Ep. 248: The Power of Early Intervention: How Neuroplasticity Shapes Young Brains with Dr. Viannae Nelkin

Joining us for this episode of Diverse Thinking Different Learning is Dr. Viannae Nelkin.  Dr. Viannae Nelkin is a board-eligible pediatric neuropsychologist and founder of The Children’s Neuropsychology Center. She earned her master’s and doctorate in clinical psychology, training at top institutions including Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Cedars-Sinai, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, and Children’s Hospital of Orange County. Her work focuses on early intervention, neurodiversity-affirming care, and empowering families to help their children thrive. Deeply committed to supporting children with neurological and genetic conditions, she will soon return to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center to continue her specialized work.

​​This conversation explores understanding the brain’s remarkable ability to grow and adapt (its neuroplasticity) and how it can help shape how parents, educators, and clinicians support children with learning differences. Rather than viewing assessments as an endpoint, we discuss how each evaluation is a starting point or a roadmap revealing a child’s unique learning profile and potential for growth.

Dr. Nelkin describes neuroplasticity as the brain’s superpower, an ongoing ability to form and strengthen neural pathways throughout life. She explains that learning differences are not signs of inability but are rather reflections of how differently each brain processes information. Through this lens, interventions aren’t “fixes” for broken systems but are instead workouts for the brain - strategic ways to build new connections and reinforce weaker ones.

Throughout our conversation, we highlight why early intervention is so important. The first few years of life are a critical window for development when neural connections form rapidly and learning experiences leave lasting imprints. However, families are too often told to “wait and see,” delaying support until challenges have really taken a toll on a child’s confidence, motivation, and emotional well-being. Dr. Nelkin highlights that early intervention can change that trajectory and can help kiddos not only catch up academically but also develop resilience and self-assurance.

Our discussion challenges the stigma surrounding assessment and diagnosis. We stress that an evaluation doesn’t define a child’s limits but rather brings their strengths and needs to light so that educators and parents can customize support. We also discuss the incredible importance of collaboration between neuropsychologists, teachers, and caregivers. As Dr. Nelkin reminds us, the most powerful word in a child’s journey is “yet” - they haven’t mastered it yet, but with the right support, their potential is truly limitless!

Show Notes:
[2:33] - Dr. Viannae Nelkin highlights the importance of neuroplasticity to focus on children’s potential rather than labels.
[4:00] - Dr. Nelkin offers a comprehensive definition of neuroplasticity.
[6:13] - We learn why Dr. Nelkin regards interventions as extra workouts for the brain.
[9:20] - How can neuroplasticity be nurtured?
[11:12] - Dr. Nelkin regards neuroplasticity as the brain’s superpower.
[14:14] - Dr. Nelkin argues for reframing stigma around assessments and collaborating between neuropsychologists, teachers, and parents.
[17:42] - Early academic intervention helps diverse learners catch up and prevents later mental health struggles.
[20:20] - Building strong early learning foundations can help prevent future academic difficulties.
[21:57] - Dr. Nelkin explains how early educators can identify learning differences and apply strengths-based interventions to help kids.
[24:12] - Dr. Nelkin loves helping very young children.
[26:53] - Hear how specialists support children’s learning at different stages using evidence-based strategies.
[29:33] - Dr. Nelkin reiterates the importance of early intervention.
[33:51] - Dr. Nelkin explains how learning and emotional challenges affect development.
[36:48] - Assessments help reveal why a child struggles and provide parents with hope and understanding.
[37:30] - Dr. Nelkin highlights and explains the importance of the power of “yet.”

Links and Related Resources:

• Episode 185: Late Diagnosis: Why Did I Get Missed? with Dr. Monica Blied

• Episode 203: ADHD and the Gut-Brain Connection: Exploring Integrative Treatments with Sara Langley, MSN, PMHNP-BC

• Episode 214: Private Neuropsychological Evaluation vs. School Evaluation

• Episode 215: How to Support Students Who Struggle with Reading Comprehension - with Dr. Emily Levy

• Episode 233: Body-Based Interventions for Neurodivergent Students with Megan Beardmore, PhD, NCSP

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Connect with Dr. Viannae Nelkin:

• Dr. Viannae Nelkin’s ChildNEXUS Page

• The CNPC Website