In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently artwork

In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

100 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago - ★★★★★ - 163 ratings

Discover In It, a podcast that explores the joys and frustrations of supporting kids with learning disabilities and ADHD. Join hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra as they talk with parents, caregivers, teachers, and sometimes kids. They offer perspective, advice, and stories for and from people who have challenges with reading, math, focus, and other learning differences. Get tips on parenting kids with learning disabilities like dyslexia.

Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

Copyright © 2018–2022 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Courses Education Kids & Family family adhd dyslexia learningdisabilities sensoryprocessing
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Episodes

After the diagnosis: How kids feel about their learning and thinking differences

February 15, 2024 05:00 - 29 minutes - 27 MB

Getting diagnosed with a learning and thinking difference can be a big relief for many kids. But for some kids, the news can lead to many questions and worries. They may not want to talk about their diagnosis at all. And sometimes, the way kids respond to their diagnosis changes over time. In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome Preetika Mukherjee, a pediatric neuropsychologist. Dr. Mukherjee offers suggestions for ways to talk with your child after a diagnosis. Tu...

ADHD and siblings: Tips from an expert

February 01, 2024 05:00 - 23 minutes - 21.5 MB

When siblings have different needs, what’s a parent to do?   In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Dr. Ari Tuckman, a psychologist who works with families and couples. He shares tips for finding balance in parenting kids when one has a learning or thinking difference. And he talks about the importance of the idea that “fair doesn’t always mean equal.” This is part two of a two-part series. In part one, we talked to Becca, a mom of two raising one chil...

A kid with ADHD. A kid without. One mom’s story

January 18, 2024 05:00 - 21 minutes - 19.4 MB

Sibling dynamics are challenging for all families. But when one sibling has a learning and thinking difference and the other one doesn’t, things can be even tougher.   In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Becca. She’s a mom of two kids, one with ADHD and one without. Becca shares how she’s finding balance in parenting kids with different needs. And how her kids interact with one another. This is part one of a two-part series. In the next episode, we’...

How to talk to your child’s pediatrician about ADHD and learning differences

January 04, 2024 05:00 - 22 minutes - 20.2 MB

If your child is struggling at school or at home, and you think it may be related to ADHD or a learning difference, communication is key. Talking with your child’s pediatrician can be a first step to getting support. But sometimes it’s hard to know what to say to your child’s doctor.   In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome behavioral pediatrician Dr. Nerissa Bauer. Dr. Bauer offers tips and strategies for talking with your child’s pediatrician about ADHD...

When kids and teens have tantrums: How to help

December 14, 2023 05:00 - 29 minutes - 26.6 MB

Tantrums and meltdowns are challenges all parents face. But for families of kids who learn and think differently, they can be even more of a struggle. In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome back Dr. Andrew Kahn, the host of the first season of Understood’s What Now? A Parent’s Guide to Tantrums and Meltdowns. Tune in to get his expert advice on dealing with tantrums and meltdowns. Learn how practicing strategies ahead of time can help you manage outbursts in the m...

Parenting the kids you have: One mom’s story

November 30, 2023 05:00 - 27 minutes - 25.4 MB

Most parents start their parenting journey with ideas of what it will be like, and what their kids will be like. But what happens when your expectations don’t match reality? How do things change when you find out your child has a learning or thinking difference?   In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome Suzie Glassman, a writer and mom of two kids. Suzie shares how her parenting changed after her daughter was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia.   Find out how she pa...

ADHD and puberty: What to expect

November 16, 2023 05:00 - 36 minutes - 33.1 MB

Puberty can be a challenging time for kids and their families. But what about if your child going through puberty has ADHD?  In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek take a deep dive into puberty and ADHD. First, they hear from three parents of teens with ADHD to find out what it’s like to be “in it.” Then, they welcome returning guest Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a clinical psychologist and Understood expert. Listen in as he explains how ADHD and puberty can affect each other. ...

Assistive tech: What it is and how it helps

November 02, 2023 04:00 - 26 minutes - 24.7 MB

From the talk-to-text feature on a phone to a lap desk, many people use assistive technology (AT) every day. For kids who learn and think differently, assistive tech can make learning easier. But how do you know if it’s something your child needs?   In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome returning guest Shira Moskovitz. Shira, a special education teacher and technology specialist, shares some of the ways assistive tech can help. Tune in to learn about the differen...

