] - The real test of our educational system is how we support our students who struggle the most. [49:02] - Every child is entitled to an appropriate education and remediation of learning disabilities when appropriate.   About Our Guest: Heather Zakson represents children and adults in special education, Regional Center and discrimination cases and provides expert consultation on complex custody and guardianship matters. She is widely recognized for her creativity and tenacity on behalf of those whose rights have been violated and needs have gone unmet. She is a graduate of UCLA School of Law and Brandeis University, and has been practicing law for 18 Years.   Connect with Heather Zakson: Zakson Law Home Page Phone: (424) 369-9529 Heather Zakson on LinkedIn Heather Zakson, Attorney on Facebook   Links and Related Resources: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Check out some amazing schools for incredible students   Join our email list so that you can receive information about upcoming webinars - ChildNEXUS.com