Full-Tilt Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent Children

Have you ever wondered if SEL (social and emotional learning) in school and classrooms really matters? I’ve been exploring this question a lot about over the past year, as well trying to understand the recent increase in parental and political pushback in the US specifically that is putting the future of SEL in schools at risk.   I wanted to get into a deep conversation about SEL for the show, and so I reached out Dr. Joseph Lee, a psychiatrist with a special interest in social and emotional learning and helping people achieve what he calls optimal mental healthiness. We had exactly the conversation I was hoping we would, as we got into so many important topics, including the state of children and young adult’s mental health today, demystifying what SEL or social emotional learning actually is, why SEL matters, how it’s best introduced in schools, the limitations in the current educational model for social emotional learning curriculums, what the pushback against SEL is really about, and what it’s at stake if our children aren’t provided with social and emotional learning opportunities. I think this is such an important and timely conversation – I hope that you enjoy it and that you help me amplify this episode by sharing it in your communities.   About Dr. Joseph Lee Dr. Joseph Lee, MD., is a Psychiatrist in private practice in Redondo Beach, California. He is also an educator in social and emotional learning (SEL) and provides individual and group supervision to licensed therapists looking to add mental healthiness and SEL principles to their own practices. Dr. Lee has a medical doctorate from University Of California, Los Angeles, School Of Medicine.   Key Takeaways Dr. Joseph Lee’s thoughts on the state of children and young adult’s mental health today What SEL or social emotional learning actually is and why it matters Ways that SEL can be weaved into traditional educational curriculum, as well as the use of specific SEL curriculum What social and emotional learning inside schools looks like in practice The “why” behind the pushback against SEL in the recent years and what’s it’s at stake if we lose the ability to teach SEL in classrooms  Resources Mentioned Mental Healthiness / Dr. Joseph Lee’s website Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning Dr. Joseph Lee & Mental Healthiness on Facebook Dr. Joseph Lee on Twitter Hiding in Plain Sight: Youth Mental Illness (Ken Burns documentary) Daniel Goleman Emotional Intelligence: Why it Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships by Daniel Goleman U.S. Surgeon General Issues Advisory on Youth Mental Health Crisis Further Exposed by COVID-19 Pandemic Parenting the New Teen with Dr. John Duffy (Tilt Parenting Podcast episode) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this short solo episode, Debbie responds to a question she hears from many parents navigating unconventional education paths: looking back, what would youchange—and what wouldn’t you—about your twice-exceptional young adult’s schooling journey. Debbie will share why there’s no perfect path, what she's glad she did (including embracing flexibility and a gap year), and how she's learned to let go of timelines and trust that our kids are on their own trajectory—even when it looks different from everyone else’s. About Debbie Debbie Reber, MA is a parenting activist, bestselling author, speaker, and the CEO and founder of Tilt Parenting, a resource, top-performing podcast, consultancy, and community with a focus on shifting the paradigm for parents raising and embracing neurodivergent children. A regular contributor to Psychology Today and ADDitude Magazine, and the author of more than a dozen books for children and teens, Debbie’s most recent book is Differently Wired: A Parent’s Guide to Raising an Atypical Child with Confidence and Hope. Resources mentioned  Dr. Dan Peters Discusses the Teen Years & Preparing for Navigating Launch (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Best Gap Year Programs for Neurodivergent Students (Thrive Autism Coaching) Dr  Eric Endlich on Gap Programs for Neurodivergent Students (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Debbie Talks About Her Transition to Homeschooling (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Lindsay Lyons, an educational justice coach, former NYC public school teacher, and parent who helps families and educators create space for real, meaningful conversations with kids joins me to talk about the challenges educators and families face when navigating hard conversations in schools, especially around inclusion, equity, and neurodivergence. We talk about the importance of student voice, creating safe spaces for dialogue, and addressing the fears and barriers that can get in the way of real change. At the heart of it all is dignity—how honoring kids’ humanity and lived experiences is foundational to building school environments where all learners can truly belong. About Lindsay Lyons Lindsay Lyons is an educational justice coach who helps families and educators create spaces for real conversations with kids about current events, hard history, and other high-emotion topics. A parent and former NYC public school teacher, she holds a PhD in Leadership and Change, and is the founder of the blog and podcast, Time for Teachership. Lindsay believes all students deserve literacy, criticality, and leadership skills. Things you'll learn from this episode  Why creating emotionally safe spaces for honest conversation is essential for learning and connection How listening to students’ insights can shift adult perspectives and lead to more just educational practices Why meaningful professional development requires ongoing, year-long support rather than one-off workshops How restorative practices and constructive disorientation can strengthen community and transform school culture Why engaging families in difficult conversations—with respect and care—is critical to lasting change  Resources mentioned Lindsay Lyons website Grab the free Staying Engaged framework from Lindsay Lindsay’s Rstorative Conference Companion (free access for listeners) Want to Spark Change? Create “Constructive Disorientation” (blog post by Lindsay Lyons) Controversy in the Classroom: The Democratic Power of Discussion by Diana Hess Challenge Day Zoretta Hammond Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain: Promoting Authentic Engagement and Rigor Among Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students by Zoretta Hammond Ready for Rigor Dr. Chris Wells Explains the Theory of Positive Disintegration (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode is all about social skills, but from an updated lens that really speaks to the lived experiences of today’s kids. My guest is writer and journalist Catherine Newman, and we’re going to dive into her new book, What Can I Say? A Kids Guide to Super Useful Social Skills to Help You Get Along and Express Yourself. What Can I Say is aimed at kids ages 10 and up, and it includes practical and accessible advice to help kids and teens learn social skills, including everything from introduce themselves, express empathy, be persuasive, and apologize to compromise, ask for help, be grateful, and comfort a friend. In this conversation, Catherine and talk about why learning social and interpersonal skills are more important than ever for our kids, despite the fact that their lives are evolving to include more time spent online. We also talk about the climate for social emotional learning and ways parents and educators can to reinforce the social skills our kids are learning. About Catherine Catherine Newman is the author of the memoirs Catastrophic Happiness and Waiting for Birdy, the middle-grade novel One Mixed-Up Night, the kids’ craft book Stitch Camp, the how-to books for kids How to Be a Person and What Can I Say? and the novel We All Want Impossible Things (forthcoming, Harper, November 2022). She edits the non-profit kids’ cooking magazine ChopChop, writes the etiquette column for Real Simple magazine, and is a regular contributor to the New York Times, O, The Oprah Magazine, Parents magazine, Cup of Jo, and many other publications. She lives in Amherst, Massachusetts, with her family.   Key Takeaways Why it’s still important to learn social skills and interpersonal skills even though our kids’ lives are evolving to include more time spent online Why it’s important to spend time learning social skills just as we would learn any other type of skill like algebra or singing The importance of learning interpersonal skills that focus on empathy, setting boundaries, being curious, and being supportive and inclusive of people with different identities How OT can help neurodivergent kids grow up with advanced social emotional skills What parents and educators can do to support and reinforce the social skills they are learning  Resources Mentioned Catherine Newman’s website Catherine on Instagram What Can I Say? A Kids’ Guide to Super Useful Social Skills to Help You Get Along and Express Yourself by Catherine Newman How to Be a Person: 65 Hugely Useful, Super-Important Skills to Learn before You’re Grown Up by Catherine Newman Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Patty Laushman, a speaker, autism life coach, and the author of the book Parenting for Independence: Overcoming Failure to Launch in Autistic Emerging Adults, joins me to talk about one of the misunderstood stages of parenting: supporting our neurodivergent kids as they move into emerging adulthood. In our conversation, Patty and I unpack the concept of “failure to launch,” why that label is actually unhelpful and inaccurate, and how redefining independence can change everything. We talk about self-determination, motivation, and what support actually looks like during this phase of life. Patty also shares her SBN parenting framework—Support, Boundaries, and Nudges—and offers grounded, compassionate guidance for navigating this transition while strengthening trust and connection along the way. About Patty Laushman   Patty Laushman is an author, speaker, educator, and coach who specializes in supporting neurodivergent individuals and the families who love them. With both personal and professional experience, she deeply understands the challenges of being neurodivergent in a world designed for those who are more neurotypical—and the transformative power of the right kind of support. She is the founder and head coach at Thrive Autism Coaching, where she and her team help neurodivergent teens and adults, as well as their parents, build the skills and confidence needed to thrive. Patty developed the SBN™ parenting framework, a step-by-step system that teaches parents how to use support, boundaries, and nudges to help their autistic emerging adults reclaim motivation, build momentum, and move toward more meaningful lives on their own terms. Through her Parenting for Independence group coaching program, Patty has guided hundreds of families through this unexpected stage of parenting—helping them rebuild trust, strengthen relationships, and finally start seeing progress. Her compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming approach has been described by clients as “the only thing that has ever worked for us.”She lives with her husband, son, and Golden Retriever in the Denver/Boulder metro area. In her spare time, you’ll find her hiking, camping, headbanging to heavy metal, or devouring medical or crime dramas. Things you'll learn from this episode   How understanding a child’s lived experience lays the groundwork for more effective, compassionate parenting Why the term “failure to launch,” while loaded, can help families find the right support and resources How redefining independence to include positive interdependence supports healthier outcomes for emerging adults Why self-determination is central to helping neurodivergent young adults move out of stuckness and burnout How the SBN framework—Support, Boundaries, and Nudges—guides parents in creating momentum without control Why resetting expectations and timelines can ease parental shame and anxiety while supporting real growth Resources mentioned Patty Laushman’s website Thrive Autism Coaching Parenting for Independence: Overcoming Failure