School Psych Podcast: Parenting Tips and Teacher Strategies for Supporting Neurodiverse Learners

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Just a quick episode wishing you an awesome summer, in which you are kind to yourself and remember.... YOU ARE HUMAN. 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com, direct message me on Instragram @SchoolPsychPodcast, or click "Send Us a Text" in this episode description.

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This episode builds off of one of last week's tips for "what all teachers need to do this summer." One of the suggestions was pausing to reflect what went well this year that you want to take into next school year, and what you need to let go of. So, THIS episode is my own reflections about exactly that. Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or a school clinician, I bet some of my reflections will feel relatable. 

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This episode is for teachers and any of us working in schools (clinicians, admin, educational assistants, all y'all!) By summer break, our nervous system is tapped out.. How do we ensure summer is the proper reset that we need before we come back in the fall? In this episode I list the top 5 activities (or lack thereof) that educators need to focus on this summer. We deserve it! 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com, direct message me on I...

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In this interview episode, Bryan Stanton (chair of "Teaching While Queer," a not-for-profit organization) shares the importance of allyship even when it feels scary or uncomfortable. "But how can I be an ally?," you ask?! Listen as Bryan shares the importance of visual signals, asking about pronouns, checking in on queer students, creating space for queer educators, preserving accurate history (i.e., NOT banning books), listening to understand, and attending professional development focused on how to be an ally to queer educators and how to nurture LGBTQ students.

Speaking of professional...

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I've shared some of these with you before and I'll share them again and again! There are certain resources I find myself recommending over and over to families and school teams of neurodivergent learners... and for good reason. It's time to dedicate an episode to listing these top 5 resources and to talk about why I love them for our neuro-spicy kiddos!

1. Explainingbrains.com with Dr. Liz Angoff

2. Understood.org

3. The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child's Developing Mind, by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne...

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Ah the dreaded "summer slide," also known as "summer learning loss" or "academic regression". Have no fear parents! There are lots of ways we can help our kids maintain some of the skills they worked so hard to develop this school year! These 7 tips should provide you with some ideas - from creating a daily "learning routine" that works for YOUR family,  to incorporating academic skills into "field trips." Let me know which tip is your favourite! 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me...

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Did you know that school psychologists attend IEP (Individual Education Plan) Meetings with families and school teams? This episode covers what a typical day looks like for a school psychologist during testing season. I also share what my favourite IEP meeting process looks like (spoiler alert: It's not just reading a document verbatim to a parent).

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com, direct message me on Instragram @SchoolPsychPodcast, or click "Send Us a Text" in this episode description.<...

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Have you ever wondered what a testing day looks like for a school psychologist? Then this episode is for you! I run through a typical testing day, and also discuss the steps that need to have been completed beforehand (weeks or days in advance) to make this day go smoothly. 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com, direct message me on Instragram @SchoolPsychPodcast, or click "Send Us a Text" in this episode description.

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Have you ever wondered what a school psychologist does with their time? Why does it feel like they're everywhere at once or simultaneously nowhere to be found? Hopping in and out, but flying into the building within minutes when a crisis occurs. The role of a school psych can vary widely, depending on the situation. I'm not just talking from country to country, province to province, or state to state. The role of a school psych at one school could look completely different from the school down the street.

In this...

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How do we give our kids the tools for identifying, expressing, and managing emotions? How do we teach our kids social skills and conflict resolution? Social-emotional learning (SEL) programs are a way we can proactively help our kids thrive in "the real world." If you're a teacher, school clinician, or homeschool parent, this episode is for you! Let's dive into  3 evidence-based SEL "programs" I keep coming back to over and over again and why (and no, they have not sponsored this episode):

1. Kimochis (https://www.kimochis.com/)

2. We Thinkers! (h...

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In this interview with Dr. Emily Fisher, we talk A LOT about how to support LGBTQ+ children in our families, schools, and communities. We cover some definitions, such as what is sexual orientation and gender identity, as well as some of the common inclusive acronyms used by and for our queer and questioning youth (e.g., 2SLGBTQIA+, GSM, SOGI, SOGD, GSA). We also discuss how to respond when young people "come out" to us, how to proactively discuss gender identity and sexual orientation, and how to promote inclusion. Dr. Fisher shares the number...

