All Aboard ADHD

Why do so many children with ADHD struggle to make (and keep) friends, and what can parents do to support them?In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD Podcast, Claire is joined by award-winning author, coach, and ADHD social skills expert Caroline Maguire to explore one of the most important and often painful aspects of raising a child with ADHD: friendships. Caroline has ADHD herself, is the author of the bestselling book ‘Why Will No One Play With Me?’, and her upcoming book ‘Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults’ (out April 2026) builds on decades of experience helping children, teens, and adults connect socially.Together, Claire and Caroline dive deep into why children with ADHD often struggle socially and more importantly, what parents and carers can do to help. Their conversation covers:How executive function delays affect social skills, including conversation, self-regulation, and perspective-takingWhy environment plays such a huge role in a child’s social success and how parents can seek out spaces where their children feel acceptedThe impact of repeated criticism, rejection, and anxiety on kids’ self-esteem and social confidence, plus practical ways to build their resilienceThe key difference between masking and learning genuine social skills and why teaching children authentic strategies is crucialCore friendship skills ADHD kids need: starting conversations, keeping up with peers, reading social cues, and “dropping pings” to find their peopleWhy practice, persistence, and celebrating small wins are essential to help children build their confidence and lasting connectionsThe importance of strengths-based parenting: helping children recognise the traits that make them great friends, rather than just focusing on challengesHow parents and even adults with ADHD can begin their own “friendship journey,” modelling healthy social growth for their childrenWhether you’re raising a child who is lonely, struggling with rejection, or just beginning to navigate social worlds, this episode is packed with empathy, strategies, and hope. This episode was recorded in August 2025.Further resources and links:Buy Caroline’s book Why Will No One Play With Me? (winner of multiple awards including the Best Book Award from American Book Fest and Mums’ Choice Award)Pre-order Caroline’s new book Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults (out April 2026)Caroline’s podcast: The ADHD Social PlaybookLearn more about Caroline’s work: https://www.carolinemaguireauthor.comFollow Caroline on Instagram @authorcarolinemADHD coaching and resources from Claire: https://allaboardadhd.comFollow Claire on Instagram & TikTok: @allaboardADHDThe views shared in this episode are those of the guest, based on their professional expertise and personal experience. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, educational, or psychological advice. Please consult a qualified professional for personalised support relevant to your individual circumstances.

In this episode, Claire is joined by specialist education, equality, and public law barrister Alice de Coverley to tackle a difficult but crucial topic: school exclusions for children with ADHD and your legal rights. Alice is also a trustee for the charity Neurodiversity in Law and was named the Legal 500 ESG 2024 Disability & Neurodiversity Bar Champion of the Year. She co-authored the book A Practical Guide to the Law of School Exclusions.Alice and Claire's discussion provides invaluable advice for parents, covering:⚖️ The legal definition of a school exclusion, plus the difference between fixed-term and permanent exclusions⚖️ How state schools and private schools are governed by different legal frameworks when it comes to exclusion. The Equality Act applies in both cases - often a key piece of law in exclusion cases involving children with disabilities.⚖️ Why children with special educational needs or disabilities, particularly ADHD, are more likely to be at risk of exclusion, plus insight into how ADHD symptoms such as impulsivity, hyperactivity, emotional dysregulation, and distractibility can often be viewed solely as "behavioural problems" by schools. ⚖️ How school exclusions, especially at a young age, lead to a profound feeling of rejection from adults and can be incredibly damaging to a child's self-esteem and mental health in the long term.⚖️ Why exclusion should be a last resort, plus your legal rights under the Equality Act, and why schools are legally required to look at the context behind the behaviour, plus make reasonable adjustments in the lead-up to any disciplinary action for a child with a disability.⚖️The potential impact of children starting titration for ADHD medication and how parents can work with schools during this process to minimise the risk of exclusion.⚖️ The steps to take when a school makes the decision to exclude, including requesting written reasons, gathering relevant documentation (e.g. a recent diagnosis), being aware of the 15 day window to submit your appeal to an Independent Review Panel (IRP), and crucially, the right to ask for a Special Educational Needs (SEN) expert to attend the panel for free. This expert provides an objective view on how your child's SEN is relevant to the exclusion and can be an incredibly useful resource that not many parents are aware of.Whether you're battling your first exclusion or feeling exhausted by repeated challenges, this episode is a must-listen for parents or carers facing exclusion of their child from school, and is packed with practical advice as well as a reassuring look at your legal rights as part of this process.This episode was recorded on 11th July 2025.Further resources for free legal advice and support are available as follows:BBC article quoted in the episode: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c784ezdmnp4oThe School Exclusion Project - a free legal support service for parents https://www.schoolexclusionproject.com/ Just for Kids https://www.justforkidslaw.org/contact-usThe School Inclusion project - https://gardencourtchambers.co.uk/event/launch-event-the-school-inclusion-project/ Alice’s book "A Practical Guide to the Law of School Exclusions" https://www.amazon.co.uk/Practical-Guide-Relation-School-Exclusions/dp/1912687518 The first-tier tribunal offers a fast-tracked process for disability discrimination claims related to permanent exclusions https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/652f92d46b6fbf000db75872/SEND4_0423_access.pdf The views shared in this episode are those of the guest, based on their professional expertise and/or personal experience. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, educational, or psychological advice. Please consult a qualified professional for personalised support relevant to your individual circumstances.

