Connected and Capable

Connected and Capable

By Alisha GroganParentingKids & Family
Download on the App Store

Connected and Capable episodes

  • 20. The surprising reasons kids bite and what you can do about it

    Biting can feel shocking, frustrating, and honestly… a little scary especially if it seems to come out of nowhere.


    Whether your child is biting others, biting themselves, or it’s happening in those intense, dysregulated moments, it’s important to know what's actually what’s going on.


    In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really behind biting, and why it’s often not about hurting someone at all. We’re going to look at the 4 underlying drivers that are easy to miss, especially when it feels random or happens so fast you don’t see it coming.


    I’ll also walk you through3 foundational strategies you can start using right away to help decrease biting and support your child in a safer, more effective way.


    And if you’ve ever felt unsure how to respond in the moment, or like nothing you’ve tried is working consistently this episode is for you!


    Want to go deeper on helping your kid with aggression? A new deep dive workshop is happening this week:


    How to Decrease Aggressive Behaviors, sign up here: https://yourkidstable.com/aggressive-behaviors/


    Key Timestamps:

    03:09 What causes biting

    11:30 Sensory and calming reasons

    16:38 Dysregulation and survival mode

    18:40 Helping your child instead

    22:11 Crunching and safe mouth options

    25:00 When to seek extra support

    26:54 Encouragement and next steps

    MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU


    Ready for a simple plan to overcome the attention, sleep, sensory, and big emotion challenges? I'll show you how for uniquely wired kids 1-18 years old in just 2-5 minutes a day. Join me in The Connection Hive-- https://YourKidsTable.com/TCH


    LET'S CONNECT:


    Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Yourkidstable

    Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Yourkidstable

    Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/Yourkidstable



    If you enjoyed this episode, we'd be so grateful if you left us a review! It's a huge help in encouraging us and letting us know what parents with uniquely wired kids need the most.

    28 min
  • 19. 5 Tricks for Kids that Hate Getting Their Hair Washed

    If hair washing turns into tears, resistance, or full-blown meltdowns in your house… I’m breaking down what’s really going on beneath the surface when kids struggle with having their hair washed, especially for sensory and neurodivergent kids. Because once you understand why this everyday task feels so overwhelming, everything starts to shift.


    We’ll talk about how past experiences, sensory sensitivities, and even hidden systems like the vestibular system can play a bigger role than you might think. And why some kids seem “fine”… until suddenly they’re not.


    I’m also sharing 5 simple, practical strategies you can start using right away to make hair washing feel safer, calmer, and more doable for everyone. 


    If bath time has been a battle, this episode will help you look at it differently—and take the first step toward changing it.


    Mentioned in this episode:


    How to Decrease Aggressive Behaviors Workshop: https://yourkidstable.com/aggressive-behaviors/

    Vestibular sensitivity podcast episode


    Key Timestamps:

    00:00 Why hair washing can turn into a meltdown

    01:20 What’s really going on (it’s not just behavior)

    03:30 The hidden sensory trigger most parents miss

    08:00 Strategy #1 that changes everything fast

    12:30 Small tweaks that make a big difference

    17:10 The step most parents skip (but matters most)

    MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU


    Ready for a simple plan to overcome the attention, sleep, sensory, and big emotion challenges? I'll show you how for uniquely wired kids 1-18 years old in just 2-5 minutes a day. Join me in The Connection Hive-- https://YourKidsTable.com/TCH


    LET'S CONNECT:


    Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Yourkidstable

    Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Yourkidstable

    Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/Yourkidstable



    If you enjoyed this episode, we'd be so grateful if you left us a review! It's a huge help in encouraging us and letting us know what parents with uniquely wired kids need the most.

    24 min
  • 18. Kid Stuck in Negative Thinking? Do this Today.

    Does your child quickly jump to:


    “I’m bad.”

    “I never do anything right.”

    “Everything always goes wrong.”


    That kind of negative thinking can be exhausting for kids and heartbreaking for parents to watch.


    In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s often really happening underneath these thought patterns in kids with ADHD, anxiety, sensory needs, and other uniquely wired challenges.


    I’m also sharing a simple shift you can start using today to help your child move out of all-or-nothing thinking, build confidence, and feel more emotionally steady.


    If your child is hard on themselves, melts down after mistakes, or always expects the worst, this episode will help you see them differently and know where to start next.


    Key Timestamps:

    02:18 What’s really happening under “I’m bad” thoughts

    05:12 The hidden link between ADHD, anxiety, and self-talk

    09:45 Why logic doesn’t work in the moment

    13:08 The first thing to do before teaching confidence

    16:42 A simple script to shift black-and-white thinking

    22:05 How to build self-esteem in everyday moments


    Grab your free printable copy of our 5 Big Calming Techniques for Big Emotions + Dysregulation-- https://yourkidstable.com/emotions-printable/


    If you're a therapist join me inside our Therapist membership and unlock hours of CEU's, treatment planning center, a community to collaborate and more: yourkidstable.com/taam/

    MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU


    Ready for a simple plan to overcome the attention, sleep, sensory, and big emotion challenges? I'll show you how for uniquely wired kids 1-18 years old in just 2-5 minutes a day. Join me in The Connection Hive-- https://YourKidsTable.com/TCH


    LET'S CONNECT:


    Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Yourkidstable

    Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Yourkidstable

    Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/Yourkidstable



    If you enjoyed this episode, we'd be so grateful if you left us a review! It's a huge help in encouraging us and letting us know what parents with uniquely wired kids need the most.

    27 min
  • 17. 3 Steps for When Your Too Dysregulated to Help Your Kid

    We hear it from parents so often... how do I help my kid when I'm dysregulated myself? That's a wise question and one many are wrestling with.  


    In this episode I'm sharing why we often feel like we're falling short, what to do about the dysregulation you feel, and 3 simple steps you can start today! 


    We'll also talk about why neurodivergent parents may feel more dysregulation. There's hope, tune it to get started. 


    Key Timestamps:

    02:23 Regulation and nervous system

    09:17 Three steps to start

    13:05 Notice your dysregulation

    16:54 Use a calming tool

    22:17 Fill your cup daily

    24:52 Slow down and recharge

    26:33 Encouragement and next support


    Grab your free printable copy of our 5 Big Calming Techniques for Big Emotions + Dysregulation-- https://yourkidstable.com/emotions-printable/


    Parent Instagram Reel: https://www.instagram.com/p/DXNKZ_bD9Oh/

    MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU


    Ready for a simple plan to overcome the attention, sleep, sensory, and big emotion challenges? I'll show you how for uniquely wired kids 1-18 years old in just 2-5 minutes a day. Join me in The Connection Hive-- https://YourKidsTable.com/TCH


    LET'S CONNECT:


    Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Yourkidstable

    Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Yourkidstable

    Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/Yourkidstable



    If you enjoyed this episode, we'd be so grateful if you left us a review! It's a huge help in encouraging us and letting us know what parents with uniquely wired kids need the most.

    28 min
  • 16. The Truth about Sensory Processing Disorder

    Sensory processing disorder is something you’ve probably heard before… maybe from a therapist, a teacher, or even your pediatrician. But here’s the tricky part—it’s not actually an official diagnosis.


    And that can make this whole topic feel confusing and overwhelming.


    In this episode, I’m breaking down what sensory processing really is, what we mean when we say “sensory processing disorder,” and why it matters so much for your child’s day-to-day life.


    Because sensory isn’t just about being “sensitive” or “picky.” It’s how your child’s brain is taking in and making sense of the world around them—everything from movement and touch to sounds, food, and even how their body feels on the inside.


    When that system isn’t working smoothly, it can show up as meltdowns, trouble focusing, extreme picky eating, constant movement, or avoiding things that seem simple.


    Most importantly, I want you to walk away understanding what’s really going on underneath your child’s behavior—because when you see it through that lens, it changes how you respond and what actually helps.


    Get Started with Supporting Your Kid's Sensory Needs with this freebie: https://yourkidstable.com/sensoryessentials/


    Key Timestamps:

    00:00 Introduction to Sensory Processing

    01:51 How Sensory Processing Works

    07:16 Official Diagnosis Overview

    09:17 Impact on Daily Life

    13:49 Overlap with Other Diagnoses

    16:04 Recognizing Sensory Processing Issues

    20:33 Support and Resources Available

    MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU


    Ready for a simple plan to overcome the attention, sleep, sensory, and big emotion challenges? I'll show you how for uniquely wired kids 1-18 years old in just 2-5 minutes a day. Join me in The Connection Hive-- https://YourKidsTable.com/TCH


    LET'S CONNECT:


    Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Yourkidstable

    Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Yourkidstable

    Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/Yourkidstable



    If you enjoyed this episode, we'd be so grateful if you left us a review! It's a huge help in encouraging us and letting us know what parents with uniquely wired kids need the most.

    22 min
  • 15. How to Help Toe Walkers Walk on Their Whole Foot👣

    Toe walking seems like an odd habit, and while it can become habitual there are almost always underlying reasons kids are toe walking! 


    Getting to the bottom of what's causing your kid to tip toe all over the place is key for helping them walk on their whole foot, which is important because long term toe walking can cause physical issues.  


    But, I do have one thing you should no matter why your kid is walking on their toes and several more ways you can start helping your kid right now! We'll also talk about what to do when you get conflicting advice from professionals about how to handle toe walking! 


    If this episode was helpful leave us review, we greatly appreciate every single one. 


    Links Mentioned in This Episode


    10 Sensory Red Flags that are Easy to Miss

    Retained Primitive Reflexes 101


    Key Timestamps:

    2:00 The real question you need to ask

    4:00 A surprising reason kids do this

    6:00 The hidden driver most miss

    9:00 When it’s not just one cause

    12:30 What actually helps (and what doesn’t)

    17:30 Where to start first


    Grab your free printable copy of our 5 Big Calming Techniques for Big Emotions + Dysregulation-- https://yourkidstable.com/emotions-printable/


    MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU


    Ready for a simple plan to overcome the attention, sleep, sensory, and big emotion challenges? I'll show you how for uniquely wired kids 1-18 years old in just 2-5 minutes a day. Join me in The Connection Hive-- https://YourKidsTable.com/TCH


    LET'S CONNECT:


    Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Yourkidstable

    Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Yourkidstable

    Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/Yourkidstable



    If you enjoyed this episode, we'd be so grateful if you left us a review! It's a huge help in encouraging us and letting us know what parents with uniquely wired kids need the most.

    23 min
  • 14. 5 (More) Executive Functioning Skills Uniquely Wired Kids Struggle With

    So often we see gaps in executive functioning skills as personality traits. Or, they frustrate the heck out of us. In my own parenting journey understanding my kid was struggling with executive functioning AND wasn't just a difficult kid, changed everything.  


    That's why it's important to understand more of these executive functioning skills in this part 2 edition of our episodes dedicated to executive functioning skills (see episode 5 for part 1.


    You'll also learn how to start helping your kid strengthen these skills, because yes that is very possible! The brain is amazing like that. 


    Join me for this surprising episode and then let us know if anything you surprised you about your own kid! 


    Get detailed strategies in our new free event, Executive Functionings week (starts April 13): https://yourkidstable.com/efweek


    Key Timestamps:


    01:49 Executive Functioning in Adults

    03:44 Self-Control Explained

    06:56 Understanding Impulsivity

    11:58 Organization as a Skill

    14:14 Planning and Sequencing

    20:11 Time Management Challenges

    26:15 Importance of Self-Awareness

    28:42 Structure and Routine Benefits


    Grab your free printable copy of our 5 Big Calming Techniques for Big Emotions + Dysregulation-- https://yourkidstable.com/emotions-printable/

    MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU


    Ready for a simple plan to overcome the attention, sleep, sensory, and big emotion challenges? I'll show you how for uniquely wired kids 1-18 years old in just 2-5 minutes a day. Join me in The Connection Hive-- https://YourKidsTable.com/TCH


    LET'S CONNECT:


    Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Yourkidstable

    Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Yourkidstable

    Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/Yourkidstable



    If you enjoyed this episode, we'd be so grateful if you left us a review! It's a huge help in encouraging us and letting us know what parents with uniquely wired kids need the most.

    37 min
  • 13. Stop Using Timeouts and Lecturing with Neurodivergent Kids: Do this Instead!

    Neurodivergent kids often struggle with following directions, listening, and self-control. What are we to do? We worry they aren't learning and want them to understand consequences. Both are very valid. In this episode learn why these popular parenting techniques we sometimes use intentionally and often out of desperation backfire with kids that have ADHD, Autism, or sensory needs. 


    Full disclosure lecturing is something I struggle with using with my ADHD kid. But, there's something going on under the difficult behaviors, and if it's not addressed the behaviors will likely only happen more often. Come learn what powerful shift can change how your kid acts, how they feel about themselves, and even grow skills with examples for preschoolers to teens.  


    Get a seat in our new free Executive Functioning Week with daily specific strategies that help kids listen, regulate, and follow directions here: YourKidsTable.com/efweek


    Key Timestamps:

    00:25 – Why timeouts don’t work the way we think

    03:10 – What’s actually happening in your child’s brain

    06:45 – The mistake most parents don’t realize they’re making

    10:20 – Why lecturing backfires (even when it feels right)

    14:05 – The shift that changes everything

    18:40 – What your child actually needs in that moment

    23:15 – A better way to respond (that actually works)


    Grab your free printable copy of our 5 Big Calming Techniques for Big Emotions + Dysregulation-- https://yourkidstable.com/emotions-printable/

    MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU


    Ready for a simple plan to overcome the attention, sleep, sensory, and big emotion challenges? I'll show you how for uniquely wired kids 1-18 years old in just 2-5 minutes a day. Join me in The Connection Hive-- https://YourKidsTable.com/TCH


    LET'S CONNECT:


    Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Yourkidstable

    Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Yourkidstable

    Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/Yourkidstable



    If you enjoyed this episode, we'd be so grateful if you left us a review! It's a huge help in encouraging us and letting us know what parents with uniquely wired kids need the most.

    36 min
  • 12. 4 Ways to Improve ADHD Symptoms (That No One Talks About!)

    Most parents are told that ADHD treatment begins and ends with medication, which can be helpful for some kids. But there’s so much more to the story. (Grab a spot in the free Executive Functioning Week for parents below).


    In this episode we talk about four powerful — and often overlooked — ways to improve ADHD symptoms in kids.


    You’ll learn why ADHD is actually more than just poor attention, so much so that "ADHD" isn't really the best name for this diagnosis, how sensory needs and hyperactivity are closely connected, ADHD super-powers, and 4 ways we can support kids with ADHD so they can regulate, focus, and thrive.


    If you’re parenting a child with ADHD (or suspect your child may have it), this episode is for you!  


    Links Mentioned in the Show:


    Free Executive Functioning Week: 5 Days to Calming Big Emotions, Improving Focus, and Building Self-Control for Uniquely Wired Kids. 


    SIGN UP HERE: https://YourKidsTable.com/efweek


    Unlocking ADHD Workshop (Included in memberships below): 


    The Connection Hive Membership: https://YourKidsTable.com/tch


    Therapist Membership / Therapist All-Access: https://YourKidsTable.com/taam


    Key Timestamps:

    03:51 – The three ADHD subtypes explained

    06:48 – Is hyperactivity ADHD or sensory?

    09:21 – ADHD is so much more than attention...

    17:26 – Why medication isn’t the only support

    19:47 – Executive functioning are skills that can be strengthened

    22:58 – What the research says

    27:46 – The nutrition connection


    Grab your free printable copy of our 5 Big Calming Techniques for Big Emotions + Dysregulation-- https://yourkidstable.com/emotions-printable/

    MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU


    Ready for a simple plan to overcome the attention, sleep, sensory, and big emotion challenges? I'll show you how for uniquely wired kids 1-18 years old in just 2-5 minutes a day. Join me in The Connection Hive-- https://YourKidsTable.com/TCH


    LET'S CONNECT:


    Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Yourkidstable

    Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Yourkidstable

    Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/Yourkidstable



    If you enjoyed this episode, we'd be so grateful if you left us a review! It's a huge help in encouraging us and letting us know what parents with uniquely wired kids need the most.

    32 min
  • 11. Vestibular Sensitivities: The Overlooked Issue Affecting Reading, Balance, and Anxiety

    If your child avoids swings, hates being tipped back to wash their hair, or panics when their feet leave the ground… there may be more going on than simple fear.


    In this episode, I’m diving into vestibular sensitivities — one of the most overlooked sensory challenges that can quietly affect everything from balance and coordination to reading, attention, and anxiety.


    You’ll learn what the vestibular system actually does, the subtle signs of gravitational insecurity, and why some kids feel completely unsafe when their body moves in space.


    I’ll also share a powerful real-life story of a child who went from avoiding movement completely to sledding down a hill, and what made that change possible.


    If your child seems fearful of movement or struggles with balance, this episode may connect a lot of dots.


    Episodes mentioned in the show:

    2. Retained Primitive Reflexes: What Every Parent of A Uniquely Wired Kid Needs to Know

    3. If Your Kid Has Sensory "Issues," You Need to Hear This. 


    Get more help in The Connection Hive for Parents

    Therapists, learn reflexes + sensory in the Therapist All Access Membership


    Key Timestamps:

    02:57 – What the vestibular sense actually does

    08:06 – When kids don’t feel safe moving

    11:09 – Signs parents often miss

    17:28 – The reflex that may be causing it

    21:10 – Should we just avoid movement?

    30:29 – A real-life breakthrough story


    Grab your free printable copy of our 5 Big Calming Techniques for Big Emotions + Dysregulation-- https://yourkidstable.com/emotions-printable/ 

    MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU


    Ready for a simple plan to overcome the attention, sleep, sensory, and big emotion challenges? I'll show you how for uniquely wired kids 1-18 years old in just 2-5 minutes a day. Join me in The Connection Hive-- https://YourKidsTable.com/TCH


    LET'S CONNECT:


    Instagram: https://Instagram.com/Yourkidstable

    Facebook: https://Facebook.com/Yourkidstable

    Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/Yourkidstable



    If you enjoyed this episode, we'd be so grateful if you left us a review! It's a huge help in encouraging us and letting us know what parents with uniquely wired kids need the most.

    37 min

About Connected and Capable

From the publisher's feed

A podcast for parents of uniquely wired kids—kids with sensory needs, ADHD, big emotions, anxiety, or executive functioning challenges.
Hosted by pediatric occupational therapist and mom Alisha…