This week, we had an engaging and enlightening discussion with Dr. Ashley Smith 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 recent global events in shaping teens' mental health, alongside challenges like academic pressure. She also offers some practical advice on recognizing hidden signs of anxiety, such as perfectionism, avoidance, and emotional dysregulation.

Our conversation also uncovers how modern culture, including the "good vibes only" mindset and misinformation on social media, impacts teens' ability to process their emotions, with Dr. Ashley highlighting early intervention and equipping listeners with tools to help teens build resilience, from modeling healthy coping strategies to encouraging bravery in the face of adversity.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver of teens who suffer from anxiety, this episode provides valuable insights into supporting teens through challenges while fostering their psychological strength.

[2:23] - Anxiety, Dr. Ashley explains, acts as a warning system, but excessive anxiety can disrupt functioning and become a disorder. [5:45] - Dr. Ashley stresses the importance of early intervention for anxiety; it worsens over time and increases the risk of depression and suicide. [7:39] - Anxiety shows up in various ways, including aggression, perfectionism, and avoidance. [10:23] - Phones aren't inherently bad, but social media use can worsen anxiety through comparisons, cyberbullying, and sleep disruption. [12:17] - Dr. Ashley argues that technology and social media have amplified teen anxiety, with factors like COVID-19 and social inequality contributing. [15:14] - Anxiety and depression often exist in tandem, with societal pressures and heavy workloads increasing teens' stress. [18:00] - Anxiety should not be used as an excuse for inaction; building resilience and equipping teens with tools is very important. [19:26] - It's so important for parents to help kids manage anxiety, teach coping skills, and encourage being brave. [22:42] - Modeling anxiety strategies shows kids how to cope, but therapy can offer further support. [23:52] - Ashley points out that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are effective treatments for anxiety. [26:38] - Parents should approach therapy conversations gently, understanding that their teen may not recognize their anxiety. [27:24] - Treating teen anxiety can involve parents using strategies like SPACE, focusing on calm, non-judgmental conversations. [30:21] - Parents of teens with anxiety often feel isolated and judged, but Dr. Ashley encourages listeners that support groups can help. [32:57] - To manage social anxiety, parents should limit exposure to social media to prevent unnecessary stress.

• Anxiety Mini-Course for Parents

• Episode 131: Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Kids and Teens with Dr. Shadab Jannati

• Episode 153: Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with Dr. Jesse Spiegel

• ADAA

• SPACE Treatment

• Dr. Ashley Smith - The Way I See It: A Psychologist's Guide to a Happier Life

• Jonathan Haidt - The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness

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• Ashley's Website

• Ashley's Instagram Profile

• Ashley's TikTok Profile

• Email: [email protected]

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.

This week we sit down with Dr. Emily Levy, founder and director of EBL Coaching, 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 actionable strategies, such as the tri-colored highlighting method, which helps students become active readers by identifying topics, main ideas, and key details.

From auditory techniques for younger learners to practical interventions for high school students tackling complex subjects, Dr. Levy emphasizes the importance of tailored, research-based approaches. She also addresses how attention challenges like ADHD can compound comprehension issues and offers ways to adapt strategies accordingly. So whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about enhancing reading skills, this episode provides valuable insights into fostering a lifelong love of reading and learning.

[1:52] - Many students struggle with reading comprehension, especially during the grade 3 to 4 transition. [4:25] - Research-based strategies like tri-colored highlighting help students actively engage and comprehend material. [6:30] - Dr. Levy discusses how younger students benefit from auditory-focused comprehension strategies, while older students apply strategies to coursework. [8:50] - Teaching students to form mental images while reading significantly enhances their comprehension skills. [10:21] - With the right methods, most students show reading progress within a month, aided by multimedia tools. [12:29] - Dr. Levy argues that active reading strategies improve focus and comprehension but are customized for each child's needs. [14:24] - Parents can enhance comprehension by reading together, asking questions, and encouraging discussions about content. [16:43] - Engaging struggling readers with topics they enjoy builds confidence and fosters a love for reading. [19:12] - Emily points out how encouraging regular reading and providing classroom accommodations supports comprehension and standardized test performance. [22:42] - One-on-one multisensory tutoring supports students who struggle with reading.

• EBL Coaching - Website

• Book a Consultation

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• Get on our Email List

• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia

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.

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 neuropsychological assessments offer a comprehensive view of a child's brain functioning, including cognitive abilities, emotional well-being, and social skills. You can also expect to hear how evaluations provide a middle ground, often focusing on learning profiles and classroom support.

