Deborah MacNamara, a highly experienced developmentalist, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the field of parenting and child development. With a PhD and years of working alongside renowned author Gordon Neufeld, she has dedicated her career to understanding how children grow and thrive. Deborah's extensive background in academia, counseling, and teaching has allowed her to deeply immerse herself in the study of human development for nearly two decades. As a faculty member at the esteemed Neufeld Institute, she continues to contribute to the field through her research, writing, and online presence. Drawing from her personal experiences with highly sensitive children, Deborah's work resonates with families of complex kids, providing them with valuable insights and guidance.Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Deborah MacNamara about adapting as a parent.Top 12 Tips To Help Your Complex KidsGot complex kids? Yeah, so do we. Parenting a complex kid can be frustrating, overwhelming, and isolating. It can also be incredibly rewarding -- with the right help and guidance! This FREE insider's guide  from the experts at ImpactParents includes our top 12 tips to help you create a calm, peaceful home and guide your kids to become more independent every day. Here is what to expect on this week’s show:The developmentalist approach, explained by Deborah McNamara, focuses on understanding human development and its connection to parenting. This approach emphasizes helping children grow and thrive, and understanding what parents need to do to support their child's development. Parenting complex kids can be a challenging and rewarding journey. These complex kids require parents to adapt and be flexible to understand their unique needs. Parenting, in general, is an adaptive endeavor, but it becomes even more apparent when raising children with complex needs. The key to adaptation lies in keeping our hearts warm and maintaining a sense of care and patience, even in the face of frustration and stress.Neurodivergent development explores the challenges faced by parents of neurodivergent children. Deborah emphasizes the importance of creating supportive environments and providing structure, routine, and boundaries to help these children develop their identity and navigate the world. Trial and error is crucial for neurodivergent individuals to navigate their lives and find their passions. By giving them opportunities to be the answer to something, such as through volunteer work or involvement in a community, they can develop a sense of identity and learn appropriate behavior. The topic of holding on to kids while allowing them to let go explores the long-term relationship between parents and their children. Deborah emphasizes the importance of this throughout their development, from infancy to adulthood. She finds inspiration in Gordon and Gabbar's book, "Hold on to Your Kids." Holding on to our children means providing support and guidance, even when we are not physically present. It involves instilling our values and fostering a healthy and independent relationship.Links Mentioned:Recognizing and Managing Stress Triggers as Parents If They would Just... Guiding Kids to Take Ownership of Their Own AgendaWhat Support do ADHD'ers Need? Book Smart or Street Smart?What's So Wrong with Immaturity? Neufeld InstituteGet your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools https://impactparents.com/gift Connect with Impact Parents:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents/ @impactparentsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParent@impactparentLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents/@impactparentsX (fkaTwitter): https://twitter.com/ImpactParents@impactparentsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes in the world of ADHD, we parents come across a medical provider who really, really 'gets it.' This is one of those times! Dr. Aaron Dodini understands the nuances of diagnosing and treating ADHD, and has thoughts about the future of this complex condition. This conversation is a must listen for anyone with kids or adults who have ADHD in your family!Dr. Aaron Dodini is a seasoned clinical psychologist with over 15 years of experience in diagnosing and treating ADHD, particularly focusing on high achieving professionals and athletes who may have been overlooked in the diagnosis process. Aaron firmly believes in a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating ADHD, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. He advocates for a combination of medication, behavioral interventions, coaching, therapy, and creating supportive environments to address the various aspects of ADHD. His perspective is shaped by his extensive experience and his passion for empowering individuals to embrace their ADHD as a catalyst for growth and excellence.Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Aaron Dodini about ADHD and treatmentParenting is Leadership Parenting is a leadership opportunity. With the "Parenting is Leadership" Guide from ImpactParents, two frameworks and a dozen core competencies will guide you to up-level your parenting... and improve the most important relationships of your life. Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Aaron emphasizes the importance of working with families, systems, and communities to provide support. He believes that a proper diagnosis for adults is crucial for improving their lives and their ability to support their children. When parents receive the support they need, they can reinforce support for their kids, leading to greater intimacy within the family. According to Aaron, there is no cure for ADHD, but a combination of approaches can be beneficial. Medication is important, but should be complemented with behavioral training, therapies, and exercises. Aaron emphasizes the importance of using a whole toolbox of strategies to address the various aspects of ADHD. Aaron explains, ADHD can be a catalyst for personal growth and excellence. Embracing a diagnosis of ADHD can lead to thriving and personal development. Therapy can help adults navigate the emotional aspects and come to terms with their diagnosis, although it may not address all executive function challenges. Aaron emphasizes the importance of self-love, compassion, and understanding oneself better, which therapy can facilitate. Ultimately, an ADHD diagnosis can serve as an invitation to self-awareness and growth.Many of our defense mechanisms and ways of motivating ourselves that once served us well may no longer be effective as we evolve. Elaine mentions the "stick" that adults with ADHD have used to beat themselves up in order to be successful. While this coping mechanism may have worked in the past, it is important for individuals to learn to put the stick down and find healthier ways to motivate themselves. Connect with Aaron:Website: www.dodini.comWebsite: www.onlineadultadhd.comGet your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools https://impactparents.com/gift Connect with Impact Parents:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents/ @impactparentsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParent@impactparentLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents/@impactparentsX (fkaTwitter): https://twitter.com/ImpactParents@impactparentsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster about parental well-being.Ten Self Care Tips for ParentsDo you give and give until you give yourself away? You’re not alone! In this FREEguide for caring (and exhausted!) parents, you may recognize some of the key tips -- but it’s always good to have a reminder! And then there will be some new ideas to help you put yourself back on your list and find a little more peace and joy in family life. Sure, your kids may need more than other kids. But that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve the care you need to keep helping your kids!Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Parenting challenges can significantly impact the well-being and emotions of parents. Diane and Elaine explore the theme that parents often become stressed, overwhelmed, and experience a range of emotions due to their focus on their children. They emphasize the importance of parents taking care of themselves in order to effectively engage with their children. They discuss the need for parents to be in a good mental state to problem solve and navigate the complexities of parenting.Diane shares her personal experience of realizing her stress while watching home videos. She struggled to control the chaos in her life. Elaine adds that stress can lead to offensive or defensive approaches, such as shutting down or becoming aggressive. Diane explains the stages of dysregulation, where emotions and logical thinking compete in the brain. This often happens when parents feel overwhelmed, worried, or burdened by guilt or perfectionism. Elaine emphasizes that parents may react to stress in various ways, including internalizing, engaging in unhealthy behaviors, or resorting to explosions, blaming, and micromanaging. Prevention is crucial for maintaining emotional well-being and avoiding reactive behaviors. Diane and Elaine discuss the importance of recognizing triggers and staying aware to prevent escalation. Elaine shares an interesting perspective about how children and adults may already be in a triggered state, making explosive reactions more likely.Emotional regulation is a crucial skill that helps individuals manage their emotions and respond to challenging situations in a healthy manner. According to Diane and Elaine, it's important to be gentle with oneself when it comes to emotional regulation. They suggest taking a moment to breathe, reclaim your brain, and figure out what you need in that moment. They also highlight the importance of finding strategies that work for you, such as taking a walk or engaging in self-care activities. Ultimately, emotional regulation is about noticing and navigating your emotions.Links:Self-Awareness, Self-Regulation, & Self-ManagementWhat Story are You Telling Yourself?RESENTMENT! Understanding, Managing, and Overcoming ItWhat Story are You Telling Yourself?Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools https://impactparents.com/gift Connect with Impact Parents:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents/ @impactparentsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParent@impactparentLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents/@impactparentsX (fkaTwitter): https://twitter.com/ImpactParents@impactparentsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Using music and humor as her instruments, Amy orchestrates powerful moments of connection that leave people feeling encouraged and empowered. As a board-certified music therapist and a Certified Humor Professional, Amy conducts meaningful experiences that build community and center on the joy that music adds to our lives. One of her proudest accomplishments is being the musical director of Grace Notes Community Singers, an intergenerational performing arts organization for people living with dementia and their caregivers. Members are inspired to move beyond their heavy responsibilities to a place of relief and new possibilities. Amy has been a music therapist for over 20 years and holds dual master’s degrees in music therapy and music education. She is the owner of Oak Song Music Therapy and Consulting Services in San Antonio, TX.Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Amy Standridge about music, humor, and self care.Motivation GuideIn this FREE insider’s guide from the experts at ImpactParents, join with parents all over the world who are successfully using these 3 steps and 7 quick tips to motivate their children and teens to respond to requests without meltdowns, distractions, or pushback. Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Amy has dedicated over 20 years to this profession finding purpose in helping others through music. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when face-to-face interactions were limited, Amy explored therapeutic humor as an alternative way to fulfill her passion. She emphasizes the importance of laughter and playfulness in building relationships and motivating individuals, whether through activities like singing or finding coping strategies for self-care. Amy emphasizes using humor to build strong bonds with children and motivate them. Engaging in joyful activities like singing or sharing jokes creates a sense of connection and strengthens relationships. Incorporating humor into self-care routines can also provide coping strategies during challenging times. By intentionally seeking out humor and creating a structure for fun conversations, parents can cultivate a light-hearted and joyful atmosphere in their homes.Amy explains humor is a source of joy and entertainment with numerous benefits for our health and well-being. Engaging in humor and fun activities with loved ones helps build strong bonds and releases oxytocin, creating a sense of connection and happiness. Humor also serves as a powerful tool for self-care, providing coping strategies during challenging times. According to Amy, laughter yoga has numerous health benefits and can be a powerful tool for connecting with others. The practice involves finding your own sense of humor and being authentic in your laughter. It can be used as a way to bond with family members, especially children, through sharing funny memes, watching funny movies, or playing games that lead to laughter. Connect with Amy:https://www.facebook.com/oaksongmtGet your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools https://impactparents.com/gift Connect with Impact Parents:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents/ @impactparentsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParent@impactparentLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents/@impactparentsX (fkaTwitter): https://twitter.com/ImpactParents@impactparentsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse LeBeau is one of today’s most highly sought after youth speakers and teen coaches. His unlikely underdog story has inspired millions of teens through his speaking, best-selling books and youth programs. He is one of the worlds premiere basketball trick artists and is regularly featured on TV, film, and international tours. Jesse’s new reality series ‘The LeBeau Show’ allows viewers the chance to follow him around the country and see firsthand the major impact he is having on youth.Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Jesse LeBeau about motivation and self care.Ten Self Care Tips for ParentsDo you give and give until you give yourself away? You’re not alone! In this FREE guide for caring (and exhausted!) parents, you may recognize some of the key tips -- but it’s always good to have a reminder! And then there will be some new ideas to help you put yourself back on your list and find a little more peace and joy in family life. Sure, your kids may need more than other kids. But that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve the care you need to keep helping your kids!Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Finding strengths and pursuing passions is crucial for personal growth and fulfillment. Jesse emphasizes the importance of allowing children to explore their own interests and not forcing them into preferred activities. He advises parents to support their children's strengths and help them find activities they are passionate about. Jesse emphasizes the power of attitude. He learned the significance of attitude from his father, who taught him by observing how athletes reacted to setbacks in sports games. Instead of focusing on their successes, they paid attention to how they handled failures and disappointments. This lesson had a profound effect on Jesse's life, teaching him that while we can't always control what happens to us, we can control our attitude towards it. By becoming the master of our own attitude, we can live a happier, more successful, and fulfilled life. Jesse stresses how the importance of self-care and grace are essential for maintaining mental and emotional well-being. He highlights the importance of prioritizing self-care and adopting a positive attitude, even in the face of adversity. Jesse acknowledges that everyone's experiences and backgrounds differ, but it is crucial to empathize with others and recognize the validity of their struggles. He encourages individuals, regardless of age or circumstance, to understand that they are not alone in their challenges and that seeking resources and support is a positive step. Jesse discusses balancing independence and parental guidance is a complex task for parents in today's digital age. One of the biggest challenges parents face is managing their children's relationship with technology, particularly smartphones and social media. Setting systems in place to monitor screen time and access is important, as the allure of endless scrolling and the influence of online content can negatively impact a child's life.Connect with Jesse:Website: https://theattitudeadvantage.com/welcome/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jesselebeautiktoksInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesselebeau/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5uw99zoDpcbs9I96N5jG9AFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thrivingteensLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-lebeau-243b4636/Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools https://impactparents.com/gift Connect with Impact Parents:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents/ @impactparentsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParent@impactparentLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents/@impactparentsX (fkaTwitter): https://twitter.com/ImpactParents@impactparentsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode about nagging.Ten Tips for Calm and Confident Parenting of Complex KidsParenting complex kids can be difficult, even mind-numbing at times. In this FREE Guide you’ll find clear, quick guidance to help you calm the chaos and more confidently prepare your child for greater independence and success! Learn techniques parents all over the world are using to reduce friction and (believe it!) rediscover the joy of parenting. Here is what to expect on this week’s show:The topic of shifting from nagging to collaborative problem-solving in parenting is a crucial one, as it can significantly impact the dynamics of parent-child relationships. Elaine believes in a more playful approach to parenting, while Diane acknowledges that nagging often stems from a place of fear and anxietyNagging can be detrimental to relationships, causing annoyance and a breakdown in communication. Elaine and Diane explore the negative effects of nagging and discuss alternative ways to address concerns. Elaine and Diane dive into the role of executive function support in parenting. They share insights on shifting from nagging to a collaborative approach, empowering children to take ownership. Elaine and Diane explore the power of shifting from nagging to reminding with permission. Learn how a simple reminder system transformed one family's dynamic and created a more positive approach to reminding. Links Mentioned:Effective Agreements 4 Phases of Parenting:  How to Support Without Enabling If They Would Just...Guiding Kids to Take Ownership of Their Own AgendaImpact Members: Be sure to check out the Webinar Library for Elaine’s webinar on Family MeetingsGet your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools https://impactparents.com/gift Connect with Impact Parents:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents/ @impactparentsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParent@impactparentLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents/@impactparentsX (fkaTwitter): https://twitter.com/ImpactParents@impactparentsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parenting With Impact with Elaine Taylor-Klaus and Diane Dempster Episode 146 Simple, Safe & Connected -- Tips to Navigate Big Emotions with Sonali Vongchusiri Sonali Vongchusiri is founder of Forward Together Parenting and the "Raising Your Strong-Willed Child" series. She often says that she WAS that kid and now she HAS three of those kids. As a parent coach she supports parents in shifting from "parenting perfectly" to "parenting with personality" -- helping parents step off the emotional roller-coaster, simplify parenting and stabilize their relationship with their kids by focusing on their needs as well as their kids.Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Sonali Vongchusiri about navigating big emotions.Parenting is Leadership Parenting is a leadership opportunity. With the "Parenting is Leadership" Guide from ImpactParents, two frameworks and a dozen core competencies will guide you to up-level your parenting... and improve the most important relationships of your life.Link: https://impactparents.pages.ontraport.net/leadership-guide?utm_campaign=funnel&utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=episode&utm_content=leadership Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Sonali shares her experiences and the difficulties she faced in her relationship with her children. Sonali realized she needed to find her own approach to parenting, one that aligned with her needs and the needs of her children. She emphasizes the importance of connection and sharing truth with ourselves and our kids, rather than trying to fit into a mold of what parenting should look like. Sonali emphasizes the challenge of meeting both parent and child needs simultaneously. She suggests acknowledging both the child and parent's needs instead of trying to fix the situation. One effective approach she recommends is using nonverbal communication.She expresses the importance of feeling safe and stable in any emotional situation, whether dealing with a frustrated child or facing overwhelming circumstances. Sonali introduces the SHUAVE Process, which involves accepting and approving of oneself, aligning with emotions, and feeling a sense of belonging and validation. Connect with Sonali Vongchusiri:https://www.forwardtogetherparenting.comhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/raisingyourstrongwilledchildhttps://www.instagram.com/raisingyourstrongwilledchild/Get your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools https://impactparents.com/gift Connect with Impact Parents:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents/ @impactparentsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParent@impactparentLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents/@impactparentsX (fkaTwitter): https://twitter.com/ImpactParents@impactparentsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leslie Josel, a renowned expert in effective communication strategies for parenting complex kids, has over two decades of experience in this field. Leslie's perspective on this topic is rooted in her belief that effective communication is the most crucial aspect for parents to understand. She emphasizes that all issues related to parenting complex kids ultimately boil down to how parents communicate with their children. Drawing from her personal journey as a parent to a child with ADHD and executive dysfunction, Leslie acknowledges that parenting complex kids can be overwhelming, but she underscores the need for parents to educate themselves and find ways to effectively communicate with their children. She also highlights the importance of translating complex medical and therapeutic language into conversational parenting language to make it more accessible for parents.Listen to this Parenting With Impact episode with Leslie Josel about communication with complex kids.Ten Tips for Calm and Confident Parenting of Complex KidsParenting complex kids can be difficult, even mind-numbing at times. In this FREE Guide you’ll find clear, quick guidance to help you calm the chaos and more confidently prepare your child for greater independence and success! Learn techniques parents all over the world are using to reduce friction and (believe it!) rediscover the joy of