How can parents navigate the many and varied challenges of raising neurodivergent children with ADHD and autism?In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire is joined by Devin, adoptive father of two neurodivergent children, both of whom are diagnosed with ADHD and autism, and former Head of Technology in the finance industry. Devin also has late-diagnosed ADHD himself and is now a full-time parent carer for his children, as well as supporting other families who are struggling to navigate life as new SEN or Adoptive Parents. Devin shares honestly and openly about his parenting journey, including some of the early signs of neurodiversity in his children, which were harder for him to spot as they can sometimes be mistaken for attachment or trauma-related behaviours in adopted children. He describes their diagnosis process, sharing some of the differences between the two and providing examples of how traits can manifest differently in girls and boys. Devin also shares his feelings of grief and relief around accepting his children’s differences. With a diagnosis in place, Devin discusses the impact of medication and how it has helped both of his children in terms of their mood and behaviour. Many parents will relate to the challenges he describes in terms of daily routines and school refusal, particularly as an ADHD parent himself! Devin also shares some of the challenges he faced advocating for his children and their needs, to ensure they found the right educational environment. Following a challenging period of overwhelm and stress around school avoidance, Devin made the decision to take his son out of school. This led to many challenges navigating the EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) process for his son, but he was eventually successful in ensuring his son had the right educational setup to thrive. Devin also shares some incredible examples of how he has taken the time to deeply understand his children and what works for them.Finally, Claire and Devin discuss some of the emotional challenges of parenting and the need to constantly adapt parenting strategies for their children as they grow. They both stress the importance of seeking community support, encouraging parents listening to share their experiences and ultimately feel less alone.The episode is an honest, relatable conversation about how to navigate neurodiversity as a parent, showcasing the power of resilience, acceptance, and unconditional love.Find out more about Devin and his work at: www.thesensibleapproach.com

What are some of the most common co-existing conditions that exist alongside ADHD, and how can parents identify them in their children?Join Claire and expert guest Professor James Brown in this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast to understand which conditions most commonly co-exist with ADHD and crucially, why that might be. Professor James is a biomedical scientist, ADHD coach, the co-founder of ADHD Adult UK, and one of the creators of the ADHD adults podcast. Diagnosed with ADHD in adulthood, James brings both academic expertise and personal insight to his work. He is also the co-author of ADHD Unpacked, which provides a practical and honest guide to understanding ADHD in everyday life.Professor James begins by giving some examples of what a co-existing (or co-morbid) condition might look like in children with ADHD, for instance, anxiety disorders, dyspraxia, dyslexia, autism, and mood disorders. Incredibly, 60-70% of children with ADHD will have at least one co-existing condition, with 40% having two or more. Despite the prevalence of co-existing conditions, Professor James sheds light on the challenges around diagnosis, due to overlapping symptoms and the limitations of current diagnostic tools, stressing the need for a more holistic approach to diagnosing neurodivergent conditions.Together they dive deep into some of the fascinating biological and social factors behind ADHD and co-existing conditions, including key insight into how ADHD and mood disorders impact the brain, plus the potential role of inflammation, where research is still very much emerging. Professor James also explains the challenges of diagnosing ADHD in children with other conditions like dyslexia, encouraging a "yes and" mindset in the diagnosis process, rather than “either or.” With the right knowledge, parents are better able to advocate for their children and improve their understanding of ADHD, so Claire and Professor James discuss the need for a more inclusive and accepting understanding of neurodivergent conditions, reducing the shame and stigma around difference. Finally, Professor James emphasises the need to consider multiple domains of a child's life, including sleep, socialisation, and emotional control to ensure the right diagnosis. He also encourages parents to trust their gut and seek deeper understanding if they feel their child is not getting the right support. He and Claire also explore some of the lesser-known conditions that can co-exist with ADHD, such as sensory processing differences, demand avoidance, social anxiety and addiction.This episode is a must-listen for parents looking to understand and support their children with ADHD, especially where they suspect one or more co-occurring conditions.To find out more about Professor James and his work, head to: https://jbhd.uk/ You can find out more about his charity here: https://www.adhdadult.uk/To order a copy of his book - ADHD Unpacked - head to: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/adhd-unpacked-9781526679369/ To listen to his podcast The ADHD Adults head to: https://open.spotify.com/show/2oYZwGakl7shJFG0lJ8JMt The views shared in this episode are those of the guest, based on their professional expertise and/or personal experience. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, educational, or psychological advice. Please consult a qualified professional for personalised support relevant to your individual circumstances. 

