Development Desk

In this episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, we’re breaking down intellectual disabilities (ID)—what it is, what it isn’t, and the common misconceptions that often surround it. We dive into how parents can effectively advocate for their children in school, ensuring they get the support and accommodations they need to thrive.

We also highlight key resources and important waiting lists parents should know about to secure long-term services and support for their child’s future. Whether you’re new to the topic or looking for practical advice, this episode is packed with valuable information to help families navigate life with intellectual disabilities.

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 In this episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, we take a deep dive into anxiety—what it looks like for parents and children and how to manage it in healthy, practical ways. We discuss strategies for addressing your own fears, including worries about big topics like school violence, and how to approach these tough conversations with your kids in ways that leave them feeling more secure and in control.

You’ll also hear actionable advice for managing anxiety’s manifestations, from physical symptoms to emotional overwhelm, so you can better support your child’s mental health while maintaining your own. This episode is full of practical tools and compassionate insights to help families find calm and connection, even in uncertain times.

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In this heartfelt episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, we open up about our experiences as mothers and how motherhood has shaped us both personally and professionally. We reflect on the challenges, the growth, and the lessons we’ve learned while balancing parenting, careers, and everything in between.

We also dive into why it’s essential for moms to prioritize themselves—not just for their own well-being, but to better support their children and families. From self-care to setting boundaries, we share practical tips and encouragement for finding balance and modeling a healthy, empowered mindset for your kids.

Join us for an honest and uplifting conversation about the realities of motherhood and the importance of taking care of yourself along the way.

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In this episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, we tackle one of the biggest challenges for parents and kids alike: navigating homework and evening routines during hectic weeks. We share practical tips to help parents foster success with difficult tasks like completing homework, all while maintaining consistency and positivity.

From establishing structured routines to using positive reinforcement and planning ahead, we offer strategies to meet your child or student where they are and build momentum toward success. Ana shares her candid thoughts on homework (spoiler: she’s not a fan!), while Jessica reflects on her hopes for how families can make this time more manageable and meaningful.

Whether you love or loathe homework time, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you and your kids end the day on a positive note!

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In this episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, the hosts focus on actionable strategies that general education teachers can use to support students with ADHD. From strategic seating arrangements to creating designated spaces for structured movement, the hosts share practical tips to make the classroom a more effective learning environment. They discuss how small adjustments, like clear routines and built-in movement breaks, can enhance focus and engagement not only for students with ADHD but for the entire class. This episode is a guide for educators seeking to create a more inclusive, efficient, and supportive classroom.

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In this episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, the hosts explore the importance of setting clear expectations, boundaries, and limits for adolescents to foster long-term success and independence. They discuss how structure during the teenage years can help guide decision-making, build resilience, and encourage responsible choices. With practical advice on balancing freedom and oversight, this episode provides parents with tools to support their teens in developing self-discipline and accountability, setting them on a path to confident and independent adulthood.

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In this episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, the hosts highlight the comprehensive training of school psychologists and the proactive ways they can enhance student success across the school. They discuss how school psychologists contribute beyond evaluations, by supporting data-driven decision-making, designing targeted interventions, and collaborating with teachers and staff to foster a positive, inclusive environment. The hosts provide insights into how these professionals can drive meaningful, schoolwide improvements through consultation, training, and direct support, helping all students thrive academically and emotionally. Tune in to learn the untapped potential of school psychology in educational settings.

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In this special bonus episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, we’re helping parents make the most of the holiday season before we take a short two-week break. The holidays are the perfect time to foster connection, strengthen family bonds, and build important skills through fun and engaging activities.

We share simple, practical ideas for creating meaningful moments with your kids, whether it’s through games, crafts, traditions, or everyday conversations. You’ll also get tips for keeping routines manageable, supporting emotional regulation during the holiday hustle, and turning downtime into opportunities for growth.

Tune in for a warm and helpful guide to making the holidays memorable and enriching for the whole family!

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In this episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, the hosts dive into the CHC (Cattell-Horn-Carroll) theory of cognitive abilities, explaining how it sheds light on students’ individual strengths and weaknesses within the general education setting. They break down key cognitive areas and discuss how they impact learning, attention, and problem-solving in the classroom. The hosts also offer practical strategies for parents to support and strengthen areas that may not come naturally to their child, emphasizing activities and habits that can boost cognitive development over time. This episode empowers parents with knowledge to help their child reach their full potential.

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In this episode of Brainwaves and Backpacks, the hosts tackle the complexities of dyslexia, focusing on the evaluation process and the unique challenges it presents. They discuss how dyslexia is identified in school settings, exploring the steps involved and why results can sometimes be ambiguous. Through real-life case examples, they illustrate scenarios where evaluations don’t always yield clear answers, highlighting the importance of comprehensive assessments and ongoing support. This episode offers insight into understanding dyslexia and guidance for parents navigating this journey with their child.

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