parenting.https://impactparents.pages.ontraport.net/calm-confident-tipsheet?utm_campaign=Podcast&utm_source=episode&utm_medium=cta&utm_content=calmHere is what to expect on this week’s show:Leslie shares her journey of becoming an accidental entrepreneur. She explains how effective communication and support can make a difference in raising complex kids.Leslie and Elaine dive into the crucial role of brain activation in parenting and effective communication with children. Leslie shares insights on medication, meditation, sleep, nutrition, and exercise. Leslie explains techniques on acknowledging your child's current state, choosing the right moment to talk, and prioritizing clear communication. She describes how to create an environment where children feel comfortable discussing important matters without triggering defensiveness. Related Links:https://orderoochaos.comGet your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools https://impactparents.com/gift Connect with Leslie:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/orderoutofchaosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/order.out.of.chaos/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-josel-adhd-student-parent-coach/Connect with Impact Parents:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/impactparents/ @impactparentsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ImpactParent@impactparentLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/impactparents/@impactparentsX (fka Twitter): https://twitter.com/ImpactParents@impactparentsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The topic of supporting parents of young adults, with its unique challenges, evolving relationships, and opportunities for growth, is the focus of this Parenting with Impact podcast episode. Join Diane and Elaine on this episode as they delve deeper into this significant and necessary area of focus.Episode 144 Helping Young Adults Get Back On Track with Elaine and DianeListen to this inspiring Parenting With Impact episode with Elaine and Diane.How to Talk to Your Complex Kids [and Other Important Relationships]Strained communication can create a hot mess of misunderstanding and conflict -- whether it's with your kids or any significant relationship in your life. In this FREE guide, you'll discover your role in communication dynamics and 10 simple but effective ways to help you build more trust and calm in your communication with your complex kids -- and any relationship. Here is what to expect on this week’s show:●Diane, who has been actively supporting parents of young adults for three years, emphasizes the need for understanding, guidance, and support for parents navigating this stage of life. She believes in creating space for young adults to ask for help and for parents to support their agenda, while also acknowledging the complexities involved in parenting young adults. ●Elaine stresses the importance of building and maintaining strong relationships with young adults, fostering trust, and effective communication. She encourages parents to focus on the progress and incremental growth of their young adults, rather than solely on the desired outcome of complete independence. ●Elaine and Diane dive into the complex world of parenting adult children. From establishing boundaries to fostering open communication, they explore the ups and downs of this ever-evolving process. Related Links:·      Parenting Emerging Adults ·      Effective Agreements·      4 Phases of Parenting: How to Support Without Enabling ·      It's No Mystery: Why Kids Resist Help ·       It's All About Control: Are You Ready? Connect with Elaine & Diane:·      Instagram  @impactparentsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode brings you another Success Story from the ImpactParents Community! Elena Nichols is passionate in raising complex kids through personal transformation and effective communication. After stumbling upon coaching by accident, she became intrigued by the concept of self-awareness and its potential for personal growth. As a parent of a child with dyslexia, Elena initially struggled with expectations and frustration. However, through her own journey of seekingsupport and focusing on her child's strengths, she witnessed significantimprovements in their reading abilities. Elena's dedication to understandingneurodiversity led her to become a neurodiversity informed coach, recognizingthe unique talents and facets of individuals with a greater degree of neurodiversity. With a diverse clientele and a supportive community at ImpactParents, Elena continues to find fulfillment in connecting with and coachingpeople, experiencing personal growth along the way.Ten Tips for Calm and Confident Parenting of Complex KidsParentingcomplex kids can be difficult, even mind-numbing at times. In this FREE Guide you’ll find clear, quick guidance to helpyou calm the chaos and more confidently prepare your child for greaterindependence and success! Learn techniques parents all over the world are usingto reduce friction and (believe it!) rediscover the joy of parenting. Listen to this SuccessStories Edition Parenting With Impact episode with Elena Nichols about parentcoaching for complex kids.Here is what to expect on this week’s show:Learn how observing herself and taking a pause before reacting changed herinteractions with her children.Discover coaching as a transformative profession that opens the door to a whole new world.  Through coaching, obstacles and challenges are easily resolved, and everything flows effortlessly Learn how parent coaching as a transformative approach that empowers parents to navigate the challenges of raising complex kids.  Related Links:Elena NicholsOvercoming Learning Challenges – A Complex Kid Speaks OutHelping Kids with Dyslexia Feel Good about Getting Help with ReadingLook for the Positive Traits to Find the Fabulous in Complex KidsGet your FREE copy of 12 Key Coaching Tools Connect with Impact Parents:www.impactparents.comInstagram: @impactparentsFacebook: @impactparentLinkedIn:@impactparentsTwitter: @impactparents Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices