Neurodiversity Podcast

• Dyscalculia & Math: A Teacher's and Parent's Guide

  On this episode, Emily Kircher-Morris and Dr. Daniel Ansari discuss the complexities of math education, including the anxiety it can cause in students, the challenges of teaching methods, and the importance of understanding learning difficulties like dyscalculia. They talk about the importance of explicit instruction in math, the role of neuroscience in understanding how children learn math, and the significance of working memory and attention in math learning. Educators and parents will also get suggestions for practical strategies that will help them support students struggling with math. TAKEAWAYS Math anxiety affects both children and adults. Explicit instruction is crucial for teaching math. Dyscalculia is often misunderstood and underrecognized. Teaching methods should align with children's developmental levels. Neuroscience reveals links between spatial and numerical processing. Math anxiety does not equate to a lack of ability. Timed practice should be engaging, not competitive. Working memory plays a significant role in math learning. Multisensory approaches can enhance math instruction. Parents should seek community and resources for support. Assisting Students Struggling with Mathematics from the Institute of Education Sciences The Think Inclusive Podcast episode Emily talked about - Saving ED: Why the U.S. Department of Education is Essential for Students with Disabilities This episode is sponsored by The Council for Exceptional Children, getting ready for their Convention & Expo in Baltimore, March 12-15th. Go to cecconvention.org to register! Dr. Daniel Ansari is a Professor and Canada Research Chair in Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience & Learning at Western University. He leads the Numerical Cognition Laboratory, where his research focuses on how children develop numerical and mathematical skills, as well as the cognitive factors contributing to difficulties in learning mathematics. Dr. Ansari and his team are dedicated to bridging the Science of Learning with K-12 education, working to translate research findings into classroom practice. He has authored over 150 peer-reviewed research articles and is a Fellow of the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR), recognized for his contributions to the field of developmental cognitive neuroscience. BACKGROUND READING The Numerical Cognition Laboratory The Neurodiversity Podcast is available on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you can also join our private Facebook group.

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• What it Takes to Connect With Today's Students

  Effective teaching involves more than just what happens formally in the classroom, and on this episode, Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes educator and author Adam Meyersieck to talk about it. They discuss the need for engaging teaching methods that connect with students emotionally and socially. They discuss collaboration between parents and educators to support neurodivergent learners, and the significance of strengths-based approaches in teaching. They cover sustainability of the teaching profession, the use of multiple communication modalities, and managing visual clutter to enhance learning environments. TAKEAWAYS Teaching should focus on the process, not just the end result. Collaboration between parents and educators enhances student support. Strengths-based assessments can bridge the gap between home and school. Visual aids can clarify expectations for neurodiverse students. Processing time is crucial for student understanding. Simplicity in instructions aids neurodivergent learners. Sustainable teaching practices lead to better educator retention. Explicit instruction benefits all learners, not just neurodivergent ones. Engaging multiple modalities helps all students retain information better. Providing written instructions fosters independence in learners. Managing visual clutter reduces distractions and enhances focus. Get the newsletter and keep up-to-date about the Emily and Amanda's new book, Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted and Supported, and the new podcast, Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools. This episode is sponsored by The Council for Exceptional Children, getting ready for their Convention & Expo in Baltimore, March 12-15th. Go to cecconvention.org to register! Adam Meyersieck is a school district leader, consultant at Legacy Education Group, and educator with nearly two decades of experience in special and inclusive education, professional learning, and neurodiversity teaching strategy. He has trained thousands of educators and school leaders in the US and Great Britain, helping them create inclusive, strength-based learning environments that truly support neurodiverse students. He is also the author of Universal Best Practices for All Learners: Discover Your Teaching Strengths, a book designed to help educators leverage their strengths and make teaching more sustainable while meeting the needs of all learners. Adam is passionate about helping school leaders and teachers better connect with their students, ensuring that education is both effective and equitable. BACKGROUND READING Adam’s website Facebook LinkedIn The Neurodiversity Podcast is on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you’re invited to join our Facebook Group.

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  39:27
• Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria with Dr. Bill Dodson (Part 2)

  In the second of our powerful two-part conversation, Emily Kircher-Morris and Dr. William Dodson discuss the complexities of ADHD, emotional dysregulation and its subset, and Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). He explains how RSD can manifest in ADHDers, the impact of childhood experiences, and the importance of understanding and treating these conditions. There is a need for updated diagnostic criteria and effective treatment strategies, including medication and supportive environments. They dig into the complexities of ADHD, including management strategies, and the importance of understanding the overlap between social anxiety and mood disorders. TAKEAWAYS Emotional dysregulation is often overlooked in ADHD diagnoses. RSD is a specific condition affecting many with ADHD. The emotional pain from RSD can be both emotional and physical, and can lead to significant life impairments. Childhood experiences can exacerbate RSD but are not the sole cause. Medication can be effective in managing emotional dysregulation. Understanding RSD is essential for clinicians working with ADHD patients. Preventative strategies are key in managing RSD episodes. Sleep, nutrition, structure, and routine play vital roles in emotional regulation. Social anxiety and rejection sensitivity can coexist but are distinct. The research project Emily mentions in her closing thoughts. The sign-up window is open for a limited time, for the Neurodiversity University Educator Hub! Join a community of like-minded teachers, administrators, and advocates who are passionate about supporting neurodivergent kids. It's a welcoming space to share ideas that will help make your classrooms and school districts better places for all students. The Educator Hub is available via an app for your smartphone, or online through a browser. Click and join us. Dr. Bill Dodson is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has specialized in adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder for the last 27 years. In recognition of his clinical contributions to the field of ADHD he was named a Life Fellow of the APA in 2012. He was the 2006 recipient of the national Maxwell J. Schleifer Award for Distinguished Service to Persons with Disabilities. His contributions to the field of ADHD include: The only currently available methodology for the fine-tuning of ADHD medications. The concept of Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria and its treatment with medications. The first non-behavioral theory of what ADHD is and how it can be treated successfully with an emphasis on what goes right rather than what goes wrong. Dr. Dodson has a book for clinicians, patients, and parents on the practice of ADHD medicine coming out at the end of 2025. BACKGROUND READING Bill Dodson’s website Dr Dodson’s contributions to ADDitude magazine

