Giftedness and Beyond: Navigating Neurodivergence with Dr. Matt Zakreski
Release Date: 01/22/2024
Harnessing Creativity and Adaptation in Education with Michaell Magrutsche
Special Ed on Special Ed
Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be published on Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Michaell Magrutsche Introduction: A fascinating exploration of creativity and systemic thinking in education, featuring insights from Michaell Magrutsche, an advocate for integrating human-centric approaches within educational systems. Discussion Highlights: The importance of recognizing and nurturing individual uniqueness within educational and systemic frameworks was emphasized, with Michaell sharing insights from his personal experiences as a neurodiverse individual. Michaell...
info_outline
Exploring Photobiomodulation for Children with Autism and other Disabilities with Dr. Kyle Daigle
Special Ed on Special Ed
Soon after publication a transcript will be posted on Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Dr. Kyle Daigle Introduction: This episode of "Special Ed on Special Ed" features Dr. Kyle Daigle, an expert in neurological rehabilitation and child development. Dr. Daigle discusses the fascinating world of photobiomodulation, its impact on neurological disorders, and its application in treating children with disabilities such as ADHD and autism. Memorable Quotes: "Photo bio modulation means changing life with light." ~ Dr. Kyle Daigle, explaining the essence of photobiomodulation during the...
info_outline
Parent Advocacy Insights from School Psychologist and Special Education Director Diana Fannon
Special Ed on Special Ed
Shortly after publication, a transcript for this episode will be posted on Advocacy Insights with Diana Fannon Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Diana Fannon, Special Educaiton Director and School Psychologist Introduction: Dana Jonson introduces Diana Fannon, a Director of Special Education and a former school psychologist. Diana shares her personal journey with epilepsy and how it has influenced her approach to advocacy and education. Resources Mentioned: Disability Ed Pros Website: Free Webinar on Demystifying the Path to Eligibility: Instagram: Call to Action: Share the Episode...
info_outline
Neurodiversity Unveiled: Beyond the Should Storm of Parenting with Dr. Alison Escalante
Special Ed on Special Ed
Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website . Host: Dana Jonson Guest: Dr. Alison Escalante INTRODUCTION: In this enlightening episode, Dana Jonson is joined by Dr. Alison Escalante, a board-certified pediatrician renowned for her innovative approach to parenting and child development. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Escalante shares invaluable insights on overcoming the challenges of parenting, particularly within the neurodiverse community. The conversation delves into the intricacies of ADHD, sensory sensitivity,...
info_outline
Transforming Parenting Attachment, Neurobiology, and Thriving Children with Dr. Tamara Soles
Special Ed on Special Ed
Shortly after publication, a TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website. Join host Dana Jonson and Dr. Tamara Soles, a renowned child psychologist and parent coach, for an insightful conversation on "Transforming Parenting - Attachment, Neurobiology, and Thriving Children." Dive into the world of parenting neurodivergent children, the importance of attachment in parenting, and the role of parental self-reflection. Dr. Soles shares her wealth of experience in early childhood mental health, highlighting the impact of attachment and neurobiology on child...
info_outline
Giftedness and Beyond: Navigating Neurodivergence with Dr. Matt Zakreski
Special Ed on Special Ed
Shortly after publication, a TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website, . Episode Title: Giftedness and Beyond: Navigating Neurodivergence with Dr. Matt Zakreski Guest: Dr. Matt Zakreski Host: Dana Jonson This episode offers a deep dive into understanding and supporting neurodivergent children. Dr. Matt's expertise and empathetic approach make this a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in neurodiversity. Introduction: Dana Jonson introduces Dr. Matt Zakreski, a passionate advocate for the neurodivergent community. Dr. Matt's...
info_outline
Mastering Essential Social Skills: A Guide for Teens and Young Adults with Kirt Manecke
Special Ed on Special Ed
Episode Show Notes Shortly after publication, a transcript of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website . Topic: Essential Social and Career Skills for Teens in Today's Digital Era This episode delves into crucial social and career skills that teens and young adults must navigate in our highly digitalized world. Kirt Manecke's insights offer invaluable advice on developing these vital competencies. Guest: Kirt Manecke, Award-Winning Author of "Smile & Succeed for Teens: Must-Know People Skills for Today’s Wired World" Host: Dana Jonson Introduction: Dana...