Surviving the holidays with sensory processing challenges

October 19, 2023 04:00 - 24 minutes - 22.5 MB

While the holiday season can be exciting, it can also stimulate the senses in a way that makes it less fun for some kids. For kids with sensory processing challenges, the holidays can be overwhelming. In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome returning guest Keri Wilmot. Keri, a pediatric occupational therapist, shares some of the ways the holidays can bring on sensory overload. From costumes to new foods and more, Keri has strategies to help you and your child enjoy...

Introducing “What Now? A Parent’s Guide”

October 12, 2023 04:00 - 6 minutes - 5.99 MB

Bonus episode! Introducing Understood’s newest podcast: What Now? A Parent’s Guide. Tune in for a peek at Season 1, which is all about tantrums and meltdowns. Listen to host Dr. Andrew Kahn as he shares practical tips on how to project calm, even when you don’t feel it.   Get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes from What Now? A Parent’s Guide at u.org/podcasts.   We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at [email protected].   Understood.org is a resource dedicated...

Bullying and being bullied: Why it happens and what families can do

October 05, 2023 04:00 - 37 minutes - 34.6 MB

Why do some kids bully others? And why do some kids seem to be targets of bullying, time and time again?   In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with parenting coach Caroline Maguire, author of Why Will No One Play with Me?: The Play Better Plan to Help Children of All Ages Make Friends and Thrive. She specializes in social-emotional learning and raising kids with ADHD.   Tune in to learn about both sides of bullying, and what families can do to help. Plus, hear Ca...

School refusal

September 21, 2023 04:00 - 32 minutes - 29.9 MB

Why do kids sometimes refuse to go to school? And what can families do about it, both in the moment and to help avoid it in the future? In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek hear from Erin, a returning guest whose family has struggled with school refusal challenges for years.   The hosts also talk with psychologist and Understood expert Dr. Andrew Kahn, who shares some of the reasons that could be behind a child’s school refusal. He also offers tips and strategies for t...

Back-to-school action plan: Setting goals and getting organized

September 07, 2023 04:00 - 17 minutes - 16.5 MB

For many families, the new school year brings a real mixed bag of emotions. There’s the excitement of a fresh start combined with jitters about all of the unknowns. For families of kids who learn and think differently, there may be IEPs or 504 plans, and new teachers to connect with about all these things. It’s a lot to think about — and to navigate. In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with returning guest DeJunne’ Clark Jackson, an education consultant and parent...

Coming soon: “In It” Season 5

August 31, 2023 04:00 - 1 minute - 1.24 MB

Join us for Season 5 of In It, a podcast about the ins and outs — and ups and downs — of supporting kids who learn and think differently. Hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek will continue to bring stories, tips, and advice from families and experts. They’ll cover topics from ADHD and puberty to helpful tech for kids.  Season 5 starts Thursday, September 7. Subscribe now!   We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at [email protected].   Understood.org is a resource dedicated to...

Busting myths about special education (from “The Opportunity Gap” podcast)

August 02, 2023 04:00 - 24 minutes - 22.3 MB

Bonus episode! Learn five common myths about special education that can keep kids of color from getting the support they deserve. In this episode from Understood’s The Opportunity Gap, host Julian Saavedra talks with Christina Gutierrez, a former educator and the mom of a child with an IEP. Find out which of the five myths “gets under her skin” the most — and which one crept into her own thinking when her son was struggling. Get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes from The...

ADHD and eating disorders (from the ADHD Aha! podcast)

July 20, 2023 04:00 - 29 minutes - 27 MB

Bonus episode! This time on In It, learn about ADHD and eating disorders in this episode from Understood’s ADHD Aha! podcast. Host Laura Key talks with Dr. Roberto Olivardia about why ADHD and binge-eating disorder (BED) often co-occur. Learn how ADHD symptoms like impulsivity play a role in disordered eating. Plus, find out about treatment options and what to do if you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder and needs support.   Get a transcript of this show and check out...