Trigger warning: this episode contains detailed personal accounts of Kit's experiences, some of which could be emotionally challenging for some listeners, including suicide, addiction, eating disorders and self-harm.In this episode of All Aboard ADHD, Claire is joined by special guest Kit Birks - writer, adventurer, mental health activist and recovering addict living with ADHD and bipolar disorder. Kit speaks with raw honesty, breaking the silence around mental illness and vowing that no one should ever feel as alone or misunderstood as she once did. Her debut poetry collection “Burnt Toast” captures the quiet strength it takes to keep going and the beauty that can grow from brokenness. She is now undertaking “Stride Beyond Silence” - a world record solo trek spanning over 8500km, across ten countries, to raise awareness for suicide prevention.Kit shares a deeply personal account of her journey, with an ADHD diagnosis at 26, during her recovery from addiction, followed by a bipolar diagnosis a year later. Kit discusses the relief she felt afterwards as her “jigsaw puzzle” started to come together and the impact of being told by her psychiatrist that she had “done so well to get this far”. Kit also shares some of her early struggles with mental health, including insomnia, depression, and eating disorders, starting at just 12 years old. With a lack of information and education about ADHD at the time, and Kit being deemed “unteachable”, she began to feel more like a problem than a person. As an adult, Kit shares the huge impact her diagnosis had in terms of helping her to feel more understood and less alone in her struggles.Kit goes on to talk about the strengths she has developed despite her personal challenges, such as her ability to excel when she is particularly passionate about something. She discusses how her experiences have fueled her passion for helping others and why she believes reducing stigma around mental health is important. A key turning point came for her in early 2022, when she hit rock bottom and decided to seek help and attend a meeting with a friend. This marked the beginning of her process to empty her "invisible rucksack" of shame and trauma and ultimately learning to accept herself. Kit also explains how she discovered poetry as “a form of therapy” shortly after starting her recovery and how her book, "Burnt Toast," chronicles her journey from pain, to healing, and blooming, through poetry.Finally, Kit introduces her phenomenal solo trek, "Stride Beyond Silence," on which she has just embarked, to raise awareness for suicide prevention. She also offers a message of hope for parents of children with ADHD, stressing the positive impact of honest conversations and reassuring them that “even when it feels like it won't, it really will be okay.”Follow Kit’s trek on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube @kitbirksYou can find out more about her trek here: https://www.kitbirks.com/stridebeyondsilenceAnd donate to support her mission to raise awareness for suicide prevention here: https://givestar.io/gs/stride-beyond-silence-arctic-to-aegean The views shared in this episode are those of the guest, based on their professional expertise and/or personal experience. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, educational, or psychological advice. Please consult a qualified professional for personalised support relevant to your individual circumstances. 

How do we best support our ADHD kids with explosive behaviour?In this episode of All Aboard ADHD, Claire is joined by expert guest Sarah Ockwell-Smith to discuss ADHD and explosive behaviours. Sarah is a well-known parenting expert and author who writes about the psychology and science of parenting. She specialises in gentle parenting - a movement she is often credited as founding - and “childism”, which is the unconscious discrimination of children in society. Sarah is the mother of four young adults, including a son with ADHD. She has ADHD and autism herself. Her latest book, "Raising Attention" is a compassionate, evidence-informed, and deeply personal guide for anybody who has or works with children with ADHD and explosive behaviours.Sarah begins by defining the term ‘explosive behavior’, which can be anything from verbal aggression to physical actions, and how it relates to ADHD. She describes what drives explosive behaviour and what is going on for children on the inside in those moments. Whilst not all children with ADHD exhibit explosive behavior, and the term is not limited to children with ADHD, it can pose significant challenges, particularly at school. Claire and Sarah discuss the term ‘naughty’ and how it can keep children stuck in the "cycle of shame," where they feel useless and shamed, leading to more explosive behavior. Sarah also provides a challenge to the ethos of “all behaviour is communication”, highlighting the role of brain development as another potential driver of children’s behaviour, preferring to say "all behaviour has a reason".They go on to discuss the challenges of parenting and the importance of focusing on the child's well-being and long-term development, rather than compliance. Sarah provides some insight into the benefits of understanding your child’s triggers and capabilities. She also shares some practical strategies for parents to help them manage tricky situations, particularly when out in public, along with the importance of repairing and reconnecting with your child after a meltdown.Finally, Sarah shares her viewpoint on how schools can better support children with ADHD. Whilst many teachers understand the needs of neurodivergent children they are often limited by the educational system itself. Sarah encourages parents to celebrate small successes with their ADHD kids and to accept them as they are, rather than trying to change them.If you are looking for practical strategies to better support your ADHD child with explosive behaviour, this episode is a must-listen!You can order a copy of Sarah’s brand new book “Raising Attention” (release date 3rd July 2025):https://amzn.eu/d/0iAyXhzTo find out more about Sarah and her work:https://sarahockwell-smith.com/To follow Sarah on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sarahockwellsmithThe views shared in this episode are those of the guest, based on their professional expertise and/or personal experience. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, educational, or psychological advice. Please consult a qualified professional for personalised support relevant to your individual circumstances. 

How can sport benefit ADHD and neurodivergent kids?In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire is joined by special guest Caragh McMurty to discuss the challenges and strengths of neurodivergence in sport. Caragh is a Team GB and Olympic rower, as well as being the co-founder and CEO of Neurodiverse Sport - whose mission is to empower athletes, participants, volunteers, and professionals to create a future where neuroinclusive practice is the norm, not the exception. Caragh speaks passionately about the danger of relying too heavily on labels and is determined to challenge common neurodiversity misconceptions to ensure athletes at all levels feel supported - from grassroots to elite competition. She is passionate about the transformative power in sports to empower neurodivergent individuals to learn, grow and self-regulate.Caragh kicks off by sharing a raw and honest look at her own journey, beginning with being misdiagnosed with anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, until finally receiving an autism diagnosis in her late 20s and beginning to suspect ADHD. Although she presented a ‘tough as nails’ exterior to avoid being bullied, Caragh felt vulnerable underneath it all - a fact that went unappreciated by peers and coaches alike. She explains how gaining the right diagnosis has since helped her better understand her brain and advocate for herself, particularly in sport. Certain environments in sport can cause sensory overload, which Caragh explains can be mistaken for a lack of motivation to exercise but is actually key for mental health. She also shares insight into some of the stereotypes about neurodiversity in sport and why we need to challenge them to ensure children can thrive.Claire and Caragh discuss the need for flexible systems in sport to accommodate neurodivergent individuals and the impact of positive reinforcement from coaches, particularly for children with ADHD. Caragh goes on to talk about Neurodiverse Sport’s mission to raise awareness and promote neuroinclusive practices in all sports, to ensure children feel fully understood and supported. She encourages parents to find a supportive community and to play an active role in helping their children thrive in sport.To find out more about Caragh and Neurodiverse Sport, head to: https://www.neurodiversesport.com/

Why is emotional regulation more challenging for children with ADHD - and how can we help our kids cope better with their emotions?In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire is joined by expert guest Dr Alessio Bellato to discuss the fascinating link between ADHD and emotional regulation. Dr Alessio is a Lecturer in Child and Adolescent Mental Health at the University of Southampton and a Psychologist with expertise in Child Psychiatry and Psychology. Whilst it is not part of the official DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for ADHD, emotional regulation can pose a significant challenge for children with ADHD and of course, parents too. In this episode, Claire and Dr Alessio discuss how emotional regulation develops. Rather than something we are born with, it is a skill we learn as we develop, and social acceptance plays a key role. Dr Alessio also touches on the difference between emotional reactivity and regulation and how different regions of the brain handle these processes in children with ADHDDr Alessio also describes some of the emotional dysregulation challenges for children with ADHD - for example, increased reactivity and sensitivity, difficulties with challenging behaviour like bullying, plus the challenges of managing teacher and parent expectations as they transition from primary to secondary school. He provides some interesting insight into Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) and the impact of real and perceived rejection on emotional regulation, for example, if children feel excluded from a friend group, rejected by a potential partner in their teens, or for a job. Dr Alessio describes how “putting rejection into context” and discussing the consequences of potential rejection with children can help them interpret it and better cope with it as they grow up.Claire and Dr Alessio go on to describe how we can learn to regulate our emotions with healthy coping strategies, providing insight into what happens in the brain when we react to stress and why babies cry so much. He also explains how emotional regulation is first something we rely on our caregivers for, and how we eventually learn to regulate our nervous system as we grow up. Finally, they discuss the different options to support emotional dysregulation in ADHD children. Dr Alessio shares some fascinating findings from a meta-analysis (as yet unpublished as of May 2025) on different interventions, showing that medication, behavioural therapies, coaching, and also exercise can be helpful to support children in regulating their emotions. He also describes how medication and other interventions can work in harmony to create better outcomes for people with ADHD, by “calming our mind and also our body”. Dr Alessio also invites parents to reflect on their own emotional regulation and the behaviours they model for their children as a result, emphasising the impact of speaking openly about your feelings with your children, particularly during big life transitions.This episode is a must-listen for parents looking to understand emotional regulation and reactivity in their ADHD children, and how best to support their kids to cope better with their feelings.To find out more about Alessio and his work, head to:https://telegraph.co.uk/gift/757cfcff3a168b76https://www.olihelp.com/post/emotional-regulation-and-adhd-how-can-we-better-manage-our-emotionsTo read other relevant papers on emotional regulation and dysregulation:https://www.jaacap.org/article/S0890-8567(24)00304-6/fulltexthttps://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/14/5/453https://www.jaacap.org/article/S0890-8567(23)00075-8/fulltexthttps://acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jcv2.12148

What is an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan, and how do you get one for your child?In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast, we get the facts on EHCPs and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disability) law with expert guest, Douglas Hamer. Douglas breaks down the legal essentials of EHCPs: what they are, how to get one, and what to do when things get complicated. We also touch on school placements, home education and EOTAS (Education Otherwise Than At School). Douglas is a specialist SEND solicitor who brings both professional expertise and lived experience of neurodivergence, to his work supporting families. Douglas's work focuses on EHCPs, ensuring they secure the right provision and placement for the child or young person, as well as ensuring they're worded robustly to protect the child or young person in the future.This episode is packed with key facts on the legalities of EHCPs and SEND law, along with guidance and insight for parents navigating this complex and often difficult system. Douglas walks us through: Understanding EHCPs - Douglas lays out the specifics of your legal rights, busts some myths around who can request an EHC Plan and also explains that an EHC Plan shouldn’t be seen as a "golden ticket”, rather, it is an important legal right to necessary provisions for children and young people.Your Legal Rights - Douglas elaborates on your legal rights under the Equality Act and the different provisions available under an EHC Plan, such as specialist teaching, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and psychological input. He also provides key details on how special educational needs are identified, the threshold for requiring an EHC Plan, plus how EHC Plans are funded.How to get an EHC Plan - If you suspect your child might need an EHC Plan, Douglas provides insight into how to request a needs assessment, what you can expect from a SENCO, and how the SEND Code of Practice works to continually assess whether your child is getting the right support.Why EHC Plan requests are often refused - and crucially, what parents can do about it. Douglas stresses the importance of “not taking no for an answer”,  maintaining a paper trail of evidence, and appealing decisions to the SEND tribunal.How to draft an EHC Plan - Douglas advises parents on how to include specific and measurable provisions, plus he describes what role independent educational experts play in the assessment process.Naming a preferred school in an EHC Plan - Douglas discusses why parents should consult with appropriate schools to provide a list for the local authority to consider, the challenges of securing placements in expensive independent schools, and the potential for appeals.The difference between elective home education (EHE) and EOTAS (Education Otherwise Than At School) - Douglas outlines what options parents have available as alternatives to traditional school placements, plus their parental legal obligations to educate their children vs the responsibility of the local authority. He also describes how the goal of EOTAS and EHC Plans is ideally to eventually support children to return to bricks-and-mortar education.Douglas’ personal journey - he also shares his experience of being diagnosed with dyspraxia at 13 and later with ADHD and Autism, plus how this understanding has helped him develop his own coping mechanisms, and improve his emotional regulation and relationships.This is a must-listen for all parents of SEN children, no matter where they are on their journey, providing a wealth of factual legal guidance on how to navigate a tricky system and still get the right educational support in place for their child.To find out more about Douglas and his work, head to: https://www.geldards.com/our-people/douglas-hamer/ 

Does your child with ADHD have an outlet for their creativity?In this episode of All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire is joined by special guest Rachel Fuller to share her inspiring ADHD story. Rachel is a composer, arranger and singer-songwriter, and has been making music since she was 10 years old. As such, her creative journey is deeply intertwined with her personal experiences. Diagnosed with ADHD in her late 40s, she navigated childhood challenges within the confines of mainstream education, emerging with a profound understanding of difference. Rachel’s talent and achievements provide a “crystal ball” for parents on the ADHD journey, illustrating just one of the ways ADHD creativity can shape a fulfilling and enjoyable career path.Rachel begins by describing her ADHD ‘aha’ moment when, prompted by a friend sharing their own diagnosis, she read Driven to Distraction by Hallowell and Ratey. Despite being initially skeptical about ADHD and believing it was just a label for “naughty kids”, she gradually came to recognise her own symptoms and seek a professional diagnosis. This led to her understanding ADHD as a physical condition rather than a character flaw.With her passion for music beginning at such a young age, Rachel goes on to describe how music provided a therapeutic outlet to help her cope with her high levels of anxiety. Due to the lack of emotional support she received at home and in school, Rachel learned to mask and internalise her anxiety, feeling inherently “different” and envious of her peers who just seemed to find things easier. Claire and Rachel discuss the importance of truly understanding ADHD in children in order to provide them with the support they need, and the impact that could have had for Rachel in her own childhood.Rachel’s encourages parents of ADHD children to watch out for their strengths and support their creative expression, particularly through the arts as they provide an ideal outlet for their energy. She also shares some wonderful insight into the story behind her book. Set to an original soundtrack, BEE is an enchanting story that inspires compassion and acceptance, and provides a fantastic resource for parents looking to support their children to find their own magical place in the world.To buy a copy of BEE, head to: https://www.amazon.co.uk/BEE-story-that-celebrates-differences/dp/1916797296To find out more about Rachel and her work, head to:https://www.instagram.com/rachelfullertownshend/?hl=en

If you have a child who has an ADHD diagnosis, how likely are they to also fulfil the criteria for autism? And how can you best support them?In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire is joined by expert guest Professor Emily Simonoff to discuss the fascinating link and crossover between ADHD and autism in children. Emily is a professor of child and adolescent psychiatry at the Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience at King's College London, and honorary consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist at the South London and Wardsley NHS Foundation Trust. Professor Emily's research and clinical focus is on neurodevelopmental disorders in children and young people and their overlap with other mental disorders.A dual diagnosis was only possible from 2013, following a pivotal study in 2008 which was one of the first to establish that ADHD and autism can and do coexist. According to Professor Emily, the overlap between autism and ADHD is significant, with approximately 10-15% of children with ADHD also having autism, and 40-50% of those with autism having ADHD. She and Claire discuss the complexity of this crossover, stressing the importance of rigorous professional assessment to accurately diagnose both conditions. Professor Emily describes the genetic links between ADHD and autism, along with some fascinating insight from studies that compare identical and non-identical twins to better understand these genetic influences. Claire and Professor Emily go on to discuss why it's so important to recognise the overlap between ADHD and autism and how it manifests specifically for that child, highlighting how understanding their “whole profile” has a huge impact on a their ability to acheive their best potential. Professor Emily explains some of the differences in diagnostic assessments for autism and ADHD and shares some examples of how traits that go in one direction or another can balance themselves out when a child has both conditions.Having both ADHD and autism can significantly effect a child's self-perception and confidence, so Professor Emily highlights the importance of disentangling traits related to autism and ADHD, to ensure children are getting the right support. She also describes the link between anxiety and depression in children with both conditions, with anxiety more common during primary school and depression often presenting later, in secondary school. Claire and Professor Emily also discuss some of the ways we can better support children with dual diagnoses, including building positive experiences outside of school that feed into their interests and strengths, and considering a child's needs as they transition from primary to secondary school.This is a must-listen for parents of children with dual diagnoses, or who suspect that their autistic or ADHD child is also displaying traits of the other profile.To find out about Professor Emily and her work, visit:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18645422/https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/emily-simonoffhttps://www.researchgate.net/profile/Emily-Simonoff

How can we better support children’s learning needs in school - without having to rely on formal diagnoses?The Universal Classroom project, led by Professor Joel Talcott, aims to address the crisis in special educational needs (SEN) provision in UK primary education. Joel is Professor of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience at Aston University. His core research professional interests and outputs lie in interdisciplinary cognitive neuroscience, particularly in relation to the neurodevelopmental conditions that impact the learning and achievement outcomes of approximately 5% of all children and adults worldwide. In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire and Professor Joel discuss how the Universal Classroom project will identify children’s individual learning needs early, reducing the reliance on formal diagnostic labels and providing free, non-proprietary tools for teachers to assess and support children's cognitive skills.Claire and Professor Joel begin by discussing the impact of current underfunding and inefficiencies in the UK education system, particularly in SEN funding, and the government's commitment to additional resources and reform. With the Universal Classroom taking a strengths-based approach, Professor Joel describes how it is ideally placed to bridge the gap  and create a fairer system where all children have access to appropriate educational support, ultimately dissolving the barrier between special educational needs and general educational needs.Professor Joel also emphasies the need for a positive approach to SEN provision, with the universal classroom project aiming to create a collaborative environment where teachers, parents, and children work together to support learning. Claire and Professor Joel also discuss the long-term potential of the project, including reducing the need for formal diagnostic labels, reducing inequalities in SEN provision, improving children's learning outcomes and reducing economic losses.This episode is a must-listen for parents navigating the challenges of the current SEN system and offers a real message of hope for the future of the education system.To find out more about Professor Joel Talcott and his work, visit:Joel's profile - https://research.aston.ac.uk/en/persons/joel-talcottSchool of Psychology - https://www.aston.ac.uk/hls/school-of-psychologyIHN - https://www.aston.ac.uk/research/hls/ihnInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/astonuniversity/

How much can the right support make a difference to children with ADHD - and their parents?In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire is joined by Kate Peers - mum of 3 boys and owner of Department Store for the Mind, an online shop that allows you to explore the world inside your head. Kate is also a Youth Mental Health First Aid England Trainer. In this episode Kate shares some wonderful examples of the difference the right help and support can make to children with ADHD - and their parents.Claire reached out to Kate in February 2019 via DM after reading a blog that Kate had written for Molly Gunn (aka Selfish Mother), at a time when she was feeling unbelievably alone following her son’s diagnosis. Kate's blog post was the very first time Claire had felt seen or understood, and emphasises the importance of parents connecting with each other to support each other on their ADHD journey.Kate shares her story raising three boys, including her middle son diagnosed with ADHD and ASD. She describes some of the early signs of ADHD in her middle son, such as difficulty waiting and high energy levels. Following a challenging wait going through the process with the NHS, Kate shares the relief and validation she felt upon receiving her son's diagnosis. They go on to discuss some of the challenges of transitioning from primary to secondary school. Including a special story Kate tells about a Teaching Assistant who supported her son, highlighting the profound impact that supportive and trusted adults can have on a child’s life.Claire and Kate reflect on the importance of advocacy and the role of educating yourself about ADHD as much as possible, especially on how differently it can present, for example in girls versus boys. They also share their experiences of connecting with other parents on social media and finding hope in their stories, highlighting the importance of building a supportive ADHD community.This episode is an honest, inspiring and uplifting story of connection and support - a must-listen for parents, wherever they are on their ADHD journey.

How does nutrition impact ADHD symptoms in children? And what action can we, as parents, take to better support our children and their diet?In this episode of  the All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire is joined by expert guest Lucinda Miller - family naturopath, functional medicine practitioner, author, coach and mentor for kids with ADHD and autism. She and Claire discuss how the food can affect the mood, behaviour and concentration of children with ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions. This episode offers judgement-free insight and practical, achievable strategies for parents facing the very real food challenges of their neurodivergent children.Lucinda begins by sharing her approach to nutrition - which you can read more about in her new book Brain Brilliance - along with her own experience with ADHD and how food affects her day-to-day life. She describes the importance of zinc and iron in brain function, mood, and behavior, and how deficiencies can affect children with ADHD, for example expressing their mood and behaviour through food choices. We learn the crucial role zinc plays in a wide range of areas, from supporting the immune system and digestive health, to taste and smell, which can affect a child’s willingness to try new foods. Lucinda goes on to explain the role of dopamine and tyrosine in ADHD and how iron deficiencies can impair dopamine production - a crucial neurotransmitter for anyone with ADHD.Claire and Lucinda also dive into the impact of nutritional deficiencies on ADHD and gut health in neurodivergent children. Lucinda talks through the daily nutritional needs for iron and zinc (especially for teenagers and children going through growth spurts), shares insight into the high prevalence of gut issues in children with autism, and how this can affect both nutrient absorption and brain function. She explains how ultra-processed foods are highly addictive and can exacerbate ADHD symptoms and suggests some simple, practical strategies parents can adopt to introduce new foods and improve their child’s nutrient intake through dietary changes. For example, adding zinc drops to favourite foods, as well as using probiotics to support gut health and digestive enzymes to improve nutrient absorption. She also shares insight into the role of using supplements as "scaffolding" while working on longer-term dietary changes, particularly for fussy eaters.Blood sugar can also affect brain function and behaviour in children with ADHD, so Lucinda briefly explains how this can look. She also shares key information around the benefits of a high-protein, high-fat diet to help children maintain stable blood sugar levels and improve their focus and concentration. This episode is a must-listen for parents looking to understand how diet and nutrition can help their children with ADHD, especially if they are fussy eaters, and offers practical, achievable solutions, rather than yet another guilt trip!

