If you have a child who thinks, learns, or experiences the world differently than others, this episode is for you. Parents of differently wired kids may face a negative stigma, uncertainty, and may make decisions from a place of fear, especially in regards to education. But today’s guest shares her experience and encourages parents to change their mindset and make decisions from a place of possibility. I am thrilled to welcome Debbie Reber as today’s guest on the Diverse Thinking Different Learning Podcast. Debbie inspired me to begin this podcast journey and as a parent of a differently wired child herself, she comes to the podcast today with personal stories, many years of experience, and open arms to welcome other parents on the same journey. Debbie is a parenting activist, author, keynote speaker, and founder of TiLT Parenting. The resources and community she offers through TiLT Parenting are helping parents around the world connect and support each other in raising differently wired children. We could talk for hours, but on today’s episode with Debbie we focus on what it means to be “differently wired,” how Debbie grew from making decisions from fear to making decisions from love and possibility, and how parents can use their voices to make positive change in the education of their children.   Show Notes: [1:35] - Debbie really leans in to embracing the fact that your child may be differently wired. [3:26] - Debbie never intended to walk this path, but as her son received diagnoses, it made things more challenging. [5:01] - Sharing the challenge in finding the right environment for her son, Debbie explains that they bounced around to different schools and then homeschooled for 6 years. [6:00] - This experience was the catalyst for her to start her own podcast and help other parents in similar situations. [7:58] - As she observed her son learning at home, Debbie made the realization of why traditional schooling had not been a success. [9:16] - There needs to be a shift in how we educate children. [11:00] - Debbie demonstrates that the traditional school model does not teach kids to be critical thinkers. [15:57] - Learning loss is of course a concern, but Dr. Wilson believes that social, emotional, and mental health support is more important. [18:49] - Debbie talks about her book Differently Wired: Raising an Exceptional Child in a Conventional World.  [20:04] - There is no clear path for parents, especially when raising a differently wired child.  [21:07] - Debbie provides some reflection questions to ask yourself as a parent to find out more about choosing love and possibility. [22:23] - If we, as parents, have a negative idea of what a child with a diagnosis looks like, we will not make decisions that are best for the child. [24:38] - The idea behind Debbie’s podcast and the community she has built is to help support parents. [28:21] - Dr. Wilson and Debbie talk about the IEP process and the changes that need to be made to the educational system. [30:10] - Debbie references a book that she recommends called The End of Average by Todd Rose and how there really isn’t any such thing as “average.” [31:23] - Karen highly recommends Debbie’s book and her TEDtalk.   About Our Guest: Debbie Reber is a parenting activist, New York Times bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the founder of TiLT Parenting, a top podcast, community, and educational resource for parents raising differently wired children. Her book, Differently Wired: Raising an Exceptional Child in a Conventional World, came out in June 2018. After living abroad in the Netherlands for five years, Debbie, her husband, and 16-year-old son relocated to Brooklyn, NY in 2019.   Connect with Debbie Reber: TiLT Parenting Home Page TiLT Parenting Podcast   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

With different types of technology becoming more and more accessible, today’s guest has found the surprising and amazing benefits of virtual reality on neurodivergent individuals. As the father of a child on the autism spectrum, Vijay Ravindran discovered first hand what the technology can provide for those who think and learn differently. Vijay’s positive experience led him to create Floreo, a research-based and effective therapy that uses virtual reality (VR) to teach social, behavioral, and life skills to neurodivergent individuals. This technology is not only effective, it is also engaging and exciting. Floreo is available to anyone to use and in today’s episode you’ll learn more about the technology and what it offers learners.   Show Notes: [2:07] - Vijay’s inspiration for Floreo came from his experience as the father of a child on the autism spectrum. [3:24] - Virtual reality is special because it is fully immersive and accessible. [4:45] - The environments created are very engaging. [6:17] - Virtual reality is a technology that allows someone wearing a headset with screens built in to feel a sense of presence in a different place. [7:33] - Floreo’s VR content is designed to help develop skills. [9:04] - They recreate scenes with animations and supervision to have social interactions as an intervention. [11:21] - This platform incorporates lessons on a vast number of skills including those for adults. [13:01] - Floreo offers the program through video conferencing and telehealth therapy. [15:22] - Floreo provided so much support for children in need of services during the COVID-19 pandemic. [18:24] - Situations can be recreated for individuals with anxiety to practice before experiencing them in person. [20:15] - Floreo is focusing on partnering with health care providers and special education administrators. [24:45] - Visit Floreo’s website to see what it is all about.   