Whether you're a parent trying to understand your child's struggles, an educator seeking clarity, and/or a fellow professional navigating these assessments, this episode provides essential guidance to help determine the best path forward!

[0:53] - Parents often seek evaluations to understand their child's academic or behavioral challenges. [3:08] - Assessments can explore emotional, social, cognitive, or processing factors impacting school performance and peer interactions. [6:02] - School-based evaluations determine eligibility for school-based support but do not provide medical diagnoses like ADHD. [8:38] - We learn how neuropsychological assessments offer a detailed analysis of cognitive, academic, behavioral, and emotional functioning. [11:38] - Children benefit from neuropsychological assessments to address unexplained struggles or track cognitive changes over time. [14:16] - Discover how neuropsychological assessments explore broader brain-behavior relationships. [16:55] - Psychoeducational assessments emphasize academic skills and learning profiles. [18:24] - In closing, parents can seek help from practitioners to determine the most suitable evaluation for their child.

• How to Initiate a Special Education Assessment

• Episode 113: Demystifying the Assessment Process

• Episode 205: Understanding ADHD Assessments

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia

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.

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 surprising findings that reveal that practicing mindfulness with movement, such as Tai Chi produces the strongest results.

Discover practical insights and evidence-based strategies for supporting neurodivergent individuals - and anyone looking to strengthen their executive functioning skills. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious, this episode offers invaluable tools for fostering growth and resilience.

[0:48] - Hear about a recent presentation on executive functioning interventions at a summit on neurodivergence in Los Angeles. [2:06] - Executive functioning involves applying problem-solving skills for goals, with core functions such as inhibitory control. [5:06] - Cognitive flexibility fosters perspective-shifting, enabling problem-solving, planning, and decision-making in daily life. [7:45] - Strengthening executive functions early enhances academic performance, societal opportunities, and long-term success. [10:18] - Research shows impulse control predicts better adulthood outcomes than IQ, gender, or social class. [13:52] - Movement-based mindfulness practices like Tai Chi and Taekwondo most effectively improve executive functioning skills. [16:54] - Non-computerized cognitive training excels due to in-person interaction, boosting executive functioning outcomes. [20:06] - Sports improve executive functioning through attention, self-regulation, and social bonding while fostering joy. [23:34] - Multimodal approaches to executive functioning training reduce inequality and enhance skills across diverse populations.

• What Is Executive Functioning?

• Be the Executive-in-Charge

• Coping with Executive Function Deficits in the Context of Writing

• Episode 11: Executive Functioning 101

• Episode 12: Executive Functioning Support for Struggling Learners with Hannah Ross

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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.

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 important.

We'll also discuss how co-occurring challenges like ADHD and anxiety can make individuals with dyslexia even more vulnerable. Proper interventions not only improve reading skills but also build resilience and boost self-esteem, creating a foundation for positive mental health outcomes.

[1:20] - Research shows that up to 20% of people in the United States have dyslexia.

[2:09] - For years, dyslexia has been misunderstood. There is no link between dyslexia and intelligence.

[3:04] - Children who struggle early in reading are more prone to experience social anxiety and depression.

[4:25] - Many children with dyslexia often have co-occurring challenges like ADHD and anxiety disorders. This makes them even more vulnerable.

[5:50] - With proper interventions, not only can we improve reading skills, but we can boost self-esteem and resilience in children with dyslexia.

[6:31] - Early intervention and diagnosis make a big difference, but common myths and misconceptions slow things down.

[8:21] - Dyslexia is a part of a person's identity but it's not the whole story. Understanding dyslexia is important to understanding its impact on mental health.

• What is Dyslexia?

• Episode 208: Overcoming Dyslexia and Addressing the Reading Crisis with Sally Shaywitz

• Episode 209: How the Science of Reading Can Close Literacy Gaps with Dr. Benjamin Powers

• Episode 115: A Family Approach to Dyslexia with Dr. Lauren

• Episode 183: Unlocking Potential - A Dyslexia Journey with Rosalin Abigail Kyere-Nartey

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety or Dyslexia

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.

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 occupational, speech, and behavioral therapies, providing an approach that encourages cognitive engagement in neurodivergent individuals of all ages.

