Diverse Thinking Different Learning

• Ep. 225: Moving Beyond Accommodations and Modifications to Cognitive Change for Academic Gains with Shelley Woon

  This week on the podcast, we welcome Shelley Woon to the conversation. Shelley is a dedicated educator and school leader with over three decades of experience supporting students, families, and staff in overcoming learning challenges. She holds a Master of Education in Leadership, has specialized qualifications in Special Education and Reading, and serves as Head of School at Arrowsmith School and Superintendent of Special Education. Shelley values the brain-learning connection and is committed to helping others unlock their potential. Shelley joins us to explore how we can move beyond compensatory strategies and actually strengthen cognitive function for students who have dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning challenges. We discuss why depending only on accommodations can actually limit students’ career opportunities and how interventions that are rooted in neuroplasticity can actually rewire the brain. She explains the Arrowsmith approach, which involves targeting cognitive weaknesses via specific exercises designed to create real, measurable improvements in reading, writing, and executive function. We also take on common skepticism around cognitive training. With so many programs that promise miracles, how can parents and educators separate science-backed interventions from empty claims? Shelley shares research that supports neuroplasticity-based learning, and she gives us real-world success stories from students who have greatly improved their academic abilities through structured training. Show Notes: [2:52] - Shelley transitioned from focusing on accommodations to addressing cognitive challenges. [4:15] - Accommodations help, but actual progress comes from strengthening cognitive skills. [6:28] - Shelley discusses how ignoring learning disabilities can hinder careers and mental health, even with accommodations. [8:51] - We learn that Arrowsmith identifies cognitive deficits and uses neuroplasticity-based exercises to improve reading and writing. [10:04] - Shelley explains how neuroplasticity enables the brain to rewire itself. [13:52] - Addressing learning difficulties requires not just accommodations but also cognitive training. [15:01] - The Arrowsmith program develops cognitive functions by integrating supportive technology. [18:53] - Cognitive training can improve executive functioning, but programs like Arrowsmith are and should be evidence-based, [21:52] - It is reiterated that the Arrowsmith program improves learning capacity using neuroplasticity for academic and cognitive success. [23:02] - In Arrowsmith classrooms, Shelley discusses, students engage in individualized cognitive exercises customized to their needs. [25:52] - Shelley further explains that teachers guide students with personalized feedback. [27:33] - Education is evolving with neuroplasticity and integrating technology. [29:14] - Improving cognitive functions can improve multiple skills, sometimes yielding unexpected benefits in daily life. [31:33] - We learn how cognitive training such as sports practice requires mastering basic skills. [35:23] - Shelley shares how she can be contacted online. Links and Related Resources: Unleashing the Power of Neuroplasticity (Webinar Series) Shelley Woon - “Overcoming Dysgraphia and Dyslexia with Neuroplasticity” Barbara Arrowsmith-Young - The Woman Who Changed Her Brain: How I Left My Learning Disability Behind and Other Stories of Cognitive Transformation Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia  Connect with Shelley Woon: Arrowsmith’s Website Email: [email protected]

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• Ep. 224: Should I Medicate My Child? – Part 2 with Lance Steinberg, M.D.

  Following up on last week’s episode, we are joined once again by Lance Steinberg, M.D. to further discuss the complex issue of medicating children with conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and depression, and if you missed part 1 of the discussion, be sure to go back and listen to that before diving into part 2! In this continuation of our discussion, Dr. Steinberg sheds more light on the approach that is required when considering medication, stressing that a thoughtful evaluation is important before immediately jumping to medical solutions. Dr. Steinberg offers some insights into the FDA-approved medications, why it's important to adhere to age guidelines, and the differences between stimulant options. Dr. Steinberg also explores balancing managing side effects while optimizing benefits, the use of non-stimulant alternatives, and the possibility of off-label treatments for unique situations. The conversation touches on the variety of medication forms available and why it is necessary to customize treatments to each child's needs, taking into account academic, social, and psychological factors. Dr. Steinberg’s practical advice on starting with low doses, monitoring progress, and adjusting strategies offers a great perspective on this important part of mental health care for youth.  Show Notes: [1:20] - Karen stresses that it's important to take a thorough, holistic approach before considering ADHD medication for children. [2:08] - Dr. Lance Steinberg discusses why understanding FDA age limits and medication safety for ADHD treatment is important. [5:34] - Stimulant medications are generally highly effective for ADHD. [8:32] - Dr. Steinberg advises starting ADHD medication at low doses in order to minimize possible side effects. [11:28] - Regular evaluation is important when managing ADHD treatment via medications. [13:27] - Non-stimulant and off-label medications can also be effective for ADHD, especially with comorbid conditions. [16:16] - Dr. Steinberg discusses the effectiveness and side effects of off-label medications like Modafinil for motivation. [19:03] - Dr. Steinberg talks about structured support for executive functioning. [21:37] - Intervention requires a holistic approach and involves therapists, coaches, and team communication. [24:00] - Dr. Steinberg stresses careful medication management for neurodiverse individuals. [26:04] - He touches upon combining stimulants and non-stimulants for ADHD treatment. [29:18] - Dr. Steinberg warns about the careful combination of SSRIs and stimulants due to potential electrical abnormalities. Links and Related Resources: Episode 105: Medication Helps But is Not a Magic Potion for ADHD with Syed Naqvi, MD Episode 173: Why Treating Symptoms Isn’t Enough for Child Wellbeing with Hokehe Eko, MD MPH FAAP Episode 203: ADHD and the Gut-Brain Connection: Exploring Integrative Treatments with Sara Langley, MSN, PMHNP-BC Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia  Connect with Dr. Lance Steinberg: Lance Steinberg, MD's Website Phone: 818-224-3540 Email: [email protected]   

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• Ep. 223: Should I Medicate My Child? – Part 1 with Lance Steinberg, M.D.