About Our Guest: Inspired by his experience as an autism father and his child’s first experience with VR, Vijay Ravindran founded Floreo. Vijay started his career as an engineer and leader at Amazon in its early retail days before dedicating himself to impact-oriented leadership opportunities that have taken him from building key voter technology used by the Obama campaign in 2008 to Chief Digital Officer at The Washington Post Company. Vijay lives in Washington DC with his wife, two Star Wars obsessed kids, and hundreds of Transformers robots which he doesn’t let his kids play with. Outside of work, when he’s not rooting on his beloved Oklahoma Sooners, you can find him on the tennis courts.    Connect with Vijay: Floreo for Providers Floreo for Education Floreo for Families   Links and Related Resources: Episode 80: Turning Kids’ Passions and Enthusiasms Into Superpowers with Barry Prizant Episode 63: Supporting Youth with Autism and ADHD with Holly Blanc Moses   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.

In this short summer episode, we’re talking about social media. There was a recent health advisory issued by the US Surgeon General on social media use in adolescence and ways to mitigate risks. The findings on excessive social media use are not entirely surprising, but it is important to keep in mind the added risks for neurodivergent kids. Today, we’ll talk about what those risks are and six ways to help manage social media use by kids and teens.    Show Notes: [2:10] - Increased stress, anxiety, and depression have been associated with excessive social media use. [2:56] - Neurodivergent kids may be more vulnerable to these risks. [4:04] - Excessive screen time can lead to poor sleep and even greater difficulty with attention. [5:44] - Establish clear rules and boundaries. [6:06] - Establish open communication channels to discuss online experiences and concerns. [6:34] - Create technology-free spaces. Talk about online safety. [7:12] - Encourage balance. [7:51] - Monitor social media use. [9:06] - There are some benefits of social media, and it can be a powerful tool.   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: The Surgeon General’s Advisory can be downloaded in full HERE Episode 98: Managing Technology Use at Home with Dr. Joe Dilley Episode 140: 10 Ways Parents Can Support Their Child’s Mental Health Over the Summer Clarifying Gray Areas in Family Tech Use Family Tech Use Part 2: Resolving Common Dilemmas   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.

Auditory processing and language processing are two subjects that overlap, but not everyone understands how they are related and how they impact children who struggle with both of them. Joining me today to help me discuss this is Lois Kam Heymann, a speech and language pathologist with over four decades of experience with auditory processing disorder and auditory language processing challenges. Parents often come to Lois saying that their children aren’t listening, and if you are someone who feels that their child or children don’t listen, then this episode is definitely going to be worthwhile for you as Lois explains what could be going on. She also explains the difference between auditory processing disorders and ADHD, which are often confused even by medical professionals. The only way for parents and professionals to intervene appropriately is for a thorough assessment to be done. We need to know exactly where the problem lies so that we can intervene appropriately, especially since these problems can lead to frustration and low self-esteem in the child. I love the work that Lois is doing, so I hope that you will tune in as she discusses all of these topics and more! It’s never too late to address auditory processing disorders.   Show Notes: [2:39] - Auditory skills don’t usually start in the ear but in the brain. [5:11] - Some kids with language difficulty are misdiagnosed with something like ADHD. [6:39] - The difference between an auditory processing disorder and ADHD. [9:28] - Lois lists off and explains the different parts of auditory processing. [11:39] - How auditory processing difficulty can affect behavior. [14:14] - What can parents do to help their children succeed in school? [17:19] - The only way to build pathways is with auditory input. [19:42] - It is not generally a teacher’s job to teach auditory skills. [20:39] - Adults can have auditory processing disorders, and it’s never too late. [21:27] - What can parents do during summer months? [24:56] - Modeling language and behavior is the best way a parent can teach. [25:40] - Lois shares information with us about her company ListenLoveLearn. [28:54] - Hear about Lois’ main objective.   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 Ep. 49: Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder with Dr. Bea Braun ListenLoveLearn Website Email Lois: lois@listenlovelearn.com Lois Kam Heymann - The Sound of Hope: Recognizing, Coping with, and Testing Your Child’s Auditory Processing Disorder   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.