to Launch in Autistic Emerging Adults by Patty Laushman How to Get Your Autistic Emerging Adult in the Driver’s Seat of Their Life (freebie from Patty) Parenting for Independence (Patty’s program) Private Coaching for Parents with Patty The Real Work of Parenting Neurodivergent Young Adults (Part 1) — a crossover episode with Penny Williams (Full-Tilt Parenting podcast) The Real Work of Parenting ND Young Adults (Part 2) (Beautifully Complex podcast) A Conservation with Dr. Gina Riley on Self-Determination Theory & Motivation (Full-Tilt Parenting) A Conversation with Linda Murphy About Declarative Language episode (Full-Tilt Parenting) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this special kid’s POV edition of the podcast, Asher answers questions from listeners — specifically our kid audience — about his social life. Like many differently-wired kids, social scenes aren’t always smooth sailing for Asher. He sometimes struggles to pick-up on others’ cues and his occasionally intense emotional reactions to certain situations can be off-putting to other kids. We talk about it all in this episode, as Asher opens up about not only what’s challenging for him in relationship to other kids, but what strategies he’s using to get through these challenges and maintain friendships, something that is very important to him.   Questions answered in this episode: What are your friendships like? What kind of challenges have you had in your friendships and how have you handled them? What happens when you have a meltdown in front of a friend? What do you do when kids are mean to you or call you names like “weirdo?” What advice do you have for kids starting a new school? How do you manage group situations that don’t go your way? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s conversation is a candid, honest look at what it’s really like to parent while navigating ADHD yourself. My guest is Laura Key, Vice President of Content Strategy at Understood.org and the host of the award-winning ADHD Aha! podcast. Laura was diagnosed with ADHD at 30, and she brings both professional insight and lived experience to this conversation as a mom raising two neurodivergent kids. Laura and I talk about the emotional labor so many mothers carry, the unique challenges parents with ADHD face, and why self-compassion is not optional—it’s essential. We dig into shame, burnout (both the quiet, everyday kind and the big, overwhelming kind), communication with partners, and the pressure that can come with framing ADHD as a “superpower.” This episode is an honest exploration of the joys and struggles of parenting with ADHD, and a reminder that you’re not alone in any of it. About Laura Key  Laura Key is Vice President of Content Strategy at Understood.org, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering the 70 million people with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning and thinking differences in the United States. She's also the host of the award-winning ADHD Aha! podcast. Things you'll learn from this episode   How adult ADHD is often misread as anxiety at first, and why addressing one can illuminate the other Why late identification can bring both grief and relief after years of self-blame for brain-based differences How shame and invisible executive function demands can quietly dominate family life, especially for moms Why being great in a crisis but overwhelmed by daily details is a common—and misunderstood—ADHD pattern How burnout can show up as both “micro” and “macro” exhaustion, including frenetic busyness that masks collapse Why recovery often starts with basic regulation and more realistic self-expectations, not grand productivity plans Resources mentioned Understood.org Understood on Instagram Understood on LinkedIn ADHD Aha (podcast) Imposter Syndrome After a Lifetime of Hacking Her ADHD (Debbie with Laura on ADHD Aha) Understood’s podcast study on women, podcasts, and ADHD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode is all about self-care for autistic people, and joining me is return guest Dr. Megan Anna Neff of Neurodivergent Insights. Megan Anna has just published a new book called Self-Care for Autistic People: 100+ Ways to Recharge, De-Stress, and Unmask! which she wrote to help autistic people accept themselves, destigmatize autism, find community, and take care of physical and mental health. Megan Anna considers self-care to be a collective effort that includes the well-being of the community, a framework that really resonated with me. So we talk about that, along with other ideas from Megan Anna’s book, including how internalized ableism can hinder self-care, considerations for navigating self-care for individuals with PDA, and insights into co-regulation, sensory considerations, and how advocacy and accommodations in the workplace can also be forms of self-care.   ABOUT DR. MEGAN ANNA NEFF Dr. Megan Anna Neff (she/they) is a neurodivergent Clinical Psychologist and founder of Neurodivergent Insights where she creates education and wellness resources for neurodivergent adults. Additionally, she is co-host of the Divergent Conversations podcast. As a late-diagnosed AuDHDer (Autistic ADHD), Dr. Neff applies their lived experiences from a cross-neurotype marriage and parenting neurodivergent children to their professional focus. They are committed to broadening the mental health field’s understanding of autism and ADHD beyond traditional stereotypes. This personal-professional blend enriches their work and advocacy within neurodiversity. Dr. Neff is the author of Self-Care for Autistic People and a forthcoming book on Autistic Burnout. Additionally, she has published in several peer-reviewed journals on topics ranging from neurodivergence, place attachment, relational psychoanalysis, social psychology, and integration of spirituality into psychotherapy.   KEY TAKEAWAYS Why self-care should be approached with self-attunement and an understanding of one’s own needs Why self-care is a collective effort that includes the well-being of the community How internalized ableism can hinder self-care and why it’s important to address it Ideas for navigating self-care for individuals with PDA regarding autonomy, co-regulation, and sensory considerations Ways to practice self-care in the workplace, including self-disclosure, documentation, and setting realistic expectations  ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Dr. Megan Anna Neff’s website Self-Care For Autistic People by Dr. Megan Anna Neff * A special bonus offer for Tilt Parenting community * Divergent Conversations Podcast Neurodivergent Insights on Instagram Neurodivergent Insights on Facebook Dr. Megan Anna Neff on LinkedIn Dr. Megan Anna Neff’s Link in Bio Dr. Megan Anna Neff on Diagnoses and Misdiagnoses (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Sarah Wayland Is This Autism? A Guide for Clinicians and Everyone Else by Dr. Donna Henderson and Dr. Sarah Wayland Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Ross Greene’s work has profoundly shaped how so many of us think about kids’ behavior and what they actually need from the adults in their lives, so I’m thrilled to welcome him back to the show to talk about his brand new book, The Kids Who Aren’t Okay: The Urgent Case for Reimagining Support, Belonging, and Hope in Schools. Together, we explore the urgent need to reimagine how we support children in schools, especially as mental health concerns continue to rise. We dig into the importance of recognizing developmental variability, why meeting kids where they are is non-negotiable, and how current behavior-focused systems miss the real problems underneath. Ross also highlights the role parents and caregivers can play in advocating for meaningful change. About Dr. Ross Greene  Ross W. Greene, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and the originator of the innovative, evidence-based approach called Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS), as described in his influential books The Explosive Child, Lost at School, Lost & Found, and Raising Human Beings. He also developed and executive produced the award-winning documentary film The Kids We Lose, released in 2018. Dr. Greene was on the faculty at Harvard Medical School for over 20 years, and is now founding director of the non-profit Lives in the Balance. He is also currently adjunct Professor in the Department of Psychology at Virginia Tech and adjunct Professor in the Faculty of Science at the University of Technology in Sydney, Australia. Dr. Greene has worked with several thousand kids with concerning behaviors and their caregivers, and he and his colleagues have overseen implementation and evaluation of the CPS model in countless schools, inpatient psychiatric units, and residential and juvenile detention facilities, with dramatic effect: significant reductions in recidivism, discipline referrals, detentions, suspensions, and use of restraint and seclusion. Dr.Greene lectures throughout the world and lives in Freeport, Maine. Things you'll learn from this episode  How kids today are facing unprecedented challenges that require new ways of thinking and responding Why developmental variability matters and why every child needs support tailored to their unique profile How schools can create more supportive ecosystems by using proactive rather than reactive approaches Why behavior is often a late signal of unmet expectations, not the problem itself How managing expectations and understanding root causes can reduce concerning behaviors Why parents’ advocacy and the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions model can transform how children are supported in education Resources mentioned The Kids Who Aren’t Okay: The Urgent Case for Reimagining Support, Belonging, and Hope in Schools by Dr. Ross Greene Never Too Early: CPS with Young Kids (documentary) The Explosive Child: A New Approach for Understanding and Parenting Easily Frustrated, Chronically Inflexible Children by Dr. Ross Greene Lives in the Balance (Dr. Greene’s website) The B Team (Facebook group) Lost at School: Why Our Kids With Behavioral Challenges are Falling Through the Cracks and How We Can Help Them by Dr. Ross Greene Raising Human Beings: Creating a Collaborative Partnership with Your Child by Dr. Ross Greene Lost and Found: Helping Behaviorally Challenge Students (and While You’re At It, All the Others by Dr. Ross Greene The Kids We Lose (documentary) How to Parent Angry and Explosive Children, with Dr. Ross Greene (Tilt Parenting podcast) Ken Wilbur Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Christine Koh joins me for a conversation about vulnerability, boundary setting, leaning into discomfort, and making big, messy, life pivots. Christine is a music and brain scientist turned multimedia creative. She is a fierce believer in the power of humans, small moments and actions, and vulnerable, authentic storytelling. She communicates on these beliefs through her work as a writer (she is a contributor at the Washington Post, Boston Globe Magazine, and CNN; co-author of Minimalist Parenting; and founder of the award-winning blog Boston Mamas), podcaster (Edit Your Life, Hello Relationships), designer (Brave New World Designs), and creative director (Geben Communication). You can find her at @drchristinekoh on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.   KEY TAKEAWAYS The importance of showing up for ourselves, more now than ever Ways we can reduce overwhelm in life, especially when navigating really hard things How the pandemic shifted Christine’s worries and parenting approach How to set boundaries that are clear and that feel good to you Why Christine believes intention requires attention and vulnerability Why now is a great time to consider making a life pivot and change to bring us closer to our true North  RESOURCES Dr. Christine Koh’s website Minimalist Parenting: Enjoy Modern Family Life More by Doing Less by Christine Koh and Asha Dornfest Edit Your Life podcast Hello Relationship podcast Christine on Instagram Christine on Twitter Christine on Facebook Recognizing the Need for Rest — Susan Stiffelman and Debbie Reber (podcast episode) The Gift of Failure: How the Best Parents Learn to Let Go So Their Children Can Succeed by Jessica Lahey Mercedes Samudio Talks About Shame Proof Parenting (podcast episode) Laura Tremaine Share Your Stuff, I’ll Go First: 10 Questions to Take Your Friendships to the Next Level by Laura Tremaine Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we’re exploring something so many of us wrestle with but don’t always name out loud — the impact of our own fear and anxiety on our kids. I was actually about to record a solo episode when my friend and colleague Sheryl Stoller sent me an email, and the sentiment behind it stayed with me because it put into such simple, clear language the real impact our fears about their future, their potential, their lives, can have on our kids. In this short bite-sized conversation, we’ll talk about how parental anxiety shapes family dynamics, why regulating our own nervous systems is such a powerful gift we can offer our kids, and how empathy, validation, and community support can help us move from fear toward connection.   About Sheryl Sheryl Stoller is a PCI Certified Parent Coach® who has devoted herself to coaching overwrought parents of children whose abilities, sensibilities, and behaviors go beyond expectations (gifted, twice/multi-exceptional) since 2009. This is a personal journey as well as an academic and professional one for Sheryl. She is deeply gratified to serve parents the way she had needed when her children were young. Sheryl integrates many fields of knowledge and training into her coaching. Most recently, she is receiving her Somatic Attachment Therapy Certification; and is a Positive Intelligence (PI) Mental Fitness Coach, through Shirzad Chamine out of Stanford University. Sheryl Co-Leads two communities of practice for PI – Parents and Families, and Neurodiversity; and has received rave reviews for her customization of PI for her “Aligned Parents” and “Get Mental and Emotional Fitness” Group programs for 2E parents. Connect with Sheryl at: sheryl@stollerparentcoaching.com   Things you’ll learn from this episode: How fear in parents can show up as anxiety — and how children often absorb and mirror that energy Why managing our own fears is one of the most powerful ways we can support our kids How empathy and validation create safety even when anxiety is present Why remembering that everything is impermanent can help parents regain perspective How focusing on past successes builds a child’s confidence and counters fear-based narratives Why community, positive imagination, and ongoing learning remind parents they’re not alone in this journey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode digs into the evolving understanding of ADHD and what it really means to parent with collaboration, connection, and support at the center. My guest is Cindy Goldrich, an internationally recognized expert in ADHD and executive function support and the author of 8 Keys to Parenting Kids & Teens with ADHD, a compassionate, research-informed guide that she’s just updated for today’s families. In our conversation, Cindy and I talk about why traditional approaches to ADHD often fall short and how parents can shift from managing behavior to building skills and connection. We also explore the challenges so many families face, what kids with ADHD are actually communicating, and practical, supportive strategies parents can start using right away. About Cindy Goldrich  Cindy Goldrich, Ed.M., ADHD-CCSP, is a mental health counselor, certified ADHD Clinical Services Provider, and internationally recognized expert in ADHD and Executive Function support. She is the founder of PTS Coaching, a leading organization dedicated to training and supporting parents, educators, and allied professionals.Cindy is the author of 8 Keys to Parenting Kids & Teens with ADHD: Supporting Your Child’s Executive Function, a compassionate and practical guide grounded in the latest research. She is also the co-author of ADHD, Executive Function & Behavioral Challenges in the Classroom, a widely used professional resource for educators. Through her signature programs—the Calm & Connected: Parenting Kids & Teens with ADHD/Executive Function Challenges® parent workshop series, the ADHD Parent Coach Academy, and the ADHD Teacher Training Academy —Cindy has supported and trained thousands of parents and professionals worldwide. She also provides direct coaching to parents, students, and adults navigating ADHD and Executive Function challenges with empathy and actionable strategies. Known for her warm, engaging presence and practical wisdom, Cindy continues to advocate for a more compassionate, informed approach to supporting those who think and learn differently. Things you'll learn from this episode   How reduced stigma and a deeper understanding of neurodiversity are reshaping the ADHD conversation for families and schools Why parenting the child you have means recognizing their unique needs, strengths, and developmental pace How collaborating with kids can reduce power struggles and build self-awareness and confidence Why enabling and supporting are fundamentally different—and how teaching skills fosters true independence How prioritizing connection over correction leads to healthier, more resilient parent–child relationships Why focusing on potential and creating low-stress zones can positively transform family dynamics Resources mentioned Cindy Goldrich’s PTS Coaching website 8 Keys to Parenting Kids & Teens with ADHD: Supporting Your Child's Executive Function by Cindy Goldrich ADHD, Executive Function & Behavioral Challenges in the Classroom by Cindy Goldrich Cindy Goldrich on LinkedIn Cindy Goldrich on Instagram Cindy Goldrich on Facebook Free Download for Tilt Pre-order 8 Key to Parenting Kids & Teens with ADHD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dr. Kristin Neff, pioneering self-compassion researcher, author, and teacher, talks about the power and benefits of practicing self-compassion as parents to differently wired children. In our conversation, Kristin shares what she has learned about self-compassion, both through her research and her own experiences parenting an autistic child. She goes deep into what self-compassion really looks like,  why we are often more compassionate to others than ourselves, and shares some strategies for strengthening that self-compassion muscle both for ourselves and our kids.  ABOUT DR. NEFF Kristin Neff is an Associate Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin. She is a pioneer in the field of self-compassion research, conducting the first empirical studies on self-compassion over fifteen years ago. She has co-developed an empirically supported training program called Mindful Self-Compassion, and is author of the books Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself, Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook, and Teaching the Mindful Self-Compassion Program: A Guide for Professionals.   THINGS YOU’LL LEARN FROM THIS EPISODE: How Dr. Neff got into the work of self-compassion research What it looks like to practice self-compassion Why we judge ourselves so harshly and what keeps us from being a better self-friend What it means to practice self-comfort Strategies parents can use to accept and BE with their suffering How to teach kids and teens about self-compassion   RESOURCES MENTIONED:  Dr. Kristin Neff’s website Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself by Dr. Kristin Neff The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook:  A Proven Way to Accept Yourself, Build Inner Strength, and Thrive by Kristin Neff:  Teaching the Mindful Self-Compassion Program: A Guide for Professionals by Kristin Neff and Christopher Germer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode is a deep dive into tactile defensiveness and sensory distress, especially around clothing. My guest is Kathryn Hamlin-Pacheco, an occupational therapist who helps kids and families understand their brains and bodies through everyday neuroscience. Kathryn will break down what’s actually happening in the brain and nervous system when children experience tactile defensiveness, and why clothing can feel so overwhelming for some kids. We talk about the role of co-regulation, how parents can help create positive associations with getting dressed, and practical strategies for supporting children in navigating their sensory experiences with more safety and less stress. This episode is a grounding, compassionate look at sensory processing—and a reminder that when we understand what’s underneath the behavior, everything shifts. About Kathryn Hamlin-Pacheco Kathryn (Katie) Hamlin-Pacheco, M.S., OTR/L, ASDCS, is an occupational therapist, former teacher, author, and founder of the Brain Executive Program. Kathryn is an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS) and holds certifications in Neuroscience for Mental Health Professionals and in Brain Structure and Function: Application to Sensory Integration and Processing. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy, where she also worked with the Virginia Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities program to pursue her desire to be an advocate and leader in pediatric healthcare. She has shared her work at AOTA’s Inspire Conference (the world’s largest gathering of occupational therapy practitioners!), Sensory Integration Education’s international conference, and at William & Mary’s Center for Gifted Education. In addition, Katie has written for OT Practice Magazine, Autism Parenting Magazine, Washington Family Magazine, and Stars & Stripes Magazine. Her book, How to Be a Brain Executive: And Get Sensory Sharp!, was a top Amazon release in two categories. Things you'll learn from this episode  How tactile defensiveness reflects a nervous system response rather than behavioral resistance Why understanding sensory processing is essential for supporting children with clothing challenges How co-regulation helps children feel safe, connected, and more able to tolerate sensory input Why play and low-pressure practice can make clothing experiences more manageable How creating calm environments and positive associations supports sensory integration over time Why sensory health is a vital part of children’s overall well-being Resources mentioned Brain Executive Program (Kathryn Hamlin-Pacheco’s website) Kathryn’s online Sensory Dressing Course How to Be a Brain Executive: And Get Sensory Sharp! by Kathryn Hamlin-Pacheco Brain Executive Program on Instagram Brain Executive Program on Facebook Deb Dana on Befriending Our Nervous System Using Polyvagal Theory (Tilt Parenting podcast) Dr. Stephen Porges & Karen Onderko on the Safe and Sound Protocol (Tilt Parenting podcast) Dr. Mona Delahooke on the Power of Brain-Body Parenting (Tilt Parenting podcast) Brain-Body Parenting: How to Stop Managing Behavior and Start Raising Joyful, Resilient Kids by Dr. Mona Delahooke Sensory Processing Differences with Carol Kranowitz (Tilt Parenting podcast) The Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Differences by Carol Kranowitz Polyvagal Card Deck: 58 Practices for Calm & Change Polyvagal Practices: Anchoring the Self in Safety by Deb Dana Debbie’s TedxBerlin talk: What if Feeling Broken Wasn't the End of the Story? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is one of only a few solocast episodes I’ve made over the past several years, but I wanted to talk one-on-one with you about self-care. If you’ve read my book or regularly listen to this show, you know I am a big proponent of self-care—I don’t think it’s even close to optional for parents raising neurodivergent kids. And, I also recognize that it can be a hard thing to make time for and prioritize. I get asked a lot about what my self-care looks like, and so today, I’m sharing with you twelve strategies and ideas for creating a sustainable, doable self-care practice. These are all things I rely on and, I give you my word…they work. I’ve also created a printable PDF cheat sheet of these strategies in case you want to print them out and post them somewhere where you’ll regularly see them and be reminded of the importance of prioritizing YOU. Grab it on the show notes page.   RESOURCES MENTIONED: Differently Wired: Raising an Exceptional Child in a Conventional World by Debbie Reber (on Amazon) The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron Yoga With Adriene (YouTube channel) The Scientific 7-Minute Workout (New York Times) Year of Yes: How to Dance it Out, Stand in the Sun, and Be Your Own Person by Shonda Rhimes Dan Pink’s website Eye to Eye Learn Different Days Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s show is all about navigating the school system when your child has disabilities—and how to do that with clarity, confidence, and a whole lot more support. My guest is Stacey Shubitz, author of the new book Make the School System Work for Your Child with Disabilities: Empowering Kids for the Future. In this episode, Stacey shares her journey as both an educator and a parent, and we dig into what parents really need to understand about special education, effective communication with schools, and the IEP process. She offers practical, empowering strategies for advocating for your child, managing the complexity of the system without losing yourself, and finding moments of joy and meaning along the way, even if (or when) the path feels overwhelming. About Stacey Shubitz  Stacey Shubitz is a certified literacy specialist and former fourth- and fifth-grade teacher in the New York City Public Schools and a public charter school in Rhode Island. Since 2009, she has been a literacy consultant, supporting teachers with writing instruction. Stacey has also taught graduate literacy education courses at Lesley University and Penn State–Harrisburg. She is the Chief of Operations and Lead Writer for Two Writing Teachers, a leading resource for writing instruction since 2007. She also co-hosts the Two Writing Teachers Podcast. Stacey earned an M.A. in Literacy Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, and an M.S.Ed. in Childhood Education from Hunter College. She has published several books about writing instruction, including Welcome to Writing Workshop and Craft Moves. Stacey’s most recent book, Make the School System Work for Your Child with Disabilities: Empowering Kids for the Future, was published by Guilford Press in January 2026. In this book, she shares her experiences as both a parent and an educator, equipping families with real-life stories, inclusive resources, and the knowledge to advocate for their children confidently. Stacey lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and children. Things you'll learn from this episode  How Stacey’s dual perspective as an educator and parent strengthens her advocacy for families in special education Why educating yourself about your rights, school processes, and the IEP system is essential for effective advocacy How partnerships with teachers — built through clear, ongoing communication and regular check-ins — support your child’s success Why building a support network helps parents navigate the overwhelm of special education How practicing consistent self-care and finding joy in small moments protects parents from burnout Why celebrating every bit of progress, no matter how small, helps families stay grounded and encouraged Resources mentioned Stacey Shubitz’ website Make the School System Work for Your Child with Disabilities: Empowering Kids for the Future by Stacey Shubitz Parenting Training & Information Centers Two Writing Teachers Blog Two Writing Teachers Podcast Stacey Shubitz’s Substack Stacey Shubitz on Instagram Stacey Shubitz on LinkedIn The Kids Who Aren’t Okay: The Urgent Case for Reimagining Support, Belonging, and Hope in Schools by Dr. Ross Greene Strength-Based Assessments with Dr. Jade Rivera (Tilt Parenting podcast) The Strength-Based Assessment Lab at Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Development Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Picture this. You’re sitting in the neuropsych’s office after you just got your kid’s diagnosis. You’re relieved to have some information on how to help them but have no clue how to explain their neurodivergence to them. Do you talk about the science? Do you wait until they are a certain age where they might understand more about their brains? Or maybe you think about waiting for them to start asking the questions. If you can relate, you’re not alone in wondering what the best way to have this conversation is. And the reality is, the how and when does matter. Dr. Liz Angoff has spent years working with children and families to make learning differences easier to understand. She’s the author of the Brain Building Books, a resource designed to help kids see their neurodivergence as a strength rather than a limitation. In our conversation, Liz shares why early and open discussions about neurodiversity are so important, how parents can guide their children through assessments in a way that fosters trust, and why shifting from a deficit-based model to a discovery-based approach can be transformative for the whole family. We also explore how different kids process this information in their own ways—some may embrace it, while others, especially teenagers, might resist labels altogether. She also provides thoughtful strategies to meet kids where they are and help them feel seen and supported. If you’ve ever struggled with how to talk to your child about their neurodivergence, this episode is full of practical insights and reassurance.   Liz Angoff, Ph.D., is a Licensed Educational Psychologist with a Diploma in School Neuropsychology, providing assessment and consultation services to children and their families in the Bay Area, CA. She is the author of the Brain Building Books, tools for engaging children in understanding their learning and developmental differences. More information about Dr. Liz and her work is available at ⁠www.ExplainingBrains.com⁠.   Things you'll learn from this episode * How early conversations about neurodiversity help normalize differences and make children feel unique and valued * Why parents should approach assessments as discovery processes rather than problem-solving exercises * How to prepare children for assessments by discussing their experience to foster understanding and trust * The importance of respecting how children choose to process information about their neurodivergence, especially teenagers resistant to labels Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today we’re taking a fresh, much-needed look at screen time—one that moves beyond fear, shame, and power struggles and into something far more nuanced and humane. My guest is Ash Brandin, also known as TheGamerEducator, and the author of the new book, Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family. In this episode, Ash and I talk about screen time through the lenses of social equity and moral neutrality, and why empowering kids with skills, not control, is key to navigating technology well. We also explore practical strategies for managing screen use, how engaging with kids around their interests can change everything, and what a truly collaborative approach to technology can look like inside families. This is a grounded, compassionate conversation for anyone feeling stuck or conflicted about screens and modern parenting. About Ash Brandin, EdS Ash Brandin, EdS, known online as TheGamerEducator, empowers families to make screen time sustainable, manageable, and beneficial for the whole family. Now in their 15th year of teaching middle school, they help caregivers navigate the world of tech with consistent, loving boundaries, founded on respect for children, appreciation of video games and tech, and knowledge of pedagogical techniques. Ash has appeared on podcasts including Thinking with Adam Grant, Good Inside with Dr. Becky, and Culture Study with Anne Helen Petersen, and has contributed to articles featured on Romper, Scary Mommy, Lifehacker, The Daily Beast, USA Today, and NPR. Their bestselling book, Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family debuted in August, 2025. In their free time, Ash loves to hike, bake, play video games, and spend time with their family. Things you'll learn from this episode  How screen time can be reframed more positively when we move away from fear-based narratives Why understanding social equity issues is essential for having nuanced, moral-neutral conversations about technology How focusing on access, behavior, and content helps parents manage screen time more effectively Why empowering kids with skills—and engaging with their interests—builds trust and connection How creating safe, clear boundaries allows children to explore technology responsibly Why collaborative approaches (and simple tools like the sticky note trick) make screen time transitions smoother and more supportive Resources mentioned Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family by Ash Brandin Ash Brandin on Instagram The Game Educator (Ash Brandin’s Substack) The Game Educator (website) Meryl Alper on Screens & Growing Up Autistic in the Digital Age (Tilt Parenting podcast) Kids Across the Spectrums: Growing Up Autistic in the Digital Age by Meryl Alper (via MIT Press website) Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World by Dr. Devorah Heitner Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive (and Survive) in Their Digital World by Dr. Devorah Heitner Dr. Devorah Heitner on Online Safety, Internet “Rabbit Holes,” and Differently Wired Kids (Tilt Parenting Podcast) Dr. Devorah Heitner on the Pros & Cons of “Managing” Our Kids’ Screen Time (Tilt Parenting podcast) Dr. Devorah Heitner on Parenting Kids Who Are Growing Up Online (Tilt Parenting podcast) Dr. Alok Kanojia on How to Raise Healthy Gamers (Tilt Parenting podcast) We Asked Roblox's C.E.O. About Child Safety (Hard Fork episode) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I know that there are concerns among many families that their child’s self-esteem can be negatively impacted by a label, or that others, including teachers may treat a child differently if they know they have one or more diagnoses, especially because of the stigma associated with neurodifferences. So this is what Dr. Karen Wilson and I get into — demystifying the process and offering suggestions for approaching these important conversations.  In our conversation, Karen breaks down the kind of language we can use when talking with kids about their diagnosis, as well as how that conversation will likely continue to evolve as our kids get older. We also talked about how to navigate this process with a child or teen who is resistant to labels, why it’s critical that we have all of these conversations from a foundation of prioritizing and recognizing strengths.  and how to have this conversation in a household with neurotypical siblings. Dr. Karen Wilson is a Clinical Neuropsychologist, Director of West LA Neuropsychology, PC, the founder of ChildNEXUS.com, and the host of the Diverse Thinking · Different Learning podcast. She specializes in the assessment of neurodevelopmental disorders in children and adolescents, and she has extensive experience evaluating children and adults who present with neurological, medical and psychiatric disorders. Things you'll learn from this episode: * What a diagnosis actually is and what it can mean to a family * How to balance communication surrounding your child’s areas of strengths and weaknesses so the emphasis is not on challenges * What types of language to use when talking with your kids about their diagnoses, and how to evolve language as kids get older * How to navigate talking with children and teens about their neurodifferences if they’re resistant to labels or being “otherized” * Best practices for talking about diagnoses in households with neurotypical siblings * How to give kids the tools and empowerment they need to ultimately feel confident navigating situations in their lives where they are judged by their diagnosis and related stigma Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today’s episode is a little different—it’s just me, revisiting the Tilt Manifesto I wrote back in 2015 as part of my development of Tilt Parenting. In this solocast, I share the context in which that manifesto was born, what was happening in my own life as a parent of a neurodivergent child at the time, and why there felt like such an urgent need to challenge the dominant parenting narratives around compliance, productivity, and “normal.” This is a look back — and a look forward — rooted in gratitude, curiosity, and hope. Resources Mentioned The Tilt Manifesto  Jonathan Field’s podcast The Good Life Project Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices