In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

If you think your child is struggling at school, what’s the best way to make sure they’re getting the support they need? Who should you talk to first? Should you call a meeting, send an email, or do something else?In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome Julian Saavedra. Julian is an assistant principal in Philadelphia and the host of another Understood podcast, The Opportunity Gap.Julian shares tips and strategies about what to do if your child needs more — or different — support in the classroom. He also provides a road map of where to start advocating for your child, plus how to work as a team with your child’s teachers and school.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Michelle Carter is an athlete and businessperson. She was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia as a young child. With her parents’ support, she discovered her talents in track and field, going on to compete in three Olympic Games: in 2008, 2012, and 2016. Michelle won gold in 2016. Now she runs You Throw Girl, a camp that helps girls build confidence. Michelle believes that for kids who are struggling with a learning or thinking difference, sports can be a big help. “It gives them a moment to just get that energy out, let their brains be free while they’re making their bodies work,” she says. In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Michelle about the challenges she faced in and out of school. They also learn about her experiences as a world-class athlete and entrepreneur. Michelle shares tips for kids to build their confidence. She also offers advice to help parents and families of kids with learning and thinking differences.   Related resources:How to get your child involved in sportsVideo: Michelle Carter wins Olympic gold with dyslexia and ADHDPodcast: Understood Explains on evaluations for special educationRead: All about careers for kids who learn and think differently  To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

From the colors of the classroom to the noises of the playground, school can be overwhelming for kids with sensory processing challenges. One author has turned these experiences into a new picture book. The book aims to help kids who have trouble processing sensory information. In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Lindsey Rowe Parker, author of Wiggles, Stomps and Squeezes: Calming My Jitters at School. It’s the second in a series of picture books about sensory differences for kids.Lindsey was a child with sensory differences. And now she’s a parent to a daughter with autism and a son who is neurodivergent. Lindsey begins by reading a section of the book. Then she talks about the importance of representation in children’s books. She also shares some of the sensory challenges she faced as a kid, and other real-life stories she included in the book.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Language disorders can lead to many questions, both in the classroom and elsewhere. How will the school handle it? What can you do to help at home? And what if you’re not even sure if a language disorder is what your child is struggling with?In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Kelli Johnson, a Minneapolis-based educational speech-language pathologist who is also a writer and expert reviewer at Understood.  Kelli explains what her job is all about, and what it means to have a language disorder. She also talks about making her work with students fun while helping them navigate this learning and thinking difference.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Getting diagnosed with a learning and thinking difference can be a big relief for many kids. But for some kids, the news can lead to many questions and worries. They may not want to talk about their diagnosis at all. And sometimes, the way kids respond to their diagnosis changes over time.In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome Preetika Mukherjee, a pediatric neuropsychologist. Dr. Mukherjee offers suggestions for ways to talk with your child after a diagnosis. Tune in to get her advice on making these tough conversations easier.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

When siblings have different needs, what’s a parent to do?  In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Dr. Ari Tuckman, a psychologist who works with families and couples. He shares tips for finding balance in parenting kids when one has a learning or thinking difference. And he talks about the importance of the idea that “fair doesn’t always mean equal.”This is part two of a two-part series. In part one, we talked to Becca, a mom of two raising one child with ADHD and one without.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Sibling dynamics are challenging for all families. But when one sibling has a learning and thinking difference and the other one doesn’t, things can be even tougher.  In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Becca. She’s a mom of two kids, one with ADHD and one without. Becca shares how she’s finding balance in parenting kids with different needs. And how her kids interact with one another.This is part one of a two-part series. In the next episode, we’ll get tips on managing sibling dynamics from psychologist Dr. Ari Tuckman.  To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

If your child is struggling at school or at home, and you think it may be related to ADHD or a learning difference, communication is key. Talking with your child’s pediatrician can be a first step to getting support. But sometimes it’s hard to know what to say to your child’s doctor.  In this episode of In It, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome behavioral pediatrician Dr. Nerissa Bauer. Dr. Bauer offers tips and strategies for talking with your child’s pediatrician about ADHD, anxiety, and more. Tune in to get her advice on questions to ask, materials to bring, and how to make the most of your appointment.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood. We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Tantrums and meltdowns are challenges all parents face. But for families of kids who learn and think differently, they can be even more of a struggle.In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome back Dr. Andrew Kahn, the host of the first season of Understood’s What Now? A Parent’s Guide to Tantrums and Meltdowns. Tune in to get his expert advice on dealing with tantrums and meltdowns. Learn how practicing strategies ahead of time can help you manage outbursts in the moment. And find out what calming techniques can help.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Most parents start their parenting journey with ideas of what it will be like, and what their kids will be like. But what happens when your expectations don’t match reality? How do things change when you find out your child has a learning or thinking difference?  In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome Suzie Glassman, a writer and mom of two kids. Suzie shares how her parenting changed after her daughter was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia.  Find out how she parents to meet the needs of the kids she has, rather than the kids she thought she’d have. Learn how she celebrates her kids for who they are, and how she’s letting go of parenting shame.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Puberty can be a challenging time for kids and their families. But what about if your child going through puberty has ADHD? In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek take a deep dive into puberty and ADHD. First, they hear from three parents of teens with ADHD to find out what it’s like to be “in it.”Then, they welcome returning guest Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a clinical psychologist and Understood expert. Listen in as he explains how ADHD and puberty can affect each other.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