Explore 10 tips to support your child's mental health over the summer. From maintaining a routine to promoting independence, these strategies aim to foster well-being. Dr. Karen Wilson emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health challenges in children. Learn how to encourage physical activity, social connections, and self-care for a holistic approach to mental wellness.

The end of a school year is a great time to reimagine learning environments for the next academic year. While that may seem like a topic only applicable to teachers and their classrooms, these redesign ideas are amazing additions to a child’s home as well. Today’s guest is Lindsay Astor Grant, a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Learning Redesigned. At Learning Redesigned, Lindsay helps teachers and parents reimagine the learning space with the mission of partnering with schools to help create and sustain the optimal learning potential of their students.  In our conversation today, Lindsay describes what changes we can make to a child’s environment to ensure that the brain is in the readiness stage for learning. And while we are preparing for the next academic year, this is the perfect time to start thinking about what we can do to help support the needs of our children and students.   Show Notes: [2:52] - The learning environment is often overlooked but it is so important and could contribute to dysregulation. [4:34] - Lindsay did a great amount of research and observation about the classroom environment impacting student behavior. [6:01] - Behavior is communication. [7:38] - When beginning the redesign process, Lindsay starts small in creating spaces that help children stay as even as possible internally. [9:12] - Rather than focusing on the behavior itself, we need to think about the sensory issue that contributes to the behavior. [11:01] - Everyone, including neurotypical adults, have a threshold on how much we can handle before we are in sensory overload. [12:41] - Understimulation can also cause behavioral reactions from children. [15:27] - In classroom and even home environment redesign, Lindsay creates a space that is not punitive that allows a child to come down from overstimulation. [17:24] - Providing a safe space also gives students validation for their feelings. [20:28] - It’s not white walls and white furniture, it’s more neutral colors that are calming and peaceful in the classroom. [22:16] - Let the background be neutral and the color come from the artwork. [23:48] - The majority of problems come from transitions. [24:50] - Visual schedules are not only helpful in the classroom but in the home as well. [28:01] - Creating a “zen zone” is something that Lindsay has done for students in as early as pre-k classrooms. [30:02] - Many teachers are worried that students will just spend their whole day in the zen zone, but Lindsay says that if it is done in conjunction with others, that won’t be a problem. [33:24] - When a kid is uncomfortable, they won’t be able to take in the information you need them to learn. [35:18] - Using the same or similar supports as the classroom at home creates consistency for the child. [38:29] - Sometimes, the entire school will adopt this approach and the impact is noticeable especially over time. [41:06] - Another effect of this is a classroom culture that fosters acceptance and understanding.   About Our Guest: Lindsay Astor Grant is a licensed pediatric occupational therapist and owner of Learning Redesigned. She earned her M.A. in Occupational Therapy from the University of Southern California and has advanced training in Sensory Integration, Executive Function, Motor Skill Development, and Classroom Design. Lindsay has more than two decades of experience in the field. She began her career as an OT for the Los Angeles Unified School District and in 2007, she started Children First Therapy, providing private in-home and school-based occupational therapy services. In 2018, Lindsay founded Learning Redesigned, working as an independent consultant for schools. She leads staff professional development sessions, as well as parent education seminars on topics including Executive Function, Sensory Integration, Classroom Layout and Design, Movement-Based Learning, and Motor Development.    Connect with Lindsay Astor Grant: Email LindsayAstor@gmail.com Learning Redesigned Home Page Consult with one of our Occupational Therapists here   Links and Related Resources: Episode 133: How Occupational Therapy Can Help Address Picky Eating with Dr. Ellie Bendetson and Leah Hiller Episode 117: How Surf Therapy Helps Neurodivergent Kids with Naomi Matanick Episode 9: How Occupational Therapy Helps Kids with Leah Hiller   Trying to figure out next steps in supporting your child?  Book a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Karen Wilson - https://www.childnexus.com/consultation    Join our email list so that you can receive information about upcoming webinars - ChildNEXUS.com 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.

In today’s episode, we have the author of an incredible book called Canaries Among Us, Kayla Taylor. And in our conversation today, we are tackling three topics at once: bullying, learning differences, and anxiety.  Canaries Among Us is a raw and honest exploration of the everyday lives of children challenged by learning differences, anxiety, and bullying. Author Kayla Taylor blends science and poignant storytelling to create this necessary, timely, and stigma-tackling resource for anyone interested in child well-being. Kayla writes to address important issues plaguing families, and she uses a pseudonym to protect the identities of minors and other vulnerable individuals. She supports organizations that promote mental health, neurodiversity, and bullying prevention. This is a conversation that will resonate with many families, especially those of children with learning differences.   Show Notes: [2:26] - Kayla shares that she never saw herself as a writer, but had an experience that rocked her and her family’s world which drove her to write Canaries Among Us. [4:05] - After journaling, writing creates meaning for Kayla. [5:07] - She felt alone for a very long time, but she realized how many families were dealing with the same thing. She felt a moral obligation to pay it forward. [7:17] - We have a huge societal issue with how we treat children with learning differences. [8:05] - When something is seemingly wrong, we try to fix the kid. But we don’t look at how broken the system is. [9:10] - We strip the joy out of life when we put people into boxes. [10:29] - Kayla explains the title of her book Canaries Among Us. [12:18] - If we just see a child based on their weakness, we miss so much about them. [15:09] - As a society, we are not equipping teachers with the tools and strategies they need to support all students in their classes. [17:12] - This is also impacted by the healthcare system. [19:28] - There are so many points where we can improve the systems we have. [21:28] - Kayla shares a story about a child who very clearly needed support and was denied everything. [23:38] - Average doesn’t bring out the strengths in anyone. A child may appear average when it comes to testing, but is filled with anxiety and struggle. [25:55] - When we focus on average and not everyone’s individual strengths and weaknesses, not only does the individual suffer, but society as a whole does as well. [28:41] - Kayla explains why bullying is a major topic of her book in addition to learning differences and anxiety. [30:39] - Marginalized children are unfortunately the most targeted for bullying. [33:55] - Bullying is not a right of passage. [36:47] - Kayla describes an experience with an administrator that denied bullying exists in elementary school. [39:32] - There are different reactions to bullying and Kayla shares that the people who are the most helpful and empathetic are those who have had struggles themselves. [41:45] - We need to shine a spotlight on the children who are making the effort to show their differences and celebrate the differences of others. [43:52] - One way Kayla models acceptance to her own children is to strip her vocabulary of words like “strange” and “weird”.   About Our Guest: Kayla Taylor is a best-selling writer, researcher, advocate, and parent. She recently published Canaries Among Us, an exposé blending poignant storytelling and groundbreaking research to empower those caring for the millions of kids challenged by learning differences, bullying, and anxiety. This heartrending chronicle bravely tackles harmful stigmas and proposes new ways of thinking about how we raise and teach our children. Throughout her story, Taylor reveals both the exquisite joy and painful heartache inherent in raising children who don't fit society's definition of "normal."   Connect with Kayla Taylor: Instagram Kayla Taylor Home Page Canaries Among Us: A Mother’s Quest to Honor Her Child’s Individuality in a Culture Determined to Negate It by Kayla Taylor   Links and Related Resources: What Are the Consequences of Bully Victimization on Children and How Can You Help Them Cope? Bully Proofing Strategies for Teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Other Social Challenges Episode 43: Building Social Competence and Enhancing Social Skills with Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson What is a Comprehensive Evaluation and How Can It Help Support My Child’s Learning? Episode 132: Social Justice: A Framework for Equity in Education with Charles A. Barrett   Trying to figure out next steps in supporting your child?  Book a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Karen Wilson - https://www.childnexus.com/consultation    Join our email list so that you can receive information about upcoming webinars - ChildNEXUS.com 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 common struggle for parents and families is how to help their children understand their developmental and learning differences. For some parents, they don’t want to have the conversation at all. But today’s guest not only explains why it is important for a child to understand their brain, but the language we can use to start shifting a negative narrative. Dr. Liz Angoff is an Educational Psychologist who provides assessment and consultation services to children and their families. She is also the author of the Brain Building Books, tools for engaging children in understanding their learning and developmental differences as part of the assessment process. In our conversation today, Dr. Angoff shares the language and strategies she uses with the children and adolescents she works with to help them understand their strengths and struggles with the perfect balance to normalize and validate it all.   Show Notes: [2:22] - Kids know that they are different in some way and it shouldn’t be kept a secret from them. [3:38] - When kids don’t have the understanding of the way their brains work, they create their own narrative, which is often negative. [4:52] - When we can be realistic and transparent with kids, they can shift this narrative. [6:17] - The vast majority of the kids that Dr. Angoff works with express relief when they learn about their differences. [7:10] - Striking the balance means acknowledging both strengths and areas of struggle. [8:19] - Dr. Angoff shares a metaphor that helps kids understand how their brains work. [10:43] - This language normalizes always having something to work on and the process of learning new things. [12:53] - Kids need to understand that all adults also have ongoing construction projects as we are all always learning. [14:16] - Assessment should be approached from a place of curiosity. [16:06] - Many parents choose not to share a diagnosis with their child. The concerns are understandable. [17:29] - When we name what’s going on, we are giving kids a container for all these feelings and experiences. It also gives you community. [19:31] - Dr. Angoff shares some language and verbiage to use that becomes empowering and validating. [21:21] - When we understand how kids think about their experience, we can work on shifting their narrative. [24:23] - Dr. Angoff shares an example of how to address a struggle and area of frustration with a child. [27:28] - When kids understand why they are receiving an intervention, they are more invested. [29:58] - Dr. Angoff shares the experience of a child who became curious about her own disability. [32:27] - These are ongoing conversations and not a one time thing. [34:12] - Every child is different, but Dr. Angoff offers resources on how to talk to your children about their differences.   About Our Guest: Liz Angoff, Ph.D., is a Licensed Educational Psychologist with a Diplomate in School Neuropsychology, providing assessment and consultation services to children and their families in the Bay Area, CA. She is the author of the Brain Building Books, tools for engaging children in understanding their learning and developmental differences as part of the assessment process.    Connect with Dr. Liz Angoff: Website for Parents Website for Practitioners Brain Building Books Instagram   Links and Related Resources: What is a Comprehensive Evaluation and How Can It Help Support My Child’s Learning? Episode 2: Demystifying the Assessment Process Episode 28: Why We Need to Celebrate and Continue to Build Our Kids’ Resilience   Trying to figure out next steps in supporting your child?  Book a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Karen Wilson - https://www.childnexus.com/consultation    Join our email list so that you can receive information about upcoming webinars - ChildNEXUS.com 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.

We have talked about many different topics on the Diverse Thinking Different Learning Podcast, but today’s topic of conversation is a new one. Although a new topic, it is a concern for many parents. Today we are talking about tics and our guest is an expert in this area. I’m thrilled to invite Dr. Kim Edwards to the show to talk about tics and Tourette Syndrome. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Dr. Edwards, and her expertise in this area provides so many families with the education and empowerment they need to manage their tics in a healthy way. Tics are more common than you think. Dr. Edwards explains just how common they are in children, and she discusses ways we can help them manage the behavior. It’s an interesting and uplifting conversation that you won’t want to miss.   Show Notes: [2:32] - Tics are rapid and repetitive movements or sounds. Dr. Kim Edwards shares some of the common motor and vocal tics. [3:35] - Some tics are part of normal development in childhood. [4:55] - Dr. Edwards compares the relief of a tic to scratching a mosquito bite. People with tics who try to suppress it compare it to holding their breath. [6:34] - Tics are not something that kids and adults want to do. It is not a choice and they struggle suppressing the urge. [7:48] - Tics love attention but sometimes responding to a tic establishes a connection and can make it worse. [9:55] - A common question from parents is “Will my child have this tic forever?” Some will pass, but some may experience more chronic tics. [11:30] - We cannot underestimate the power of education and understanding for families and the child themselves. [13:06] - There are environmental factors that play a role in the waxing and waning of tics. [14:06] - The swearing tic is actually very rare contrary to popular belief. [15:05] - It is possible for tics to be a part of ADHD or OCD. [16:23] - Tics don’t hurt the brain and because they aren’t impairing, there is no need to intervene unless it is harmful or bothersome to the individual. [17:37] - Dr. Edwards describes Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT). [19:34] - CBIT is a management strategy, not a cure. There is no real way to make a tic go away completely and some new tics might pop up. [21:25] - There are medications that are possibly needed for intervention, but they are less impactful on targeting tics and have some side effects. [23:07] - What are sudden onset explosive tics? [24:32] - Functional tics are a little different. It is thought that increased stress and screen time during COVID led to an increase. [25:56] - Dr. Edwards has found that CBIT does not help individuals with functional tics. [28:53] - People, especially kids, need to understand how their brain works. [30:54] - When kids understand their brains, they can advocate for themselves and be a part of the conversation. Don’t underestimate the power of involving your child. [32:27] - Going through hard things builds resilience and challenges cannot be avoided. [35:31] - Dr. Edwards shares an analogy that helps parents realize that the journey they are on with their child is wonderful.   About Our Guest: Dr. Kim Edwards is a registered clinical and health psychologist in the Province of Ontario and the State of New York. Dr. Edwards specializes in the assessment and treatment of repetitive behavior disorders. She is one of only three Canadian Psychologists who can certify other health care professionals in Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics (CBIT) – the behavioral treatment for tic disorders. After receiving her PhD from the University of Western Ontario, Dr. Edwards completed a 1-year clinical residency and a 2-year fellowship specializing in pediatric neuropsychiatric disorders at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. While at SickKids, she co-developed and ran the hospital’s first groups for youth with tics and Body Focused Repetitive Behavior disorders. After her fellowship, Dr. Edwards worked at McMaster Children’s Hospital where she was a founding member of the pediatric chronic pain program and an assistant clinical professor in the department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences.   Connect with Dr. Kim Edwards: Email: kim.edwards@mindfithealth.ca  Phone: 647-646-3348   Links and Related Resources: Specialized MindFit Programs Tics and Tourette Syndrome   Trying to figure out next steps in supporting your child?  Book a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Karen Wilson - https://www.childnexus.com/consultation    Join our email list so that you can receive information about upcoming webinars - ChildNEXUS.com 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.  

We know that anxiety is common and many of us have experienced some level of anxiety. But there are many myths and misunderstandings about anxiety that could be preventing a child from getting the care and treatment they need. One of the myths you might have heard is that “kids will grow out of it.” While stress and fear are normal components of childhood development, 80% of children who are experiencing problematic anxiety are not getting treatment. Dr. John Piacentini joins me today to help us understand what anxiety is, how it differs from stress, and how to help your child if they are struggling with anxiety. For children and adults alike, stress levels continue to be high as we are still dealing with the uncertainty of the pandemic. But there are things we can do to validate a child’s feelings and help them through mild anxiety. And for those who are experiencing severe anxiety, Dr. Piacentini explains different types of treatment and support that can positively impact the trajectory of a child’s development.   Show Notes: [2:25] - There have been and continue to be concerns about the impact of anxiety on childhood development. [3:26] - Stress is a physical reaction in response to something difficult or even exciting. [4:29] - When stress becomes chronic, it is cause for concern. [5:04] - Alternatively, anxiety is related to fear. Fear is a response to something that is threatening. [6:31] - Dr. Piacentini gives an example to show the difference and similarities between stress, anxiety, and fear. [7:58] - There are times in development when anxiety and fear are normal. [10:30] - The intensity of the anxiety and anxious behaviors is something that is looked at and is cause for concern. [12:04] - Avoiding the thing the child is fearful of can intensify the anxiety. [13:34] - Dr. Piacentini explains the difference between positive and negative reinforcement and how each kind impacts behavior. [15:43] - A parent’s nature is to want to protect their child from stress, but Dr. Piacentini reminds us that their independence needs to develop. [17:05] - Missing out on social situations has a negative impact on anxiety. [18:51] - There are higher levels of mental health issues associated with the pandemic. Children with anxiety are even more sensitive. [20:10] - When schools closed, many children with anxiety and OCD felt validated, but the return to school has caused more stress, fear, and anxiety. [21:30] - Avoid having young children watch the news and catastrophizing the pandemic and provide as much structure as you can. [23:26] - Don’t accommodate the anxiety. [25:15] - Dr. Piacentini describes Cognitive Behavior Therapy and discusses how effective it can be. [28:50] - About 10% of kids meet criteria for problematic anxiety. Only 2 out of 10 are getting the treatment they need. [30:01] - A common physical symptom of anxiety are frequent headaches and stomachaches. [31:48] - The mission of UCLA CARES is to increase awareness and to help identify early signs of anxiety.   About Our Guest: Dr. John Piacentini is a board-certified clinical child and adolescent psychologist and Professor of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences in the David Geffen School of Medicine and Semel Institute for Neuroscience at UCLA.  He is also the Director of the UCLA Child OCD, Anxiety and Tic Disorders Program and the Center for Child Anxiety, Resilience, Education and Support. Dr. Piacentini’s research focuses on the development of science-based treatments for child anxiety, OCD, tic, and related disorders. Through UCLA CARES, he and his team have implemented a number of school and community-based education and prevention programs to reduce the burden of child anxiety. Dr. Piacentini has authored over 300 scientific publications, including seven books, and his research has been funded by the National Institute of Mental Health and other leading foundations and philanthropic organizations. Dr. Piacentini is a frequent lecturer, and with his team has trained hundreds of mental health clinicians around the world in cognitive-behavior therapy and other evidence-based treatments and provided care to over 1000 children, adolescents, and their families.   Connect with Dr. John Piacentini: UCLA CARES Center Website Dr. Piacentini on Twitter   Links and Related Resources: Anxiety and the Family Anxiety and Depression in Adolescents How Social Anxiety Differs From Shyness and How to Help Your Child Episode 8: Mindfulness with Dr. Kathleen Carroll Wray Episode 6: Managing Family Stress and Anxiety with Dr. Stephanie Mihalas   Join our email list so that you can receive information about upcoming webinars - ChildNEXUS.com 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.