info_outline
Maximizing Independence for Students with Autism: A conversation with Julie Swanson, The Life Skills Lady
Special Ed on Special Ed
A TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website: shortly after publication. Life skills are the biggest predictor of adult success for individuals with Autism. Yet, many parents and school teams misunderstand the full breadth of life skills, and they often take a back seat in special education planning. We discuss the 3 domains and 10 categories of life skills and their importance to increasing quality of life, how to incorporate life skills into the IEP early, and how to navigate transition and the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education...
info_outline
Demystifying Psychological Evaluations: Insights from Dr. Diana Naddeo
Special Ed on Special Ed
Shortly after publication, a TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website . Introduction: Welcome to our enlightening episode, where we delve into the world of psychological evaluations with Dr. Diana Naddeo, a seasoned Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Known for her comprehensive approach to pediatric psychological assessments, Dr. Naddeo integrates emotions, personality, learning, and behavior to offer a holistic understanding of her patients. Her expertise spans psychiatric diagnosis, educational assessment, and a myriad of treatment approaches aimed at...
info_outline
The Long Term Impact of School Shootings with Deb Del Vecchio-Scully, LPC, NCC, BCN, DCMHS
Special Ed on Special Ed
On the 10th Anniversary of the Sandy Hook Shooting, I speak with Deb Del Vecchio-Scully, a trauma specialist, about the long-term impacts of school shootings.
info_outlineShortly after publication, a TRANSCRIPT of this episode will be added to the show notes on the podcast website, https://SpecialEd.fm.
Episode Title:
Giftedness and Beyond: Navigating Neurodivergence with Dr. Matt Zakreski
Guest: Dr. Matt Zakreski
Host: Dana Jonson
This episode offers a deep dive into understanding and supporting neurodivergent children. Dr. Matt's expertise and empathetic approach make this a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone interested in neurodiversity.
Introduction:
Dana Jonson introduces Dr. Matt Zakreski, a passionate advocate for the neurodivergent community.
Dr. Matt's unique approach combines personal experiences with professional expertise in psychology.
Memorable Quotes:
"Labels are powerful. It matters that you're a zebra, not a weird horse."
~ Dr. Matt on the importance of understanding and embracing neurodiversity.
"If I ever got the chance to do this work, I wanted to work with kids like me."
~ Dr. Matt discusses his motivation to help neurodivergent children.”
"It's like everybody else got the script, but you didn't."
~ Dr. Matt on the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in social settings.
"Kids survive, but not all of them do."
~ Dr. Matt highlights the urgent need for appropriate support for neurodivergent children.
Discussion Highlights:
Performance Cliff: Discussing the challenges gifted children face when academic demands exceed their capabilities.
Masking in Neurodiversity: Exploring the concept of neurodivergent individuals hiding their true selves.
Educational Strategies: Emphasizing the need for individualized education to cater to neurodivergent students.
Dr. Matt's Mission:
Co-founder of The Neurodiversity Collective, which offers therapy, IQ testing, coaching, and consulting specifically for the neurodivergent community.
Advocates for practical strategies to aid in the development and learning of neurodivergent children.
Call to Action:
Encouraging listeners to learn more about The Neurodiversity Collective and its services by visiting their website: https://www.theneurodiversitycollective.com/
FLASHBACK:
Check out a blast from the past: How Exceptional Are You?
In this episode I speak with Cheryl Viirand, super-mom and co-founder of Cajal Academy, a private special education school in CT designed for 2e children. We discuss the unique challenges and gifts of twice-exceptional (2e) children, exploring strategies for educating them in a way that addresses both their high intellectual capabilities and their individual learning needs. We also delve into the role of neuroplasticity in developing programs tailored to 2e children, highlighting the importance of creating an educational environment that nurtures their gifts while supporting their challenges.