What is demand avoidance and how does it show up in children with ADHD?In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast, we hear from Naomi Fisher, a clinical psychologist specialising in neurodiversity and trauma, for a fantastic discussion around demand avoidance, and pathological demand avoidance (PDA), along with the positive impact of low demand parenting on children with ADHD. Dr Naomi is the author of several books, with the most recent being “When The Naughty Step Makes Things Worse” with Eliza Fricker. This book is an incredible parenting guide for parents who find that conventional parenting techniques just doesn’t work for their child.Dr Naomi begins by explaining that demand avoidance is actually a behavioral trait often driven by anxiety, particularly in autistic children but also in those with ADHD. She describes how "demand avoidance" refers to a general tendency to resist demands, whereas PDA refers to a more specific, severe form of demand avoidance, which can lead to significant distress and disruption in daily life. Dr Naomi provides some all-too familar examples of how conventional parenting techniques can backfire with demand avoidant children, leading to conflicts and battles. She then goes on to define ‘low demand parenting’, describing it as active and involved parenting without control, with more of a focus on reducing demands to help children manage their emotions and develop skills. Dr Naomi describes what is going on for our children when they hear something like ‘put your shoes on’ more than once and emphasises the importance of reducing everyday demands, to help children stay in a "window of tolerance" where they can more effectively learn and develop the skills they need for later life.Claire and Dr Naomi also discuss screen time - a hot topic for many parents. Video games such as Minecraft can actually play a valuable role for demand avoidant children, helping them feel more in control and practice emotional regulation. Dr Naomi emphasises the need for parents to value their children's interests, and provides some much-need reassurance that parents’ efforts are crucial for building a strong, lasting relationship with their children. If your child with ADHD shows demand avoidant traits and you are in need of a new approach - this episode is a must-listen!To find out more about Dr Naomi Fisher’s work, visit https://naomicfisher.substack.com/ or https://naomifisher.co.uk/Or to order her latest book, head to: https://www.amazon.co.uk/When-Naughty-Makes-Things-Worse/dp/1472148681

What challenges do Black parents of neurodivergent children face in the education system? And what can we do about it? In this episode of All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire is joined by Marsha Martin - a former behavioural therapist, neurodiversity awareness consultant and the founder of Black SEN Mamas, a charitable organisation supporting Black mothers of children with special educational needs and disabilities. As a neurodivergent woman herself and the mum of three children, two of which have diagnosed ADHD and autism, Marsha created Black SEN mamas to provide a space of psychological safety for mothers navigating both the challenges of parenting and the complexities of the SEN system. In this episode Marsha sheds light on the additional prejudices and the barriers that she faces as a “minority within a minority”, to help raise awareness of ADHD and the experiences of mothers in the Black community. Marsha describes some of the systemic and cultural barriers, such as the scarcity of Black teachers and implicit biases in the education system. For example, due to the lack of understanding about neurodivergence in Black communities - both within schools and SEN services - children’s behaviour can often be misinterpreted as defiance, disruption or laziness, rather than communication of their needs. Marsha also emphasises the importance of community support, advocacy, and cultural competency training for teachers. She shares some examples of her own experience as a parent to neurodivergent children, including the early signs and behaviours that led to the diagnosis of ADHD in her children, and why those diagnoses took a long time to reach. She also describes some of the ongoing battles she has faced to access the appropriate support for her children and the impact of systemic barriers on their development and wellbeing.  Despite the challenges, Marsha shares a message of hope for Black parents of children with ADHD, highlighting the importance of finding community support and the positive impact of leaning on others who understand the challenges of raising neurodivergent children. She also shares the incredible impact of her advocacy work both with Black SEN Mamas and from a personal perspective on her family. Finally, Marsha encourages other Black parents to seek community support and fiercely advocate for their children. To find out more about Marsha and her work, head to: https://blacksenmamas.com/

How can exercise positively impact ADHD symptoms in children? In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD Podcast, Claire meets with Dr Shu-Shih (Stone) Hsieh to discuss ADHD and exercise. Dr Stone is a senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology at Kingston University. Stone's ActiGamer research at BREAD Lab focuses on the effects of exercise on cognition and ADHD symptoms in school aged-children. Dr Stone Hseih kicks off with some insights into the many wide-ranging benefits of exercise for children with ADHD, including improvements in connection, attention and multitasking, alongside a reduction anxiety, stress and depressive symptoms. He and Claire also discuss the brain mechanisms involved in the positive effects of exercise and the differences between traditional forms of exercise vs multi-component exercise. Due to constant changes in the environment, multi-component exercise - such as such as football, tennis or basketball - can be more beneficial for children with ADHD, due to the compound effects on fitness, attention, and multitasking.  To ensure they consistently engage and experience the longer-term benefits, Dr Stone highlights the importance of diversifying exercise choices for children with ADHD and ensuring they find activities they enjoy. He also shares some fascinating results from studies into ADHD and exercise, for example using an EEG to study brain activity during and after exercise in children with ADHD. His aim is to understand whether exercise could be offered as a complementary treatment strategy for children with ADHD. Finally Dr Stone introduces the exciting new potential of "exergaming", which combines video games with physical activity, showing promising results in improving attention and fitness. To find out more about Dr Stone and his work, head to:  Kingston University - Dr Stone Hsieh BREAD Lab Kingston Healthy body—Healthy mind? Does exercise benefit people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder? By Dr Stone Hsieh The effects of acute aerobic exercise on inhibitory control and resting state heart rate variability in children with ADHD. By Dr Stone Hseih. Dr Stone also has an ongoing study on the effects of physical activity and EEG on Executive Function children with ADHD. If you’re interested in participating, you can sign up here 

Will ADHD medication help my child, or dull their spark? In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire is joined by Professor Samuele Cortese for a comprehensive exploration of ADHD medications and how they work, so that parents listening can make informed decisions for themselves and their children. Professor Samuele Cortese, MD, PhD is currently Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Southampton and Honorary Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatry for Solent NHS Trust. Professor Cortese’s main research interests are in neurodevelopmental disorders, with a focus on ADHD. Professor Samuele Cortese begins by explaining the different types and mechanisms of ADHD medications, which are broadly divided into stimulants (e.g. methylphenidate) and non-stimulants (e.g. atomoxetine). Whilst both types of medication affect neurotransmitters like dopamine and noradrenaline in the brain, they operate differently. Many parents worry about dulling their child’s spark if they go down the medication route, so Professor Samuele also shares some insight into which medications are more effective and why. In his research, he shares that 70-80% of children respond well to stimulants, while non-stimulants may help the remaining 20-30%. He also describes how medication can actually be personalised to the child, not only by type but also by release formation e.g. slow release throughout the day. Interestingly, only 20-22% of children continue treatment after a year, so Professor Samuele also explains what challenges children and parents can face when it comes to adhering to a medication routine. He also explains some potential common side effects and how they can best be managed. Claire and Professor Samuele also touch on the long-term effects of medication - with long-term studies showing benefits such as a reduction in mortality rate and improved quality of life. Overall Claire and Professor Samuele stress what a deeply personal choice medication is, and through this episode aim to support parents and their children to make the right decision for them. This epsiode is a must-listen for parents weighing up the pros and cons of medication for their child with ADHD.

What happens when you throw out the parenting rule book? In this episode of the All Aboard ADHD podcast, Claire is joined by parent guest Mark Allen - a former stand-up comedian who juggles working in IT, with being a writer, podcaster, and dad to three neurodivergent children, who have a combination of diagnoses including ADHD, Autism and PDA.  Mark describes himself as an “undiagnosed neurotypical”, who navigates the competing needs of his family with humour and insight, which he channels into his podcast Neuroshambles, where he chats with guests about the lighter side of parenting neurodivergent children, including an episode with Claire. Mark kicks off by describing how differently ADHD presents in his children, with Jay's early signs of ADHD manifesting as a need to move constantly, whereas Otto’s distractibility and inattentiveness provide challenges in terms of planning daily activities. Mark also shares some insight into how difficult it is to distinguish between ADHD and autism in his children, and the different pathways their family took to get diagnoses for their children. Mark speaks of the relief and understanding that came with the diagnoses, allowing them to better understand and support their children. He also shares some wonderful examples of how accommodations such as movement breaks and sensory-seeking activities support his children to learn and regulate themselves. Claire and Mark also discuss the positive impact of allowing children to be themselves and how it can boost their self-esteem. In fact, Mark advises other parents to ditch the parenting rulebook altogether, along with their expectations of neurotypical children. He shares his own experience of how changing their approach to meal times has reduced stress and increased happiness for their family. He also shares a lovely take on his children's unique character and energy, particularly their strong opinions and eccentricity - fedoras and all! This is a must-listen for any parent navigating the day-to-day challenges of raising neurodivergent children, particularly the dads! The Journey into S.E.N.D Fatherhood: Fathers Beyond Limits book: https://amzn.eu/d/iT1fOTM?sfnsn=scwspwa Neuroshambles Podcast (Claire’s episode): https://open.spotify.com/episode/3JTYK9U0KUGSb2u18lKk6f?si=N2x-hFQaQEGI06k7SLAJfA

What does burnout look like in ADHD children and teenagers? In this episode of All Aboard ADHD, Claire is joined by Dr Samantha Hiew to discuss the signs, causes, and prevention of ADHD burnout in children and teenagers. Sam - a highly sought-after neurodiversity keynote speaker and trainer - founded ADHD girls at the age of 40, after a decade of existential anxiety living with undiagnosed ADHD. Sam seeks to humanise neurodiversity, bridging the empathy gap between those who are neurodivergent and neurotypical to foster a sense of connection, understanding, and belonging Claire and Sam begin by discussing what causes burnout: typically various sources of long-term stress, sensory overload, and social and academic pressures. Sam also shares some insight into Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) and how this can play a part in triggering burnout. They then go on to discuss the symptoms parents can look out for in their children, for example, emotional challenges, sleep issues, and defiant behavior.  Understanding and recognising burnout in our ADHD children and teenagers is key to prevention, so Sam shares some great examples of how we as parents can work to better support our kids to avoid burnout. For instance, creating supportive routines, ensuring the right kind of nutrition, and supporting our children's self-esteem. For children and teenagers already experiencing burnout, Sam emphasises how crucial rest and self-care are as tools. Sam also highlights the importance of self-compassion and the need for a holistic approach, including school adjustments and support from a trusted adult. She also sheds light on the significance of recognising and addressing burnout early, to ensure we support our children to avoid long-term mental and physical health issues. Finally, Sam encourages parents to seek support via community and the right resources, so that they feel less alone in their journey - of course, that is the whole ethos of this podcast! This episode is a must-listen for parents of children and teenagers with ADHD who want to get ahead of burnout and learn practical strategies to support their kids. Links to articles mentioned in the episode: ADDitude article - https://www.additudemag.com/grow-up-already-why-it-takes-so-long-to-mature/  ADHD Embrace - https://adhdembrace.org/teaching-pupils-with-adhd//1000  To find out more about Samantha and her work, head to: https://samanthahiew.com/