In this episode, Samantha shares her journey into music therapy, explaining how her passion for music and psychology led her to this unique field. She illustrates how music therapy can create opportunities for clients, and shares anecdotes of children and adults alike experiencing success. Whether it's helping clients develop confidence, manage anxiety, or learn calming strategies, Samantha's work demonstrates music's ability to stimulate multiple parts of the brain. We'll also hear about a typical session, from the range of music styles used to the ways her interventions adapt to each client's needs. Samantha even shares resources and programs for those who might not have access to formal music therapy.

[2:32] - Samantha explains how she found herself in the unique field of music therapy, which for her was the perfect blend of music and psychology.

[3:45] - Music therapy is using music to accomplish non-musical goals, like building social and emotional skills. Music accesses many parts of your brain.

[5:40] - Especially for neurodivergent individuals, music is an excellent tool for stimulating cognitive function.

[6:53] - Samantha describes an example of a non-verbal student who receives music therapy to supplement speech therapy and his successes.

[8:46] - There are many ways that music has given students opportunities to do things they've never been able to do before.

[10:02] - Music therapy supports emotional regulation and flexible thinking.

[12:32] - Learning social skills through music is impactful, especially for neurodiverse individuals who struggle to understand social cues.

[15:40] - Samantha describes a typical session with clients and small groups, including what kinds of music she uses.

[17:32] - The interventions vary greatly per client and group.

[18:53] - Samantha also works with adults. Music therapy has helped clients with confidence struggles and anxiety.

[21:29] - There is a process for music therapists to follow to become board certified.

[22:57] - Samantha shares some programs and resources for those who don't have access to music therapy.

[26:21] - Music helps learn calming strategies.

Samantha is a board-certified Neurologic Music Therapy Fellow and leverages the power of music to support neurodivergent individuals. She is also a Positive, Discipline Parent Educator, providing parents and caregivers with positive, effective parenting strategies while raising their neurodivergent children.

• Email: [email protected]

• Every Brain is Different Podcast

• Episode 29: How Art and Music Can Improve Mood, Decrease Anxiety, and Empower Today's Youth with Dr. Brette Genzel-Derman

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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.

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. Kahn also emphasizes the role of self-regulation, a skill that is valuable for both parents and children. Dr. Kahn describes how parents can model self-regulation by managing their own emotions first, taking a moment to pause before addressing a challenging behavior.

Listen on for practical advice on adjusting expectations and being realistic about the consequences we set for our children. This episode is full of insights to empower you as a parent in handling challenging behaviors with empathy, patience, and in a way that allows your child the room to fall and learn.

[1:56] - Understanding a child's behavior can lead to more positive outcomes for parents and children. Behavior is communication.

[3:02] - As adults, it is hard for us to remember the frustration and other emotions associated with not being understood as children.

[4:44] - When people are upset, especially children, they revert to the behavior of a younger child, which creates frustration for parents.

[7:01] - Self-regulation can be a primary barrier to being able to think and problem solve.

[8:54] - Taking a moment to regulate your emotions as a parent is a form of modeling, as long as you return to the moment and explain.

[10:44] - There's no instruction manual, and parenting a child with learning differences certainly does not have a rule book.

[13:26] - It is incredibly important to parents to understand their child's differences.

[16:07] - As parents, we like to think we have a bag of tricks, but some of these tricks don't work every time.

[18:00] - Social media is great in creating a sense of community. But the information there is not always vetted and can have a lot of misinformation.

[20:58] - Resources at Understood.org are completely free and accessible.

[23:51] - One strategy is to reflect on how realistic our expectations are regarding a child's behavior.

[25:30] - Consequences for behaviors need to also be realistic based on the situation, the child, the behavior, and whether natural consequences take place.

[26:37] - If you can't handle your child being in distress, as a parent, you will be in more distress.

[28:06] - If a parent does not give their child moments of failure, they will feel invincible as they grow up.

[30:16] - It is important for parents to care for themselves. This is also an important modeling opportunity for children.

Dr. Andrew Kahn is Understood's Associate Director of Behavior Change and Expertise, and is a licensed psychologist. He focuses on ADHD, learning differences, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, behavior, executive function, and emotional regulation. For nearly 20 years, Dr. Kahn worked within the public school system providing training, evaluations, direct consultation, and therapeutic support to students, their families, and staff.

• Understood Blog

• Dr. Andrew Kahn on LinkedIn

• Understood.org

• Parenting Behavior with Dr. Andy Kahn: Your Guide to Getting Through the Hard Stuff

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses on ADHD, Dyslexia and Youth Anxiety

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.

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 independent thinking, develop self-esteem and self-advocacy, and fuel academic achievement.

In this episode, you'll learn what the Science of Reading is and how decades of research can give teachers the tools that can truly empower them to improve outcomes for all students. One particularly eye-opening aspect of our conversation is how much researchers have learned about reading from studying individuals with reading and language-based learning disabilities.

Dr. Powers also shares about the systemic challenges educators face, from curriculum selection to a need for comprehensive teacher training in the Science of Reading. He believes each of these barriers presents an opportunity for positive change and encourages educators and parents to take small steps that will lead to meaningful improvements.

[2:02] - Dr. Powers explains what the Science of Reading is and how it differs from other approaches in education. It is a combination of decades of research.

[4:10] - The research of the Science of Reading has come from college departments of psychology, and there is a delay in getting the research to educators.

[6:44] - Part of how we know so much about the reading brain, is because of those with disabilities.

[8:49] - By bringing in evidence-based reading practices, teachers feel empowered and reading instruction outcomes are improved.

[11:12] - Dr. Powers compares early intervention to learning a second language.

[13:59] - Many words that students encounter early in school differ greatly from those in later grade levels when the language shifts to textbook, multisyllabic words.

[17:56] - It is important for parents to ask questions. Some parents hesitate to ask questions to better understand instruction and curriculum.

[19:40] - There are things that we can do as parents to help support reading instruction.

[21:40] - Sometimes administrators are put into a tricky position as they evaluate and vet curriculum.

[23:59] - Each barrier is an opportunity for change.

[26:24] - One huge opportunity is for teachers to be trained in the Science of Reading, no matter what subject they teach. In every class, students are reading.

[29:58] - A student's ability is not a reflection on the teacher's intention.

[32:16] - Taking the first step is what starts a crucial change.

Dr. Benjamin Powers holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from Grenoble Ecole de Management, an Executive MBA from Rochester Institute of Technology, and a Bachelor of Arts from La Salle University. He is a Certified Dyslexia Practitioner, a member of the International Dyslexia Association, and an associate member of the Academy of Orton-Gillingham Practitioners and Educators.

He is Executive Director of The Southport School and CoLAB, Director of Yale's and UCONN Haskins' Global Literacy Hubs, and President of The Dyslexia Foundation. He holds appointments in the Yale School of Medicine's Child Study Center, and in the Departments of Psychology and Educational Psychology at UCONN.

• Email: [email protected]

• Southport Schools Website

• Episode 111: Overcoming Dyslexia and Addressing the Reading Crisis with Sally Shaywitz

• Episode 37: Literacy, a Social Justice Issue with Resha Conroy

• Dyslexia

• Improving Literacy

• Dyslexia Foundation

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• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses for PARENTS on Dyslexia, ADHD or Childhood Anxiety Sessions

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.

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.

Today's guest is Dr. Sally Shaywitz, one of the world's preeminent experts on reading and dyslexia and author of Overcoming Dyslexia. Dyslexia is the most common learning disorder on the planet, affecting about one in five individuals, regardless of age or gender. In today's episode, Dr. Shaywitz shares what is known about dyslexia, the 40 years of data to show what works in overcoming dyslexia, and the sad reality that there is little action being taken to improve screening students and providing the appropriate interventions.

There is so much we can do and it all starts with understanding.

[3:31] - Regardless of decades of research, there are still a lot of misconceptions.

[4:44] - Dyslexia is a very specific learning disability, but the term "learning disability" is very vague.

[6:21] - Through brain imaging, Dr. Shaywitz was able to determine the neuro signature of dyslexia.

[8:21] - Educators, parents, and the individual with dyslexia need to know that they are intelligent and have the intelligence to read, but dyslexia makes it a struggle.

[9:58] - Dyslexia is common in all areas of the world. The consequences are similar in all cultures.

[11:06] - Those with dyslexia can be good readers while still reading slowly.

[12:02] - The most important step is for the student to be identified as dyslexic.

[13:34] - Through her studies, Dr. Shaywitz has nearly 40 years worth of data for both typical readers and dyslexic readers from childhood to adulthood.

[14:50] - Indicators of dyslexia can be seen as early as first grade. Identifying those at risk for developing dyslexia and intervening early can accelerate reading growth.

[16:06] - Screening can take place later, but by then, the window of time for the most reading growth has passed.

[18:03] - Currently, we are scoring worse in previous years in identifying dyslexia in young students.

[19:09] - Dr. Shaywitz describes the screener used to determine the risk of dyslexia.

[21:08] - A universal screener is a solution to this reading crisis.

[22:13] - Given that we know a great deal about dyslexia, it is disgraceful that more isn't being done to support students.