  We are joined this week by Lance Steinberg, M.D. Dr. Steinberg is an expert in psychopharmacology, specializing in conditions such as OCD, ADHD, and autism. He has taught internationally and at institutions like UCLA, earning multiple awards for his outstanding teaching. He completed his medical training at Dartmouth, UCLA, and Stanford, and he currently practices in Calabasas, Encino, and Valencia. Dr. Steinberg joins us today in this first part of a two-part episode to discuss managing medication for youth with conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, and depression. We discuss the important factors parents should consider when considering medication for their children. Dr. Steinberg also stresses why it's important to consider various elements such as family dynamics, the impact of education, and medical history in planning treatment. We cover why it's important to go through a careful process to accurately diagnose and create personalized interventions for each child. Dr. Steinberg shares his holistic perspective, including insights from psychology, neurology, and education to provide a well-rounded view of a child's needs.  This conversation is packed with valuable information for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals. Again, it is the first part of a two-part series; so be sure to tune in next week when we will dive even deeper into some strategies for managing medical treatment! Show Notes: [0:08] - This episode discusses medication for ADHD, anxiety, and depression in young people. [2:21] - Dr. Lance Steinberg explains his interest in psychiatry, focusing on the connections between medicine, neurology, and education. [5:16] - Hear how Dr. Steinberg enjoys helping patients, emphasizing considering factors for effective treatment. [6:32] - When determining if medication is appropriate, Dr. Steinberg explains why a holistic approach is important. [9:12] - Dr. Steinberg highlights the need to rule out coexisting issues via thorough history-taking. [11:38] - Dr. Steinberg discusses the impact of medical issues and substances on ADHD-like symptoms. [15:00] - Dr. Steinberg acknowledges Dr. Wilson's reputation for being an open-minded individual in assessing ADHD symptoms. [15:50] - Treatment ultimately differs if the issue is sleep apnea or ADHD without a sleep component. [18:57] - Dr. Steinberg stresses the importance of executive functioning in managing ADHD. [22:16] - Environmental adjustments can enhance learning and self-esteem for kids with ADHD. [25:42] - Lance appreciates Karen's concise approach to considering factors before medication. [28:48] - Careful medication choices must account for medical status, family history, and potential side effects. Links and Related Resources: Episode 105: Medication Helps But is Not a Magic Potion for ADHD with Syed Naqvi, MD Episode 173: Why Treating Symptoms Isn’t Enough for Child Wellbeing with Hokehe Eko, MD MPH FAAP Episode 203: ADHD and the Gut-Brain Connection: Exploring Integrative Treatments with Sara Langley, MSN, PMHNP-BC\ Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia  Connect with Dr. Lance Steinberg: Dr. Steinberg's Website Phone: 818-224-3540 Email: [email protected] 

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• Ep. 222: Wildfires and Mental Health: Understanding the Impact and Strategies for Recovery with Dr. Jyoti Mishra