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Finally an episode that is relevant for literally ANY adult supporting kids in any capacity! Teachers, parents, clinicians, doctors, principals, educational assistants, daycare providers, this one is for all of us! This episode covers several descriptors often used to describe kids and reframes them using more positive, solution-focused language. This is about focusing on our kids' strengths, rather than assuming these traits are shortcomings.

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com, direct message me on Instragram @SchoolPsychPodcast, or click "...

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Is academic success the key to a thriving adulthood? In this episode, I'm sharing a hot take that might challenge some perspectives - academic skills, while important, aren't the be all end all when it comes to our growing kids. 

From kindness and communication to critical thinking and executive functioning, these skills shape who our kids become as they develop into adults. And no, this teaching isn't just on schools or just on parents - it's a shared effort. 

Let's rethink what success really means and how we can se...

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Whether you're a parent, teacher, or school clinician, these tips can transform your conversations and strengthen your connection with the kids in your life. If you want to support your kid - whether they're toddlers, teens, or somewhere in between, there's one skill that makes all the difference: Active Listening. When kids feel truly heard, they're more likely to open up, trust you, and accept guidance or reassurance. In this episode, we dive into six simple, practical strategies for listening in a way that helps kids feel safe, valued, and understood. 

A...

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Are you a school clinician or consultant who struggles to manage your time? In this episode, we dive into practical strategies for school clinicians to keep an organized schedule and maintain focus. For example, a monthly "brain dump," colour-coding your calendar by school,  and being strategic about when your are  checking and responding to your emails (spoiler alert: it's not "all day").

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com, direct message me on Instragram @SchoolPsychPodcast, or click "Send Us a...

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In this episode, we dive into practical strategies for teachers (and other school staff) to establish clear and respectful boundaries in their professional lives. For example, being direct and concise. If you have not been in the practice of setting boundaries, take baby steps. Even then, you may experience pushback. Listen to this episode to hear some tips on how to address that resistance.

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com, direct message me on Instragram or Threads @SchoolPsychPodcast...

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Are you a teacher or school clinician who struggles to find balance? Then this episode is for you. We explore the challenges educators face in setting boundaries and identify key areas where these boundaries are important. We discuss the internal and external pressures that make boundary-setting difficult and provide practical examples of where limits can be beneficial, including communication with parents, work-life balance, student interactions, and collaborations with colleagues and administrators. By understanding these aspects, educators can take the first step in creating a sustainable and fulfilling teaching (or clinician) experience. 

I...

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Being a strong advocate for your child can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone - or perfectly! In this episode, we're diving into ten key traits that help parents become effective advocates for their children. From persistence, to communication, to "sense of humour," these qualities can help you navigate school team meetings, appointments, and support services with purpose. 

If you've ever wondered, "Am I doing enough?" or felt unsure about how to speak up for your child, this episode will give you plenty of encouragement, practical tips, a...

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Dyslexia is one of the most common learning differences, yet it's wildly misunderstood. In this episode, we're busting five of the biggest myths about dyslexia - including the misconception that it's not just about reversing letters, that kids can "outgrow" it, and that schools will automatically catch it. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or someone who works with kids, this episode will give you some facts you need to better understand struggling readers. 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.c...

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We hear about executive functions a lot - but what does it really look like in everyday life? In this episode, we're breaking down each core executive function skill, such as working memory, time management, emotional regulation, and more. Let's explore how challenges in these areas show up for kids of all ages, from the middle school student constantly losing their homework to the high school student who procrastinates on every big project. Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or just curious about how to better support kids' learning and development, this episode...

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Executive function skills are the foundation for success in school and beyond - helping kids manage their time, stay organized, regulate emotions, and adapt to new situations. But what happens when these skills don't come naturally? In this episode, we break down what executive function is, as well as how parents and teachers can support kids in building these critical skills. 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com, direct message me on Instragram @SchoolPsychPodcast, or click "Send Us a T...