From the talk-to-text feature on a phone to a lap desk, many people use assistive technology (AT) every day. For kids who learn and think differently, assistive tech can make learning easier. But how do you know if it’s something your child needs?  In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome returning guest Shira Moskovitz. Shira, a special education teacher and technology specialist, shares some of the ways assistive tech can help. Tune in to learn about the different types of AT, how they work, and how to figure out if they’re right for your child.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

While the holiday season can be exciting, it can also stimulate the senses in a way that makes it less fun for some kids. For kids with sensory processing challenges, the holidays can be overwhelming.In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome returning guest Keri Wilmot. Keri, a pediatric occupational therapist, shares some of the ways the holidays can bring on sensory overload. From costumes to new foods and more, Keri has strategies to help you and your child enjoy the holidays.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Bonus episode! Introducing Understood’s newest podcast: What Now? A Parent’s Guide. Tune in for a peek at Season 1, which is all about tantrums and meltdowns. Listen to host Dr. Andrew Kahn as he shares practical tips on how to project calm, even when you don’t feel it.  Get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes from What Now? A Parent’s Guide at u.org/podcasts.  We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.  Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Why do some kids bully others? And why do some kids seem to be targets of bullying, time and time again?  In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with parenting coach Caroline Maguire, author of Why Will No One Play with Me?: The Play Better Plan to Help Children of All Ages Make Friends and Thrive. She specializes in social-emotional learning and raising kids with ADHD.  Tune in to learn about both sides of bullying, and what families can do to help. Plus, hear Caroline share her own story of being bullied, and how that experience shapes her work.  To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood.We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Why do kids sometimes refuse to go to school? And what can families do about it, both in the moment and to help avoid it in the future?In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek hear from Erin, a returning guest whose family has struggled with school refusal challenges for years.  The hosts also talk with psychologist and Understood expert Dr. Andrew Kahn, who shares some of the reasons that could be behind a child’s school refusal. He also offers tips and strategies for turning the situation around. To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood. We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

For many families, the new school year brings a real mixed bag of emotions. There’s the excitement of a fresh start combined with jitters about all of the unknowns. For families of kids who learn and think differently, there may be IEPs or 504 plans, and new teachers to connect with about all these things. It’s a lot to think about — and to navigate.In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with returning guest DeJunne’ Clark Jackson, an education consultant and parent advocate. She’s also a mom of two kids, one with an IEP. Tune in for back-to-school strategies that have worked well for DeJunne’ and her family. Find out how she sets goals with both of her kids, keeping in mind their strengths and challenges.To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood. We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. 

Join us for Season 5 of In It, a podcast about the ins and outs — and ups and downs — of supporting kids who learn and think differently. Hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek will continue to bring stories, tips, and advice from families and experts. They’ll cover topics from ADHD and puberty to helpful tech for kids. Season 5 starts Thursday, September 7. Subscribe now!  We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.  Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

Bonus episode! Learn five common myths about special education that can keep kids of color from getting the support they deserve. In this episode from Understood’s The Opportunity Gap, host Julian Saavedra talks with Christina Gutierrez, a former educator and the mom of a child with an IEP. Find out which of the five myths “gets under her skin” the most — and which one crept into her own thinking when her son was struggling.Get a transcript of this show and check out more episodes from The Opportunity Gap and more episodes from In It. We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.  Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about In It and all our podcasts at understood.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. 

Bonus episode! This time on In It, learn about ADHD and eating disorders in this episode from Understood’s ADHD Aha! podcast. Host Laura Key talks with Dr. Roberto Olivardia about why ADHD and binge-eating disorder (BED) often co-occur. Learn how ADHD symptoms like impulsivity play a role in disordered eating. Plus, find out about treatment options and what to do if you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder and needs support.  Get a transcript of this show and check out more ADHD Aha! episodes at u.org/ADHDaha.  We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org.  Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about ADHD Aha! and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.   Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.