  We are joined for this episode by Dr. Jyoti Mishra to help us discuss an incredibly important and timely topic - the impact of wildfires on mental health.  Dr. Mishra is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry at UC San Diego, the founder of NEATLabs, and co-director of the UC-wide Climate Change and Mental Health Initiative. Dr. Mishra specializes in climate trauma, resilience, digital health interventions, and precision psychiatry, with her work featured in major media outlets like CNN, TIME, and NPR. In this episode, we explore how natural disasters (such as the recent wildfires in Southern California) not only devastate homes and communities but also cause psychological trauma, with Dr. Mishra sharing her insights from studying the 2018 Camp Fire in Northern California, where her team uncovered alarming rates of PTSD, anxiety, and depression – all symptoms that can last for years even after the disaster itself is over. Our conversation touches upon the concept of "fire brain," a state of cognitive hyperarousal that mirrors PTSD and can impair focus, decision-making, and emotional regulation. Dr. Mishra also sheds some light on the unique vulnerability of children, whose mental and emotional well-being can be deeply affected by wildfire smoke and the disruption of their routines. Beyond individual struggles, we also highlight the collective trauma experienced by entire communities, including those indirectly impacted, and we discuss the importance of fostering resilience through community support, shared routines, and acts of kindness. Dr. Mishra explores how even just small acts of kindness and compassion such as offering hugs or participating in community fundraisers can lead to healing. This timely conversation truly stresses the need to address mental health in the wake of climate-related disasters, so whether you have experienced a wildfire firsthand or want to better support those who have, this episode offers insights and actionable steps to help individuals and communities recover. Show Notes: [3:50] Dr. Jyoti Mishra’s research explores how the brain and environment (including climate) shape mental health. [6:14] - Her study of the 2018 Camp Fire revealed high rates of PTSD, anxiety, and depression that persist long-term. [7:57] - We learn how wildfire survivors experience "fire brain” which is marked by distractibility, hyper-arousal, and impaired decision-making for months. [11:57] - Wildfire smoke affects children’s breathing, cognition, and emotions, requiring adults to provide stability. [14:19] - Dr. Mishra touches upon the difficult balance between physical safety and social connection. [16:57] - Wildfire recovery requires community-wide healing via collective support, shared routines, and working toward a sense of normalcy. [20:00] - Supporting each other during crises leads to resilience and promotes long-term mental well-being. [23:20] - It's important to address both visible and invisible wildfire impacts. [25:11] - Highlighting positive narratives and community support can transform disaster recovery into shared growth. [28:54] - Dr. Mishra points out how preparing for future disasters requires mindfulness and planning with community leaders. [32:25] - Post-trauma recovery should involve small steps, mindfulness, and self-compassion. [35:03] - Everyone can make a difference by serving others, even with small acts of kindness. Wildfire / Mental Health Resources: Disaster Distress Helpline: 1-800-985-5990 (available 24/7) CalHOPE LACPA’s Disaster Response Committee Bounce Back Organization Pro Bono Therapy for Los Angeles Wildfires (1) Pro Bono Therapy for Los Angeles Wildfires (2) Parent Guidelines for Helping Children Impacted by Wildfires Parent Guidelines for Helping Children Impacted by Wildfires (en Español) Wildfires: Tips for Parents on Media Coverage Wildfires: Tips for Parents on Media Coverage (en Español) Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia  Connect with Dr. Jyoti Mishra: Jyoti’s Instagram Page NEATLabs Website Email: [email protected] UC Climate Resilience Course The Little Brain (Book) Listen Up Kids! Our Climate Changing (Book by Jyoti’s Son Ayan)

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• Ep. 221: Would a Behavioral Aide/Shadow Help My Child?

  This week, Lisa Topp, M.S., BCBA joins us to talk about the role of behavioral aides or "shadows" in schools, focusing on how they help children with unique behavioral challenges thrive in the classroom. Lisa is a board-certified behavior analyst with a master's in Applied Behavior Analysis and more than a decade of experience in private practice. She provides 1:1 support for children and teens with autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other behavioral challenges, along with parent coaching. In this episode, we dive into the types of challenges that might indicate a need for a behavioral aide, such as social conflicts, difficulty accessing the curriculum, or challenging behaviors such as refusing to participate. Lisa addresses some of the most common concerns from parents, especially around the stigma of having a shadow in the classroom, sharing how a well-designed support system can improve a child's behavior and relationships with classmates. Our conversation also touches upon the nuances of securing an aide in public vs. private schools and the importance of advocating for children's needs. Lisa highlights why it's important to monitor progress and ensure that children gain independence over time. She also talks about strategies like visual schedules and reinforcement systems to help children stay on track. By the end of this episode, parents are sure to have a better understanding of how behavioral aides can make a huge difference in their child’s educational experience and how they can best take on the process of getting the right support in place.  Show Notes: [2:33] - Behavioral aides support children in various school activities, addressing issues such as challenging behaviors. [5:53] - The stigma around classroom shadows is ultimately outweighed by their benefits. [7:38] - Lisa discusses how public and private schools differ in their approach to providing shadows. [10:07] - Some schools don't approve shadows for children, which creates further challenges for families looking for support. [12:52] - Lisa argues that children usually appreciate shadow support. [15:07] - Lisa explains how families and shadows meet to make child-friendly introductions and discuss the support plan. [17:32] - Some children need long-term shadow support. [19:23] - The need for a shadow in high school often indicates significant challenges that require academic support or a new school placement. [21:42] - To address struggles, Lisa assesses skills, collaborates with teachers, and occasionally involves additional specialists. [24:49] - Understanding underlying learning challenges helps address behaviors and reduces anxiety, preventing further issues. [25:35] - Lisa discusses how adjusting assessments, such as offering oral tests, helped a student with dysgraphia excel despite writing struggles. [27:39] - Assessments ultimately seek to find the best support, track progress and involve parents in home strategies. [29:03] - Hear how Lisa observes family dynamics, creates plans, and uses visual schedules to support children at home. [30:34] - Learn how proactive strategies can help prevent challenging behaviors. [33:48] - Lisa argues that consistent planning across home and school, along with advocacy, is important to support children. Links and Related Resources: Episode 210: Challenging Behaviors or Communication? How Parents Can Respond with Dr. Andrew Kahn Episode 218: Understanding IEPs and 504 Plans: Which One Is Right for Your Child? - Marisol Chianello Connect with Us: Get on our Email List Book a Consultation Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia  Connect with Lisa: Lisa’s Website Phone: 310-709-2885 Email: [email protected]

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