On this mash-up from our Brainy Moms podcast special series on cognitive skills, we share all the highlights on what they are, why we need them, and how to strengthen them. Listen to clips from Sandy's interviews with our experts Dr. Amy and Dr. Jody as well as a guest appearance from Kim Hanson. In this engaging episode, Sandy tackles a mental task that illustrates the interplay of memory, attention, reasoning, auditory and visual processing, and processing speed skills at work. Our lively discussions cover how each skill contributes to problem-solving and why strengthening them is crucial for both children and adults. Discover insights that will help you identify red flags as well as how to nurture these skills for academic and life success. This episode is packed with practical insights for parents eager to support their children's cognitive development and understand the impact of these skills on learning.

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Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady
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Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

On this episode of the Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy discuss some hot topics parents face when raising teenagers. They explore three main areas: curfews, dating, and clothing/hair choices, and provide practical tips for minimizing conflicts about those topics. Sharing personal anecdotes and expert advice, they emphasize the importance of flexibility, open communication, problem solving, values-driven decision making, and mutual respect in these contexts. They also touch on the impact of technology on parenting and maintaining trust with teens.

ABOUT US:

Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her rotating co-hosts bring listeners conversations with experts on topics in parenting, child development, education, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and helpful advice for helping moms and kids thrive in life, learning, and relationships. This episode is co-hosted with Sandy Zamalis.

CONNECT WITH US:

Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com
Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com
Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms

Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady
Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace
Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

We loved this episode so much that we’re bringing it back for another listen! If you’re parenting a differently wired kid, you may have concerns that go beyond the already heavy stressors that can come with parenting. Am I parenting to bring out the best in my child or doing what’s comfortable, easy or socially expected? Is my child’s IEP just addressing the behavior rather than the stressors that are causing the behavior? Is my neurodivergent student going to be left behind because they don’t perform well on standardized tests despite being very smart? Am I stuck in a cycle of “compare and despair” rather than respecting my child’s unique timeline, interests and gifts?

This conversation Dr. Amy and Dr. Jody had with Debbie Reber felt like a lifeline for many of us raising neurodivergent children and teens. Debbie is the author of the book, “Differently Wired: A Parent’s Guide to Raising an Atypical Child with Confidence and Hope” and the founder of Tilt Parenting. Offering insights, personal stories, and guidance for listeners who may be grappling with insecurities around parenting a differently wired child, Debbie provided comfort—and useful tips—to help us all gain perspective.

Debbie shares her personal story of raising a neurodivergent child and how it inspired her groundbreaking book. She introduces the concept of "tilt," a metaphor that encapsulates the unpredictable path of parenting children who don't fit the typical mold, urging us to shift our perspectives and embrace a new way of understanding neurodivergence.

The emotional strain of the "compare and despair" cycle faced by parents of differently wired kids is a recurring challenge, especially within the rigid framework of educational systems. From public to private schooling, Debbie delves into the impact these choices have on both children and their families, highlighting the concept of "school PTSD" that affects many kids. This episode empowers parents to redefine what success and happiness mean for their families, focusing on the unique strengths and joys that their children bring to their lives.

Advocacy in education is a vital tool for parents, and Debbie offers insights on how to maximize support within the school system. From navigating IEPs and 504 plans to exploring alternatives like micro-schools and homeschooling, she emphasizes the importance of being a proactive advocate for your child's needs. Debbie also shares the wealth of resources available through Tilt Parenting, including a podcast and community initiatives, which provide ongoing support for parents as they embrace the strengths and unique timelines of their differently wired children. Join us for a conversation that offers hope, guidance, and a fresh perspective on the challenges and triumphs of raising exceptional kids.

CONNECT WITH US:

Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com
Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com
Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms

Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady
Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace
Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com