Beautifully Complex

Expert in de-escalating challenging behavior, Dayna Abraham, discusses how to approach challenging behaviors as clues of dysregulation. She emphasizes the importance of staying calm, using sensory anchors, and understanding that all behavior is communication. The podcast explores the power of staying calm, effective communication with children, and the impact of parenting beliefs on children's behavior.

I’m diving into the big picture goals of education and how refocusing on those overarching goals helps struggling learners thrive. Join me as I discuss how understanding the true purpose of education and the true purpose of each task or assignment can level the playing field for struggling learners and enhance a child's learning journey.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

In this episode, I discuss the role of neurobiology in our ability to learn. Join me as we uncover the science behind how our nervous system’s state impacts our availability to learn. We will explore the concept of regulation and why it is crucial for optimal learning. Get ready for some eye-opening insights that will challenge the traditional educational norms we've been accustomed to.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

The concept of the "just right challenge" plays a crucial role in supporting growth and success for neurodivergent kids in school. I share insights on finding the balance between pushing children outside their comfort zones and ensuring they can still achieve success. I emphasize the need to meet kids where they are and create opportunities for growth, all while understanding the ever-changing nature of neurodiversity. Tune in to learn more about the Zone of Proximal Development and how to navigate the complexities of setting appropriate challenges for struggling students.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Connection and a sense of belonging are integral to learning. Join me as I explore strategies for creating a community that not only supports academic growth but also celebrates individual differences. Tune in to discover how building a culture of community can positively impact students' emotional well-being and engagement in the learning process.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Normalizing differences in education is a key topic for creating schools that are equitable to all learners. I share valuable lessons learned from experts on how to embrace neurodiversity, different learning styles, and unique needs in the classroom. Join me as I uncover strategies to create a culture of acceptance, foster community, and encourage open conversations about alternative approaches to learning. It's time to make education a place where every student feels seen, understood, and successful.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

In this episode, I explore the crucial importance of providing adaptable approaches to education for neurodivergent children and those who struggle in school. Prepare to discover three key ways to implement flexibility in education, ranging from the flexibility of the learning environment to accommodating different modalities of learning and allowing individualized planning and organization.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

In 2022, 34 students and adults died in school shootings, while more than 43,000 children were exposed to gunfire at school. These are startling statistics, but an epidemic that many Americans have grown somewhat numb to. While we’ve become accustomed to expecting more school shootings, it doesn’t reduce the fear and anxiety kids and parents feel. In fact, the inevitability keeps the lack of control top of mind.  In this episode, I’m joined by the Executive Director of the Trauma and Grief Centers, Dr. Julie Kaplow, to learn what we can do as parents and caregivers to help kids navigate the emotions and fears they feel when a school shooting happens. First and foremost, Dr. Kaplow says we have to talk about the tragedies with our kids. Listen in to learn more about what you can do to empower your kids to navigate tragedy and the resulting fear it often causes.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Rachel Harrington, a pediatric occupational therapy assistant, and Jessica Hill, a certified occupational therapy assistant, share their expertise on sensory systems vital for self-regulation. They explain the importance of the lesser-known senses—vestibular, proprioceptive, and interoceptive. The duo offers actionable strategies for parents to help children manage sensory overload and emotional dysregulation. They emphasize proactive approaches and co-regulation techniques to calm meltdowns, ensuring kids feel safe and supported.

School is hard for neurodivergent kids — there's no question about that. Traditional educational systems are not designed for kids who learn differently. That means we have to advocate for our children and take steps to provide a path for success. First and foremost, we must understand the end goal of schooling: to provide our children with the education and skills they need to thrive as adults. We can't achieve that if we get caught up in just conforming to a rigid system. Instead, let's focus on nurturing their individuality and helping them discover their sense of purpose. Our kids need to understand why they're learning certain things and how it will impact their lives. And here's the key: we need to create opportunities for them to experience success, no matter how small. Remember, learning and growth is a process, and it's important to meet kids where they are, celebrate their victories, and empower them with ownership and control over their education. Listen in to learn how.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.