On this episode of Graduating Anxiety, Alex interviews Ellen Braaten, Director of the Learning and Emotional Assessment Program at Massachusetts General Hospital, and a renowned child psychologist, who authored the book “Bright Kids Who Can’t Keep Up”. They discuss the implications of slow processing speed in learners, the relationship between processing speed and learning anxiety, the benefits of psychological testing and more.  

Key Takeaways:   

• Even with psychological or learning issues, there is a “sweet spot”. Too much anxiety is bad but too little could make us unmotivated. Anxiety is not inherently “bad” as long as we understand it.  
• Slower processing speed can make it difficult for otherwise bright kids to learn in a traditional setting--but it doesn’t mean there is anything wrong with them.  
• In today’s climate, we are expecting more and more from children; they are at times expected to be “mini-adults”. Quite simply, it is important to remember to let our kids be kids and give them a break sometimes.