Ep. 198: Strategies for a Smooth Back-to-School Transition with Gabrielle Hennings and Zoe Hemenway
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
Release Date: 08/13/2024
Ep. 216: Teen Anxiety: Signs, Causes, and Effective Treatment Options with Dr. Ashley Smith
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
This week, we had an engaging and enlightening discussion with about teen anxiety. Dr. Ashley Smith is an award-winning licensed psychologist and expert in anxiety, and we explore the critical differences between stress and anxiety, the various factors that are causing the surge in teen anxiety, and actionable strategies for parents and educators to support teens who are struggling. Dr. Ashley highlights the importance of distinguishing typical adolescent stress from pervasive anxiety that disrupts daily life, and she discusses the role of societal shifts like technology, social media, and...
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Ep. 215: How to Support Students Who Struggle with Reading Comprehension - with Dr. Emily Levy
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
This week we sit down with Dr. Emily Levy, founder and director of , to explore the complexities of reading comprehension, a skill crucial for learners of all ages. While phonics and decoding often dominate discussions around reading challenges, Dr. Levy highlights the often-overlooked significance of comprehension, explaining that it’s the very essence of why we read. Tune in to learn about common signs parents notice when their children struggle with comprehension and how these challenges often emerge as students transition from "learning to read" to "reading to learn." Dr. Levy shares...
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Ep. 214: Private Neuropsychological Evaluation vs. School Evaluation
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
Listen in to dive into a topic this week that often confuses parents, educators, and professionals alike: the differences between neuropsychological assessments, psychoeducational evaluations, and school-based assessments. Listen as Karen breaks down the purpose, scope, and key distinctions of these evaluations. We begin by exploring the reasons why families might seek assessments, from academic struggles to behavioral or emotional challenges, and even to identify giftedness. Learn how school-based evaluations focus on academic impact and eligibility for accommodations, while...
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Ep. 213: Top Interventions for Improving Executive Functioning Skills
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
Listen in as we discuss executive functioning and unpack its critical role in managing daily life and long-term success. There are the three core executive functions - inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility – and they form the foundation for skills like organization, planning, and emotional regulation. Hear compelling research that highlights the lifelong impact of executive functioning, including studies linking early skill development to improved academic, social, and career outcomes. We also discuss interventions that can significantly enhance these skills, with...
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Ep. 212: How Dyslexia Impacts Mental Health
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
Today, we’re exploring a crucial yet often overlooked topic: the impact of dyslexia on mental health. Dyslexia affects nearly 20% of people in the United States, yet its influence goes far beyond reading challenges. Many don’t realize the deep connection between dyslexia and mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and self-esteem struggles. Misunderstandings and stigma can lead to feelings of isolation, particularly in children who face early reading difficulties. This episode explores how misconceptions contribute to mental health challenges and why addressing these issues is so...
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Ep. 211: The Positive Impact of Music Therapy with Samantha Foote
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
Today, we’re exploring the transformative power of music therapy with our guest, Samantha Foote, a board-certified Neurologic Music Therapy Fellow and Positive Discipline Parent Educator. Samantha brings her expertise to support neurodivergent individuals and their families by blending creativity with therapeutic intervention. With her approach, she uses music not just as a tool for expression but as a dynamic medium to accomplish non-musical goals such as enhancing social skills, emotional regulation, and fostering positive behavior. Samantha explains how music therapy intersects with...
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Ep. 210: Challenging Behaviors or Communication? How Parents Can Respond with Dr. Andrew Kahn
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
Welcome back! In this episode, we’re diving into the world of managing challenging behaviors—a topic every parent can relate to. We often think of behavior as just an action, but today’s guest, Dr. Andrew Kahn, highlights that behavior is a form of communication. By reframing how we understand what our children are trying to express through their actions, we can open up new possibilities for positive outcomes for both parents and children. This shift in perspective can be a powerful tool for responding to even the most challenging behaviors in ways that support growth and connection. Dr....
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Ep. 209: How the Science of Reading Can Close Literacy Gaps with Dr. Benjamin Powers
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
Welcome to today’s episode, where we’ll be diving into the Science of Reading with our guest, Dr. Benjamin Powers. If you’re a parent, educator, or simply curious about how students learn to read, this episode is packed with insights on evidence-based reading instruction and how it can transform classrooms. Dr. Benjamin Powers is an educator, researcher, and thought leader who believes that cerebrodiverse learners should be embraced for their strengths and potential. Throughout his career, he has championed evidence-based approaches that recognize individual strengths, promote...
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Ep. 208: Overcoming Dyslexia and Addressing The Reading Crisis with Sally Shaywitz, MD
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
It’s not only ADHD Awareness Month, it is also Dyslexia Awareness Month! So today, let’s revisit a conversation with Dr. Sally Shaywitz about overcoming dyslexia and addressing the reading crisis, which is still relevant and a huge concern. We are in the midst of a reading crisis in the United States. This problem has existed for a long time, but it was exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been said that the pandemic has caused the loss of 2 decades worth of progress made in reading. We have the knowledge, research, and science to address this issue, but we are lacking action....
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Ep. 207: Straight Talk About ADHD in Girls with Dr. Stephen Hinshaw
Diverse Thinking Different Learning
It is ADHD Awareness Month, and we are revisiting an excellent conversation with Dr. Stephen Hinshaw about ADHD in girls. We’ve discussed ADHD on the podcast before and it continues to be an important topic. Dr. Stephen Hinshaw has conducted years of research including a longitudinal study on girls with ADHD and his findings are not only fascinating but important to consider especially if you are the parent of a daughter with ADHD. Dr. Hinshaw wrote a book called Straight Talk About ADHD in Girls: How to Help Your Daughter Thrive. Parenting a daughter with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity...
info_outlineCan you believe that it is almost time to go back to school? This time of year can be stressful for students and parents, especially when there’s a history of challenges with learning and transitions. Today’s guests, Gabrielle Hennings and Zoe Hemenway, bring their combined experience in education, specializing in supporting neurodiverse learners, to the conversation about preparing our students for this sometimes-exciting, sometimes-stressful transition.
In this episode, Gabrielle and Zoe share practical strategies to ease into the first days of a new school year. They’ll discuss the importance of starting routines now, rather than waiting until the first day of school. Key tips include establishing morning routines with visual reminders and setting predictable schedules to reduce anxiety. We’ll also cover how to gradually adjust sleep schedules and find the right planners or checklists for your unique learner. Additionally, Gabrielle and Zoe will emphasize the importance of focusing on students’ strengths and using the new school year as an opportunity for a fresh start.
Whether you’re a parent or educator, this episode offers valuable insights to help neurodiverse learners thrive in the upcoming school year.
Show Notes:
[2:54] - Start preparing now. Don’t wait till the first day of school to start a routine.
[4:29] - To help with a morning routine, Gabrielle and Zoe suggest using visual reminders.
[6:04] - Starting the day with a sense of predictability helps set neurodiverse students up for a smoother day and can reduce stress and anxiety.
[8:35] - Begin by setting alarms earlier every day until students are accustomed to waking up earlier. Place the visual reminders someplace they can see often.
[9:45] - Not all planners and checklists work for everyone. Find one that works for you.
[12:48] - Using a planner for fewer tasks in the summer is a great idea to maintain the responsibility and accountability before the stakes are higher during the school year.
[14:05] - If students set a goal for themselves, it is always an important and meaningful goal.
[16:24] - Consider previous school year’s reports and grades and help set achievable goals.
[17:51] - No matter the plan or goals, executive functioning needs to be a focus.
[20:14] - Students need to be given the tools to realize their capabilities.
[22:17] - We need to also be mindful of implementing an afternoon routine.
[25:05] - Strategies that Gabrielle and Zoe have written are designed to be understandable and digestible by students. This is important for educators to remember.
[27:20] - Although there are things that are difficult, we need to remind our students of their strengths.
[28:53] - This is every student’s opportunity for a brand new start. What do they want their fresh start to look like?
[32:09] - Don’t let the bumps in the road stop you from sticking with things.
About Our Guests:
Gabrielle Hennings and Zoe Hemenway bring a combined dedication of 14 years to the realm of education, shaping young minds for a brighter future. Their journey has been marked by a deep commitment to understanding and appreciating neurodiverse learners, valuing the richness that diverse learning styles bring to the educational landscape. In their extensive experience, Gabrielle and Zoe have cultivated a profound insight into the unique needs of neurodiverse learners. They firmly believe in the power of meeting each learner at their individual starting point, recognizing that true educational growth happens when tailored to individual potential. Together, Gabrielle and Zoe bring a wealth of experience and a shared passion for creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Their commitment to recognizing and nurturing the potential in every student defines the ethos of their educational approach. Join them as they embark on a journey of personalized learning, where diversity is celebrated, and every student has the opportunity to blossom.
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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.