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  30:37
• Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria with Dr. Bill Dodson (Part 1)

  In part one of a two-part conversation, Emily Kircher-Morris and Dr. William Dodson discuss the complexities of ADHD, emotional dysregulation and its subset, and Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). He explains how RSD can manifest in ADHDers, the impact of childhood experiences, and the importance of understanding and treating these conditions. There is a need for updated diagnostic criteria and effective treatment strategies, including medication and supportive environments. They dig into the complexities of ADHD, including management strategies, and the importance of understanding the overlap between social anxiety and mood disorders. TAKEAWAYS Emotional dysregulation is often overlooked in ADHD diagnoses. RSD is a specific condition affecting many with ADHD. The emotional pain from RSD can be both emotional and physical, and can lead to significant life impairments. Childhood experiences can exacerbate RSD but are not the sole cause. Medication can be effective in managing emotional dysregulation. Understanding RSD is essential for clinicians working with ADHD patients. Preventative strategies are key in managing RSD episodes. Sleep, nutrition, structure, and routine play vital roles in emotional regulation. Social anxiety and rejection sensitivity can coexist but are distinct. The window is open for Educator Hub sign-up for a limited time, beginning January 31. Join a community of like-minded teachers, administrators, and advocates who are passionate about supporting neurodivergent kids. Click and join us. Dr. Bill Dodson is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who has specialized in adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder for the last 27 years. In recognition of his clinical contributions to the field of ADHD he was named a Life Fellow of the APA in 2012. He was the 2006 recipient of the national Maxwell J. Schleifer Award for Distinguished Service to Persons with Disabilities. His contributions to the field of ADHD include: The only currently available methodology for the fine-tuning of ADHD medications. The concept of Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria and its treatment with medications. The first non-behavioral theory of what ADHD is and how it can be treated successfully with an emphasis on what goes right rather than what goes wrong. Dr. Dodson has a book for clinicians, patients, and parents on the practice of ADHD medicine coming out at the end of 2025. BACKGROUND READING Bill Dodson’s website Dr Dodson’s contributions to ADDitude magazine

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  33:32
• New Podcast Alert: Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools

  This week, we’re sharing the inaugural episode of the Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools podcast! Today, hosts Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin introduce themselves, and talk about their new book, Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted and Supported. This podcast is great as a learning tool on its own, and it's designed to align with the chapters of the book. It provides actionable insights, strategies, and inspiration for educators and parents. Emily and Amanda discuss their personal neurodivergent journeys, how they came to collaborate, and why neurodiversity is a vital topic for schools today. TAKEAWAYS The evolution of the neurodiversity movement and its roots in the autistic community. Understanding the terms "neurodiverse," "neurodivergent," and "neuro-normative." Why person-first vs. identity-first language matters and how to respect individual preferences. The importance of finding like-minded communities, and making small, yet meaningful shifts in educational practices. RESOURCES MENTIONED The Neurodiversity University Educator Hub: Learn more here Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted and Supported (Available for pre-order before January 21, 2025) We’re only days away from open registration for the Educator Hub! It’s a community of teachers and administrators who are working to build a better, more productive atmosphere for neurodivergent students. The hub includes Expert Q&A Webinars, one-on-one consultations with Emily Kircher-Morris, monthly Five-Minute PD videos, roundtable discussions, and open office hours chats. You’ll find resources that can be shared with your school’s staff, and great opportunities for continuing education credits. Get on the list now. Emily Kircher-Morris, M.A., M.Ed., LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a leading advocate for neurodiversity-affirming practices. Specializing in supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families, she combines her background as an educator with her clinical expertise to create inclusive strategies for fostering growth and resilience. Emily collaborates with schools and organizations to train educators and develop practices that support neurodivergent students. As an author, she provides valuable resources to help parents and educators nurture the strengths of neurodivergent youth, equipping them to thrive in all areas of life. Emily Kircher-Morris holds a Master of Arts in Education, a Master of Arts in Counseling, and is certified in elementary education, gifted education, and school counseling. Amanda Morin is a neurodivergent activist, award-winning author, early childhood specialist, and nationally known speaker dedicated to fostering accessible and inclusive environments for all individuals. With a background as a classroom teacher and early intervention specialist, she played an integral role in launching Understood.org in 2014 and served as its Director of Thought Leadership and Expertise. Amanda has authored six books, including "The Everything Parent’s Guide to Special Education" and "Adulting Made Easy." She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Maine and has received special education advocacy training from the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates.

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  31:27

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