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In this interview with licensed educational psychologist Dr. Christa Cusimano, we talk about the benefit of approaching assessment through a neuropsychological lens. Spoiler alert - it can lead to better intervention. We also discuss some challenges of the public education system. We cover LOTS more topics, such as the importance of clearly communicating a diagnosis after assessment (no matter what age), our thoughts on the increase in ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) diagnosis, differences between assessing children and assessing adults, teasing apart ADHD from other mental health challenges, and the power in finding a...

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Are you a parent, teacher, or educational assistant of young kids? Have you gone through "episodes" of BIG feelings and behaviors and wondered, "What the heck is going on for this little person?" If so, this episode is for you! We cover 6 possible reasons your child (or a student) is having a tough time.

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please click "Send Us a Text," email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com, or direct message me on IG @schoolpsychpodcast

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Are you a parent or teacher of young kids who feels exasperated by constant "No! Don't want to! Not doing it"? If so, this episode is for you! First, I share 5 proactive strategies for how to set ourselves and our kids or students up for success when moving through tasks and routines. Then, we discuss how to respond when you are using those strategies, but you still hear "No!" Keep your head up, you're doing a great job! 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please c...

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In this interview with Jen Fisher,  we discuss all the domains a school-based Occupational Therapist can help with. Spoiler alert - it's not just toileting and fine motor skills! Jen and I talk about everything from the primary role of an OT in any setting, to supporting students with additional needs, to suggestions for anyone interested in pursuing occupational therapy as a career. Thank you Jen Fisher, for sharing about your work in schools. Enjoy!

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at s...

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This week we cover my top 5 new year's resolutions for those of us working in Education - school clinicians, teachers, educational assistants, administrators, and other school staff.  How do we thrive through the next 6 months, not just survive? Which of these resolutions will resonate with you? 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover,  please click "Send us a text". You can also DM me on Instagram (@schoolpsychpodcast), or email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com 

If you like the podcast or find it helpful, please foll...

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This week is a quick message to caregivers as we navigate the highs and lows of holidays. All the best, and talk to you next year! 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover,  please click "Send us a text". You can also DM me on Instagram (@schoolpsychpodcast), or email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com 

If you like the podcast or find it helpful, please follow, rate, or review. AND share it with friends and family, so others can find it! Another way to help is...

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Have you ever wondered when NOT to pursue a psycho-educational assessment? There are certain referrals we might describe as “red lights," which means we likely would not consider proceeding with the assessment. If you haven’t already, I recommend you listen to parts 1 and 2 of this 3-part series first to better understand “green light” and "yellow light" psych assessment referrals. 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover,  please click "Send us a text". You can also DM me on Instagram (@schoolpsychpodcast), or email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com ...

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Have you ever wondered when to pursue a psycho-educational assessment? There are certain referrals for psych assessments we might describe as “yellow lights.” Sometimes you would go ahead with the assessment, and at other times you would not. Clear as mud, right? If you haven’t already, I recommend you listen to part 1 of this series first to better understand “green light” psych assessment referrals. 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover,  please click "Send us a text". You can also DM me on Instagram (@schoolpsychpodcast), or email me...

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Have you ever wondered when to pursue a psycho-educational assessment? Or maybe you want to know which types of referrals tend to get green-lit for assessments in the school system? Then this episode is for you! Listen to parts 2 and 3 to learn about "yellow light" and "red light" assessment referrals.

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover,  please click "Send us a text". You can also DM me on Instagram (@schoolpsychpodcast), or email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com 

If you like the podcast or fi...

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Have you ever wondered what a psycho-educational assessment actually entails? Have you or your child been referred for one and you're on the fence about whether to go for it? Are you a teacher with students on the psych assessment list, and you're wondering what this whole process entails? Then this episode is for you! 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover,  please click "Send us a text". You can also DM me on Instagram (@schoolpsychpodcast), or email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com 

If you...