Summer reads that embrace difference and disability

July 06, 2023 04:00 - 11 minutes - 10.2 MB

In this bonus episode, Rachel Bozek, Gretchen Vierstra, and a few of their Understood colleagues share summer reading recommendations. Learn about books that embrace differences for readers of all ages. Plus, get tips on how to make summer reading fun for kids.    To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.   We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at [email protected].   Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world...

From deep breaths to packed binders: What we learned this season

June 22, 2023 04:00 - 9 minutes - 8.87 MB

In this bonus episode, Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra share a few of their favorite moments from Season 4. From self-advocacy at IEP meetings to our kids’ social lives, we covered a lot of ground this season.   Tune in to hear which topics the hosts are still thinking about — including why there’s no shame in bringing a five-inch binder to your next parent-teacher conference.  To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.   We love hea...

Summer survival guide: Hacks to help your family thrive

June 08, 2023 04:00 - 24 minutes - 22.9 MB

Summer break. Some families love it. Others dread it. No matter how you feel about summer, we’ve got hacks to help your family thrive.   In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk all things summer with psychologist and Understood expert Dr. Andrew Kahn. Andy shares what can make summer easier than the school year for kids who learn and think differently — and what might make it harder.   Tune in for tips on screen time, sleep, summer camp, travel, and more. Plus, learn...

Unpacking the teen mental health crisis: How we got here and what to do about it

May 25, 2023 04:00 - 22 minutes - 20.6 MB

We’ve been hearing a lot about a mental health crisis that’s affecting kids — especially teens — really hard. What’s behind this crisis? How is it playing out for kids with learning and thinking differences? And what can we do about it?  To help answer these questions, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra turn to Dr. Matthew Cruger. He’s the clinical director and a senior neuropsychologist at the Child Mind Institute. Learn how the crisis is showing up in his practice, especially with k...

Adulting and executive function skills: How to help your child thrive after high school

May 11, 2023 04:00 - 23 minutes - 21.8 MB

Sending kids off to the adult world can feel both scary and exciting. How can families best support their kids who learn and think differently?   In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Dr. Karen Wilson, a clinical neuropsychologist who works with a lot of college students. She shares some of the common challenges kids face in the real world — many related to trouble with executive function. Get her expert advice on how families can help their kids manage the dem...

To medicate or not to medicate ADHD: One family’s story

April 27, 2023 04:00 - 18 minutes - 17.2 MB

ADHD medication. How do you decide if it’s right for your child? It’s a very personal decision that often takes time. Learning about the experiences of other families can help.   In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra talk with Amelia, a mom whose son started taking ADHD medication during high school. Amelia shares the journey that led to the decision to medicate, including the worries she had. Find out how her son feels about taking medication. And hear Amelia’s advice f...

ADHD in the family: When your child’s diagnosis leads to your own

April 13, 2023 04:00 - 25 minutes - 23.5 MB

What happens if your child gets diagnosed with ADHD, and you recognize some of the signs in yourself? Should you get tested? What are the benefits of getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult?   In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra explore the not-so-uncommon scenario of parents realizing they might have ADHD, too. First, they talk with Jessica Covington, a mom of two who didn’t figure out she had ADHD until her son was diagnosed at age 7.   Then, the hosts learn more ab...

Life after high school: Tips to get your child ready

March 30, 2023 04:00 - 24 minutes - 22.7 MB

For many families with kids who learn and think differently, getting through high school can feel like a big challenge. But what about the challenges after high school? How can families prepare their high-schoolers for what comes next — whether that’s college, a trade school, a job, or a combination of things?   In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Jennifer Correnti, a high school counselor and 504 plan coordinator in New Jersey. Tune in for Jennifer’s advice ...

ADHD TikTok 101 with Dr. Sasha Hamdani

March 16, 2023 04:00 - 22 minutes - 20.7 MB

Many kids and teens — and even adults — go to TikTok for information on ADHD. They search for tips, advice, personal stories, and sometimes even a diagnosis. But is everything they find on TikTok legit? How can we help our kids navigate TikTok, especially when we may not even understand it ourselves?  In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra learn all about the world of ADHD TikTok with Dr. Sasha Hamdani. Dr. Sasha is a psychiatrist who specializes in ADHD and anxiety. She ...

Parenting “fails” — yours and ours

March 02, 2023 05:00 - 21 minutes - 19.7 MB

Parenting is tough. And it can be even tougher when you’re raising kids with learning and thinking differences. When we make mistakes as parents, it’s important to know we’re not alone. And that we’re all learning as we go.   In this episode of In It, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra share listener stories of parenting “fails” — plus their own stories. Tune in to hear about times when we lost our patience, regretted our words, or had a bad parenting moment in public. These stories m...

Discipline, ADHD, and learning differences

February 16, 2023 05:00 - 26 minutes - 23.9 MB

Many parents struggle with how to discipline their kids. But for families of kids who have ADHD or learning differences, it can be even harder to know what to do. How do you discipline kids who have trouble with the skills they need to behave? What strategies work best for kids with ADHD?   In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra get discipline tips from a clinical psychologist, Dr. Kristin Carothers. Kristin explains why it can be hard for kids with ADHD to follow rules, ...

Connecting as a couple when you’re “in it”

February 02, 2023 15:59 - 25 minutes - 23.6 MB

When you’re a couple raising a child, your relationship can fall to the bottom of the priority list. That can be especially true when your child learns or thinks differently. You might feel the pressures of time, money, and decision-making. And you may find yourselves arguing over small things like who bought the bread.   So how can a couple nurture their relationship? To find out, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek turn to Sarah Greenberg for advice. Sarah is an Understood expert wit...

Math anxiety, dyscalculia, and other reasons math can be hard for kids

January 19, 2023 05:00 - 24 minutes - 22.7 MB

 Why is math so hard for so many kids? And what can we do about it?   In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra take a deep dive into math with special education and math teacher Brendan Hodnett. Tune in to learn about dyscalculia, a learning disability in math. Find out how other learning and thinking differences can impact math, too.   Hear Brendan describe math anxiety, and what strategies can help. You’ll even learn an easy breathing strategy for calming math nerves. Pl...

Homework battles: What really matters

January 05, 2023 05:00 - 23 minutes - 21.3 MB

Homework. It’s a source of battles in many families. But does it have to be? How can we approach homework so that it doesn’t cause so much stress for our kids — and ourselves?   In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra talk all things homework with special education teacher Shira Moskovitz. Hear Shira bust common homework myths, like why the best time to do homework isn’t always right after school. And why it’s OK if your child’s homework station is a bit messy. Plus, get t...

Impulsivity in kids: Getting past “What were you thinking?!”

December 15, 2022 05:00 - 25 minutes - 23.5 MB

Impulsivity can be a big challenge for kids with ADHD. But it’s also something that many kids struggle with. What drives impulsive behavior? And how can we help kids manage it?   In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek take a deep dive into impulsivity with psychologist and Understood expert Dr. Andy Kahn. Hear Andy explain what impulsivity is, its connection to ADHD, and why all kids can struggle with it.   Get practical tips for how to help kids manage impulsiv...

The power of self-advocacy for kids at IEP and 504 meetings

December 01, 2022 05:00 - 22 minutes - 20.7 MB

Self-advocacy is the ability to communicate your needs. It’s important for thriving in school, at work, and in life. But it’s not something that comes naturally for kids — and even most adults. So how do we help kids build their self-advocacy muscles?   In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra talk about self-advocacy with Melody Maitland, a director of student services and former special education teacher. Melody believes that kids deserve a seat at the table in IEP and 50...

Dyslexia: More than mixing up letters

November 17, 2022 14:48 - 31 minutes - 28.9 MB

When kids have trouble learning to read, families may wonder about dyslexia. But what exactly is dyslexia? And what are the signs to look out for?   In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk about dyslexia with Dr. Gabrielle Rappolt-Schlichtmann. Gabbie is an education scientist who works to make education more inclusive to kids and adults who learn and think differently. She’s also dyslexic, and the parent of a third grader with dyslexia.   Tune in to learn some of th...

The social lives of our kids: When to worry, when to let go

November 03, 2022 04:00 - 22 minutes - 20.6 MB

Many families worry about their kids’ social lives. But when your child has a learning difference, you might worry even more. What happens when you realize that what looks like loneliness to you is actually not loneliness for your child?   In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra talk with Ellen, a mom of three kids ages 11 to 16. Ellen shares the story of her son, a high-schooler who has a nonverbal learning disability (NVLD) and written expression disorder. Hear Ellen tal...

Bullying, learning differences, and how to help

October 20, 2022 04:00 - 26 minutes - 24.2 MB

Bullying is a tough topic for anyone to talk about. But for kids who learn and think differently, it can be even tougher. They’re more likely to be bullied than their peers. And it’s common for kids who are bullied to react by bullying others. So what can families do about bullying?  In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek get advice from Ellen Braaten, child psychologist and Understood expert. Listen in to learn how to tell the difference between teasing and bullying. Fin...

How to make the most of parent-teacher conferences

October 06, 2022 04:00 - 22 minutes - 20.5 MB

If you have a ton of questions for your child’s teacher — but only 15 minutes to discuss them in a parent-teacher conference — you’re not alone. How can you make the most of this meeting?   In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek get advice on how to prepare for parent-teacher conferences from DeJunne’ Clark Jackson. DeJunne’ is a parent advocate, an education consultant, and president of The Center for Literacy & Learning. She’s also a parent of two who’s proudly earned t...

Coming soon: “In It” Season 4

September 29, 2022 04:00 - 1 minute - 1.69 MB

Join us for Season 4 of In It, a podcast about the ins and outs — and ups and downs — of supporting kids who learn and think differently.   This season, host Gretchen Vierstra will be joined by a new co-host, Rachel Bozek, a writer and editor raising two kids with ADHD. Gretchen and Rachel will bring you stories, tips, and expert advice from people who are “in it.” They’ll talk about everyday challenges, bust myths about learning differences, and dive into tough topics like bullying. To fi...

Finding joy with Amanda’s favorite episode

September 22, 2022 04:00 - 23 minutes - 21.8 MB

Season 4 of In It is almost here! But first, we have some bittersweet news. In this celebratory bonus episode, Amanda shares that she’s hanging up her mic as the co-host of In It. Hear Amanda talk about the origins of the show. Then listen to one of Amanda’s favorites from Season 2, “This Is How We Make It Through,” an episode about how families find joy — even on the most challenging days.   We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at [email protected]. Understood.org is a resource ...

Picky eating: Why it happens and what you can do to help

September 08, 2022 04:00 - 24 minutes - 22.6 MB

If your kid is a picky eater, you’re not alone. What’s behind picky eating? And should we even be calling it that?   In this episode, hosts Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra dig into picky eating with  Keri Wilmot, a pediatric occupational therapist. Keri shares constructive ways to talk about picky eating — and how to find out what’s behind it. Listen in to get tips for introducing new foods to kids, including a trick for encouraging more bites. Find out how to rein in expectations about ...

Executive function skills: What are they and how can we help kids build them?

August 25, 2022 04:00 - 21 minutes - 20 MB

Messy backpacks. Forgotten lunches. Missing assignments. How can we help our kids get organized this school year? What strategies can we use to support kids with ADHD and other learning differences?  In this episode, hosts Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra get back-to-school tips from Brendan Mahan, an executive function coach and host of the ADHD Essentials podcast. Brendan explains what executive function skills are — and how we can help kids build them. Learn why we might be asking too ...

Evaluations for special education: Introducing Understood’s new podcast

August 11, 2022 04:00 - 15 minutes - 13.9 MB

How do schools evaluate kids for special education? Season 1 of our new Understood Explains podcast answers these questions and more. In this bonus episode of In It, Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra talk with Dr. Andy Kahn, a psychologist who spent nearly 20 years evaluating kids for schools. Andy shares why he’s excited to host Season 1 of Understood Explains, which breaks down the special education evaluation process for families. Tune it to learn more about the post, evaluations, and m...

Her intense, restless son harnessed ADHD by climbing mountains (from the “ADHD Aha!” podcast)

July 28, 2022 04:00 - 38 minutes - 35 MB

Bonus episode! Hear one mom’s story of parenting a child with ADHD and written expression disorder in this episode from Understood’s ADHA Aha! podcast. Host Laura Key talks with Michelle Kuipers, the mother of Marc-André Leclerc. Marc-André was a skilled rock climber and alpinist who died at age 25 in the mountains of Alaska. He’s the subject of a Netflix documentary, The Alpinist. Michelle shares how she homeschooled Marc-André and helped him learn to channel his ADHD. Listen as Michelle d...

Clapbacks and comebacks: Families react to “Does your kid really have ADHD?” and other judgments

July 14, 2022 04:00 - 14 minutes - 12.8 MB

Help us make our podcasts better. Take our listener survey. How do we react to the judgment of others when we’re raising kids who learn differently? And how do we handle our own judgment?  In this bonus episode, Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra share favorite moments from families who are “in it.” Get advice on — and even comebacks for — questions like “Is ADHD even real?” Hear why one mom stopped sharing her son’s diagnosis with family and friends. Find out how one couple learned to shu...

Summer reading reimagined: How to help all kids enjoy reading

June 09, 2022 04:00 - 22 minutes - 20.3 MB

Summer is a great time for kids to fall in love with reading. How can we make summer reading fun for all kids — even those who don’t think of themselves as readers?  In this episode, hosts Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra talk about summer reading with Jeremee DeMoir, a bookshop owner and former teacher. Hear how Jeremee helps kids find reading materials that are engaging and accessible. Learn new ways to think about reading, and why you should consider things like audiobooks and manga. P...

Single parenting: Raising kids who learn differently on your own

May 26, 2022 04:00 - 28 minutes - 26.1 MB

What unique challenges do single parents face when raising kids with learning differences?  In this episode, hosts Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra talk with a single parent who’s “in it.” Rachel is raising her 10-year-old daughter, who has ADHD and other learning challenges. Listen to Rachel talk about the journey she’s been on with her daughter. Hear how she’s trying to manage everything as a single parent. Plus, get Rachel's tips for how to use humor during challenging moments.  To fi...

Busting myths about learning differences and ADHD

May 12, 2022 04:00 - 20 minutes - 18.7 MB

There are plenty of myths and misconceptions about learning differences. Is ADHD just about hyperactivity? Is dyslexia a vision problem? And do kids outgrow learning differences?   In this episode, host Gretchen Vierstra shares common myths about learning and thinking differences for co-host Amanda Morin to bust. Listen to Amanda debunk these myths with the facts. Learn why these myths persist and how you can help debunk them. Plus, hear the myths that Amanda, Gretchen, and their producer b...

Why summer camp has lasting benefits for neurodivergent kids

April 27, 2022 04:00 - 27 minutes - 25.4 MB

Summer camp is a tradition for many kids. But does summer camp work for kids who learn differently? How do you find the right camp? Can the camp support your child’s needs? Will your child make friends?  In this episode, hosts Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra get answers from the ultimate expert: a camp director. Audrey Monke has been running a summer camp for 37 years. She’s also the author of Happy Campers: 9 Summer Camp Secrets for Raising Kids Who Become Thriving Adults. Hear Audrey’s...

ADHD and sleep problems

April 14, 2022 04:00 - 38 minutes - 35.7 MB

Many kids with ADHD have trouble with sleep. When kids can’t fall asleep or stay asleep, many families struggle with everybody getting a good night’s sleep.   In this episode, hosts Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra talk with guests who are “in it” when it comes to sleep challenges. First, hear from Belinda, whose son has ADHD, autism, and trouble sleeping. Find out how she deals with sleep challenges, both as a parent and as someone who struggles with sleep herself. Then, get expert advic...

How mentors empower kids who learn differently

March 31, 2022 04:00 - 21 minutes - 19.9 MB

What’s one way to empower kids who learn differently? Connect them with near-peer mentors who learn differently, too.  In this episode, hosts Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra talk with Marcus Soutra, president of Eye to Eye, a founding partner of Understood. Eye to Eye brings together middle school students who learn differently with high school and college students who also learn differently. Hear how mentoring can help kids gain self-awareness and build self-advocacy skills. Plus, hear ...

Eye to Eye: The power of mentors for kids who learn differently

March 31, 2022 04:00 - 21 minutes - 19.9 MB

What’s one way to empower kids who learn differently? Connect them with near-peer mentors who learn differently, too.  In this episode, hosts Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra talk with Marcus Soutra, president of Eye to Eye, a founding partner of Understood. Eye to Eye brings together middle school students who learn differently with high school and college students who also learn differently. Hear how mentoring can help kids gain self-awareness and build self-advocacy skills. Plus, hear ...