Beautifully Complex

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, Leslie Josel and I explore the crucial role of emotional rewards in building habits and fostering positive behavior in neurodivergent children. We highlight the significance of specific praise, genuine curiosity, and active listening in reinforcing routines and solidifying relationships. The conversation also delves into the challenges of effective communication and the importance of providing space for children to process. You’ll get practical insights and strategies, and be empowered with valuable tools to support your child’s development and nurture meaningful connections.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, join host Penny Williams as she delves into the topic of childhood OCD with guest Brendan Mahan, M.Ed., MS. Brendan opens up about his personal journey raising a child with OCD and the challenges his child and family faced, and continues to face, along the way. From the early signs of OCD in his son to the impact of COVID on his family dynamics, Brendan shares the highs, lows, and important lessons learned about raising a kid with OCD. Join us as we explore the complexities of OCD, the power of connection, and the realities of being a parent in the face of mental health challenges. This is a conversation you won't want to miss.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Penny Williams, expert in behavior challenges for kids with ADHD, discusses off-task behavior, emotional regulation, and effective strategies for neurodivergent children at school. Tips include creating supportive environments and seeking professional help like occupational therapy.

In this episode of Beautifully Complex, we’re discussing the incredible power of music for those who are neurodivergent with Penny’s son, Luke. Luke shares his personal journey with music, starting from using it as a tool to assist his focus and mental clarity beginning in fourth grade. He also delves into his experience with creating digital music on his iPad and phone. Penny and Luke explore how this particular form of music — with its rhythmic and often heavy nature — has been instrumental in helping Luke regulate his emotions, cope with overwhelm, and ultimately improve his ability to refocus on his schoolwork. They also touch upon how different music genres, including heavy and fast beats, can have a calming effect on neurodivergent individuals. Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of using music to feel better and do better and uncover the beautiful complexity it brings to our lives.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

In today's episode, our host Penny Williams dives deep into a topic that many parents struggle with: how to stay calm in the midst of the storm. As a parenting coach, author, and mindset mama, Penny shares her personal journey of going from a parent who yelled and felt frustrated to one who responds calmly, compassionately, and clear-headedly. From reframing our children's behavior to understanding that it's not personal, Penny offers valuable insights and strategies on how to manage our emotions and effectively support our neurodivergent kids. Let's dive into this beautifully complex topic together.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

Alice Gendron, The Mini ADHD Coach, shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD and the misconceptions surrounding it. She highlights the importance of community, the unique challenges faced by girls with ADHD, and the significance of self-awareness in embracing individual differences. The podcast explores strategies for focus and productivity, executive functioning skills, and trying different approaches in working with the ADHD brain.

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.

In this episode, I’m diving deep into the reality of frustration, particularly for mothers of neurodivergent children with Stephanie Rosenfield. Stephanie shares her insights and personal experiences, highlighting the challenges and struggles faced by moms who are constantly striving to balance authenticity and protectiveness. We'll explore the societal pressures of being the perfect parent and how it impacts our ability to be real with our children. Stephanie also offers valuable tips on how to navigate frustrating moments and teach resilience to our kids. Get ready for an honest and eye-opening conversation that will leave you reflecting on your own parenting journey. Let's explore the beautifully complex reality of frustration with Stephanie Rosenfield.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/beautifully-complex--6137613/support.

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.