We loved this episode so much that we’re bringing it back for another listen! If you’re parenting a differently wired kid, you may have concerns that go beyond the already heavy stressors that can come with parenting. Am I parenting to bring out the best in my child or doing what’s comfortable, easy or socially expected? Is my child’s IEP just addressing the behavior rather than the stressors that are causing the behavior? Is my neurodivergent student going to be left behind because they don’t perform well on standardized tests despite being very smart? Am I stuck in a cycle of “compare and despair” rather than respecting my child’s unique timeline, interests and gifts?

This conversation Dr. Amy and Dr. Jody had with Debbie Reber felt like a lifeline for many of us raising neurodivergent children and teens. Debbie is the author of the book, “Differently Wired: A Parent’s Guide to Raising an Atypical Child with Confidence and Hope” and the founder of Tilt Parenting. Offering insights, personal stories, and guidance for listeners who may be grappling with insecurities around parenting a differently wired child, Debbie provided comfort—and useful tips—to help us all gain perspective.

Debbie shares her personal story of raising a neurodivergent child and how it inspired her groundbreaking book. She introduces the concept of "tilt," a metaphor that encapsulates the unpredictable path of parenting children who don't fit the typical mold, urging us to shift our perspectives and embrace a new way of understanding neurodivergence.

The emotional strain of the "compare and despair" cycle faced by parents of differently wired kids is a recurring challenge, especially within the rigid framework of educational systems. From public to private schooling, Debbie delves into the impact these choices have on both children and their families, highlighting the concept of "school PTSD" that affects many kids. This episode empowers parents to redefine what success and happiness mean for their families, focusing on the unique strengths and joys that their children bring to their lives.

Advocacy in education is a vital tool for parents, and Debbie offers insights on how to maximize support within the school system. From navigating IEPs and 504 plans to exploring alternatives like micro-schools and homeschooling, she emphasizes the importance of being a proactive advocate for your child's needs. Debbie also shares the wealth of resources available through Tilt Parenting, including a podcast and community initiatives, which provide ongoing support for parents as they embrace the strengths and unique timelines of their differently wired children. Join us for a conversation that offers hope, guidance, and a fresh perspective on the challenges and triumphs of raising exceptional kids.

CONNECT WITH US:

Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com
Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com
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Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady
Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace
Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy discuss the nuanced impacts of the election and cancel culture on our youth. We raise concerns about how some colleges are responding to election results, questioning whether these reactions might be hindering the development of resilience in students. By fostering respectful debates and exposing young people to multiple perspectives, we aim to nurture essential executive function skills. This episode is a call to action for parents and educators, encouraging them to guide children through political conversations without succumbing to the divisiveness that cancel culture breeds and without making assumptions that all youth are mourning the results. Join us in exploring some ways of navigating politics and media with kids. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about the intersection of politics and youth development, this conversation may leave you with plenty to ponder.

Mentioned in this episode:

Universities come under fire for canceling classes, providing safe spaces to students upset by Trump's victory

Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in the Age of Show Business by Neil Postman

The Promise of Clinician-Delivered Cognitive Training for ADHD (with the ADHD cognitive profiles graph)

CONNECT WITH US:

Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com
Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com
Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms

Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady
Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace
Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

What if you could navigate holiday stress with a little more ease? This episode of the Brainy Moms podcast promises to equip you with insightful strategies for beating those seasonal pressures.

Holiday family dynamics can be a minefield, but Dr. Amy and Sandy have got you covered with thoughtful approaches to a little more harmony. As families expand and evolve, coordinating plans can become more challenging, especially when loved ones are absent. We talk about fostering meaningful connections, managing grief, and ensuring everyone feels included. Plus, we tackle the topic of holiday indulgences, offering tips for moderation and meeting dietary needs to keep celebrations joyful and stress-free.

We share our personal experiences and solutions, from the practical benefits of a Christmas share account to the art of mindful budgeting, ensuring you minimize the dreaded post-holiday debt. Discover cost-saving ideas such as gift exchanges and the three-gift rule, and learn how to strategically use Black Friday and Cyber Monday to your advantage without losing sight of what truly matters.

Embracing intentional holiday planning can transform how you experience this festive season. We explore how balancing activities and downtime can enrich children's school vacations. Redefining traditions to reflect personal desires allows for a more authentic celebration filled with gratitude and kindness. By prioritizing what truly brings joy, you can shape a holiday season that strengthens relationships even amidst inevitable challenges. Join us!

CONNECT WITH US:

Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com
Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com
Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms

Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady
Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace
Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com