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For this week's episode, we've got something a little different. I discuss 10 lies (or myths) I used to believe when I was a brand new school psychologist. This was a fun one to record - I hope you enjoy it!

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover,  please click "Send us a text". You can also DM me on Instagram (@schoolpsychpodcast), or email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com 

If you like the podcast or find it helpful, please follow, rate, or review. AND share it...

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Are you a classroom teacher supporting students with Adapted Education Plans? Are you wanting to learn more about accommodations for students with diverse learning needs? Are you a parent of a child who might benefit from these strategies as a part of their learning plan? Then this episode is for you! I recommend you listen to episode 16 (part 1) before listening to this episode (part 2). 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover,  please click "Send us a text". You can also DM me on Instagram (@schoolpsychpodcast), or em...

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Are you a classroom teacher supporting students with Adapted Education Plans? Are you wanting to learn more about accommodations for students with diverse learning needs? Are you a parent of a child who might benefit from these strategies as a part of their learning plan? Then this episode is for you! 

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover,  please click "Send us a text". You can also DM me on Instagram (@schoolpsychpodcast), or email me at schoolpsychpodcast@gmail.com 

If you like the podcast or...

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Is your child a struggling reader? Do you teach students with Dyslexia? Then this episode is for you! Also, if you want more information about Dyslexia, go back and listen to episode 9: Deep Dive on Specific Learning Disorder. 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

1. Institute for Multi-Sensory Education (imse.com) 
2. Fish in A Tree (book by Linda Mullaly Hunt)
3. Aaron Slater, Illustrator (Picture Book by Andrea Beaty)
4. If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It (Picture Book by Colleen Nelson and Kathie MacIsaac)
5. See It, Dr...

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This episode focuses on recommendations for managing ADHD. If you want more information about what ADHD is, listen to Episode #13, entitled "Deep Dive on ADHD." If you're ready to dive into some helpful tips and resources, enjoy the current episode!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

1. The Smart But Scattered Series, by Peg Dawson and Richard Guare
3. Additude (additudemag.com)
4. Understood.org
5. The Questioneers Picture Book Series, by Andrea Beaty
6. Thriving with ADHD Workbook for Kids: 60 Fun Activities to Help Children Self-Regulate, Focus, and Succeed, by...

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This episode discusses all things Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). We talk about executive (dys)functions, the ADHD diagnostic criteria, associated characteristics, prevalence rates, and the impact of living with ADHD. Enjoy!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

1. Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM - 5th ed., text rev.)
2. Dr. Liz Angoff's website (explainingbrains.com)

Research Studies mentioned in this episode:

1. Espinet SD, Graziosi G, Toplak ME, Hesson J, Minhas P. A Review of Canadian Diagnosed ADHD Prevalence and Incidence...

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In this episode I briefly discuss short and long term effects of burnout. Then I guide you through a quick self-care exercise. This will hopefully be helpful during a busy holiday season, but it's also something you can come back to any time of the year! A great episode for caregivers, students, and so many of you caring folks in education... a friendly reminder to hit pause and take a few minutes for yourself!

If you have any questions or topics you want me to cover, please email me at schoolpsychpodcast...

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This episode discusses co-regulation strategies that can be helpful in supporting children and young people through moments of escalation, according to the "Low Arousal" approach. Episode 11 follows naturally from episode 10, which was about the brain's alarm system (i.e., the Fight, Flight or Freeze response).  I hope by the end of these 2 episodes, we are able to reframe our understanding of "challenging behaviour." All behaviour is communication, and "challenging behaviour" is what happens when a person is in distress and they don't (yet) have other coping options. 

For more information about th...

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This episode discusses the brain's alarm system - the Fight, Flight, and Freeze response. We also cover what's going on in the brain when we've "flipped our lid." This is a great episode to learn about your own brain, but also to build some language and visuals for how to teach children about their own Fight, Flight, and Freeze responses. Lastly, we talk about how the experience of trauma impacts the brain's alarm system and what that might look like in the long-term. Enjoy!

Resources mentioned in this episode:
1. "The...