[23:14] - ADHD and anxiety often co-occur with dyslexia.

[24:36] - We often hyperfocus on the struggles, but what are the common strengths for those with dyslexia?

[25:42] - School policies and teacher training surrounding dyslexia need to be changed.

[26:46] - There is also research on individuals incarcerated who are also dyslexic.

[28:06] - Dr. Shaywitz offers a course on Coursera that can be found here.

[30:36] - We need screening, intervention, and education for parents, teachers, and students.

Sally E. Shaywitz, M.D. is the Audrey G. Ratner Professor in Learning Development at Yale University and Co-Founder and Co-Director of the Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity. She is a world renowned scientist and dedicated, compassionate physician who is devoted to bringing ground-breaking scientific advances to benefit dyslexic children and adults.

• Overcoming Dyslexia by Sally Shaywitz, MD

• Overcoming Dyslexia Online Course with Sally Shaywitz, MD

• What is Dyslexia?

• 6 Quick Questions for Parents Concerned About Dyslexia

• ChildNEXUS Dyslexia Mini Course for Parents

Join our email list so that you can receive information about upcoming webinars - ChildNEXUS.com

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.

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 Disorder is no easy path, especially because of the myth that the disorder is rare or nonexistent in girls. In his book, Dr. Hinshaw provides vital information and advice to help you understand and meet your daughter's needs. And in this episode, he does the same. He delivers up-to-date facts on what ADHD is, why symptoms often appear differently in girls than in boys, why girls with ADHD behave the way they do, how to get an accurate diagnosis, and what treatments are most effective.

There is so much pressure on girls to be perfect and for those with ADHD, it feels especially hard to measure up. The social stigmas and academic challenges ADHD presents to girls are often isolating and painful. So listen to Dr. Hinshaw explain the science behind it all and what we can do as parents and educators to help our girls with ADHD.

[2:42] - ADHD is more prevalent in boys than girls, but why?

[3:43] - Because of the difference in development, symptoms of ADHD in girls are often overlooked.

[4:47] - Girls with ADHD tend to show their symptoms differently. Many don't get diagnosed until they are teenagers or even young adults.

[5:48] - ADHD causes problems with the self-regulation of attention.

[7:36] - Some girls may show their hyperactivity verbally instead of physically.

[9:03] - Dr. Hinshaw conducted the largest longitudinal study on girls with ADHD.

[9:57] - In childhood, girls with ADHD are just as impaired as boys. Socially, they tend to get rejected by their peers more so than boys.

[11:46] - Dr. Hinshaw shares the differences in the larger consequences like delinquency, substance use, and mental health.

[13:54] - ADHD increases the risk of self-harm and suicide.

[15:28] - Low self-esteem, difficult peer relationships, and increasing academic struggles, make things challenging in young adulthood too.

[17:21] - Across many studies and types of research, both males and females and the differences between them are not taken into consideration.

[23:20] - Milder conditions or conditions that don't have as many outward indicators, result in more stigma.

[26:53] - Motivation, regulation, and even medication are things to be considered.

[27:48] - What are your daughter's strengths?

[28:51] - One valued and strong friendship can offset the social complications they experience.

[30:05] - Research has shown that parents of girls with ADHD tend to have much more parental stress. Parent management training is beneficial.

Stephen P. Hinshaw is Distinguished Professor of Psychology at UC Berkeley and Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UC San Francisco. His work focuses on developmental psychopathology, child and adolescent mental health (particularly ADHD), and the use of clinical trials to understand underlying mechanisms. He also actively investigates mental illness stigma and interventions to reduce it. Hinshaw has authored over 400 articles, chapters, and commentaries plus 13 books. He has won numerous national and international research awards, including the James McKeen Cattell Fellow Award from the Association for Psychological Science, the Distinguished Scientific Contributions Award from the American Psychological Association, and the Sarnat International Prize in Mental Health from the National Academy of Medicine. He was inducted into the American Academy of Arts and Sciences in 2021. His extensive media coverage includes the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Today Show, CBS Evening News, ABC World News Tonight, and many more.

• Email: [email protected]

• Hinshaw Lab at The Institution of Human Development at Berkeley

• Dr. Stephen Hinshaw's Website

• Getting Ahead of ADHD: What Next-Generation Science Says about Treatments that Work and How you can Make them Work for Your Child by Dr. Joel Nigg

• Is ADHD Overdiagnosed?

• What are the signs of ADHD?

• Understanding ADHD Assessments

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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.