SEL Social Emotional Learning Archives

Maybe it IS ADHD – Does it Really Matter?

July 21, 2020July 20, 2020

I am often asked if I think ADHD is over-diagnosed. My answer – yes. I also believe it is underdiagnosed. The problem is that there is still not one agreed-upon cohesive and comprehensive protocol for diagnosing ADHD; a real, life-impacting disorder that affects a significant percentage of people. And yet there are still many practitioners who do not include an ADHD screening in their assessments. I believe, and evidence supports, there are enormous lifelong risks to mental health, physical health, employment, … Read more

How Do We Bridge This Divide That is Gripping Our Nation?

September 25, 2020June 5, 2020

My Dear People, Words sometimes feel inadequate. So many emotions and trials of the soul colliding at once. I want to share an article with you that I wrote the week before the tragedy of George Floyd’s murder. Please – as those of you who have ever worked with me know, we must find a way to reach one another, to have an open dialogue. It is the only way parents and educators can teach kids skills, and adults can … Read more

Professional ADHD & Executive Function Parent Coach Training

September 25, 2020May 12, 2020

For more than a decade, I have been supporting parents through the most perplexing and stressful challenges they have ever faced – helping the children, whom they love so dearly, learn to become their best selves. Along the way, I have seen parents go through tremendous personal growth, and I have seen marriages go from contentious to supportive. They share with me their stories of success, large and small. Reports of less arguing and ignoring rules, deeper, more meaningful communication, … Read more

Introduction to Dyslexia

September 22, 2020May 2, 2020

Given the prevalence of dyslexia co-occurring with ADHD, I thought parents would like to know more about dyslexia. While some researchers say 30-40% of individuals with dyslexia may have ADHD, other researchers say it is likely much higher. Furthermore, many students with learning differences are struggling during online schooling related to COVID-19. Both student and parent are experiencing increased frustration as these students may struggle with independent learning. I have therefore asked a licensed psychologist, Dr. Cynthia Johnson, if she … Read more

Don’t Look at Me in That Tone of Voice: Triggers and Opportunities

April 28, 2020April 28, 2020

Have you ever walked into the room, and your child’s whole demeanor changed? You watch her face go from relaxed to stressed. Or his body tenses up in anger or frustration. You have not uttered a word, yet your child has heard an entire lecture and is already reacting. Ok, perhaps there was something you planned on reminding your child of, or maybe you weren’t happy that he left his clothes in the bathroom, again. But at this moment you … Read more

Help Your Children Work More Independently: Self-Regulation, Executive Function Skills & the Real Lessons of the Marshmallow Test

April 19, 2020April 18, 2020

Several of the parents I am working with have been struggling to have their children work independently, without the structure and guidance of their teacher. And for many parents who need to get THEIR OWN work done at the same time – well, it’s been a lot to deal with! For many clients, we have been successful in developing routines and practices that have been very effective. I would be lying, however, if I said it was easy or always … Read more