Neuroversity

After first learning about non verbal learning disorder (NVLD) during my episode on specific learning disorders (SLDs) I wanted to know more. I kept finding myself having a hard time distinguishing between autism and NVLD. So I knew I needed to bring on some experts. The same names kept coming up over and over on NVLD resources: Dr. Jessica Broitman and Dr. John Davis and luckily they agreed to come on the show to help me understand NVLD much more deeply. Guest Bios: Jessica Broitman, Ph.D., (Co-editor) is the co-author of Nonverbal Learning Disabilities in Children: Bridging the Gap Between Science and Practice (2011). She is the President emeritus of the San Francisco Psychotherapy Research Group and Executive Director of its Clinic and Training Center. She frequently lectures on Weiss's Control Mastery Theory worldwide. Currently a psychoanalyst in private practice since 1980, she has worked with families who have learning-disabled children for more than 10 years. She is currently involved in several research projects concerning the treatment and understanding of NVLD and has a special interest in helping professionals and families understand and treat this disorder. She is available for consultations and can be reached at: drjess@comcast.net John M. Davis, Ph.D., (Co-editor) is the co-author of Nonverbal Learning Disabilities in Children: Bridging the Gap Between Science and Practice (2011). He is currently a Professor at California State University, East Bay, and Chair of the Educational Psychology Department, where he teaches and supervises. He received his Ph.D. from the U.C. Berkeley School Psychology program and did clinical postdoctoral studies to become a licensed psychologist. He has a special interest in learning and developmental disorders having been the director of a school and clinic for students with learning disabilities for 13 years, which provided diagnostic and intervention services. His current clinical work is primarily with children and adults with learning disorders. His writing and research interests include articles and book chapters in the areas of mental health consultation, suicide/crisis intervention, and learning disorders. He is available for consultation and evaluations can be reached at: jack.davis@csueastbay.edu Links for Resources: More information about Dr. Broitman and Dr. Davis The NVLD Project Website Learning Disabilities Association of America Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Synesthesia is when your brain routes sensory information through multiple unrelated senses, causing you to experience more than one sense simultaneously. Some examples include tasting words or linking colors to numbers and letters. It’s not a medical condition, and not something to be cured, therefore it falls right under the neurodivergent umbrella. Today’s guest not only has synesthesia, she also just recently published a middle grade novel about it, which is fantastic and called The Color of Sound. Emily Barth Isler is the author of AfterMath, an award-winning middle grade novel about grief, resilience, friendship, math, and mime. Comedian and activist Amy Schumer calls AfterMath "A gift to the culture," and author Judith Viorst pronounced it "pretty close to perfect." Emily's latest book, The Color of Sound, features a character who, like Emily, has synesthesia, and was published March 5, 2024. It has received starred reviews from both Publishers Weekly and School Library Journal . In 2026, her first picture book, Always Enough Love, will be published by Nancy Paulsen Books. She has a BA in Film Studies from Wesleyan University and lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their two children. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

This is the second of a two part series where I will introduce you to the most common types of specific learning disabilities or SLDs. Part two is about Auditory Processing Disorder and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities Part one was about Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia. Listen to find out the signs for each and what types of supports and accomodations can help. Resources for this episode: General facts about learning disabilities https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/factsheets/learningdisabilities https://www.ldonline.org/getting-started/ld-basics/what-learning-disability Link to Neuroversity Dyslexia Episode https://www.neuroversitypod.com/episodes/episode/4ced2263/a-beginners-lesson-on-dyslexia-with-lorraine-hightower-certified-dyslexia-advocate-and-consultant Auditory Processing Disorder resources: https://www.asha.org/public/hearing/understanding-auditory-processing-disorders-in-children/ https://childmind.org/article/what-is-auditory-processing-disorder/ https://childmind.org/article/help-for-kids-with-auditory-processing-disorder/ Non verbal Learning Disorder Resources: https://nvld.org/does-my-child-have-nvld/ Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

This is the first of a two part series where I will introduce you to the most common types of specific learning disabilities or SLDs. Part one is about Dysgraphia and Dyscalculia. Listen to find out the signs for each and what types of supports and accomodations can help. Resources for this episode: General facts about learning disabilities https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/factsheets/learningdisabilities https://www.ldonline.org/getting-started/ld-basics/what-learning-disability Link to Neuroversity Dyslexia Episode https://www.neuroversitypod.com/episodes/episode/4ced2263/a-beginners-lesson-on-dyslexia-with-lorraine-hightower-certified-dyslexia-advocate-and-consultant Dysgraphia facts: https://www.ldonline.org/ld-topics/writing-spelling/what-dysgraphia https://childmind.org/article/understanding-dysgraphia/ https://www.occupationaltherapy.com/articles/dysgraphia-101-introduction-and-strategies-5327#:~:text=The%20five%20different%20types%20are,phonological%20dysgraphia%2C%20and%20lexical%20dysgraphia. Dyscalculia Facts: https://childmind.org/article/how-to-spot-dyscalculia/ https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23949-dyscalculia https://www.additudemag.com/what-is-dyscalculia-overview-and-symptom-breakdown/ Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

"We don't need a handful of people doing inclusive education perfectly, we need millions of people doing it imperfectly." - Tim Villegas According to the Oxford Dictionary, inclusion is the practice or policy of providing equal access to opportunities and resources for people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, such as those who have physical or intellectual disabilities and members of other minority groups. And specifically when it comes to education, inclusion is the act or practice of including students with disabilities with the general student population. And yet, what does true inclusive education look like in a public school setting? In this episode, Tim Villegas, the Director of Communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education and founder of their podcast and blog, Think Inclusive, joins me to provide a beginning lesson on inclusion. You will learn Resources cited: A summary of the evidence on inclusive education The relationship between special education placement and high school outcomes About Tim Villegas: Tim Villegas is the Director of Communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education and founder of their podcast and blog, Think Inclusive. He spent 16 years in public education, where he advocated for the full and authentic inclusion of learners with disabilities in general education, even those with more extensive support needs. MCIE: Website: https://www.mcie.org/ Email List: https://bit.ly/MCIE-Email-List Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThinkInclusive/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/think_inclusive/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/think_inclusive YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ThinkinclusiveUs LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inclusive-education/ Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

In this episode of Neuroversity, host Jessica Kidwell chats with Jessica McCabe, the brains behind the "How to ADHD" YouTube channel and author of "How to ADHD: An Insider's Guide to Working With Your Brain, Not Against It." Jessica started her channel as a way to understand her own diagnosis and it quickly became apparent that the information she was learning was helpful to a whole lot of other people too -over 1.6 million other people! In this episode we: About today's guest: Jessica McCabe is the brain behind How to ADHD, a popular YouTube series that regularly releases easily accessible, research-based content providing a toolbox of strategies and deeply felt understanding and acceptance to ADHD brains, as well resources and education for the people who love them. The channel focuses on teaching people how to be themselves and work with their brains, rather than against them, and has garnered the support of over 1.6 million subscribers. Her new book, How to ADHD: An Insider's Guide to Working With Your Brain (Not Against It), came out in January 2024 Buy the book here! Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

From glitter bottles to yoga cards: here are some tips to stimulate all EIGHT senses. Yes, I said eight.Join me as I explore the world of sensory processing and share tips on creating a sensory-friendly classroom for preschool-aged children. Understanding the eight senses is crucial for enhancing the educational experience and well being for all children. In this episode, you will be able to: Connect with me here: The resources mentioned in this episode are: https://www.neuroversitypod.com/episodes/episode/797698a5/sensory-processing-disorder-spdhttps://www.census.gov/library/stories/2023/08/preschool-enrollment.html#:~:text=The%20percentage%20of%203%2Dto,new%20U.S.%20Census%20Bureau%20report.https://www.statista.com/statistics/1312718/share-children-preschool-norway/#:~:text=In%20Norway%2C%20a%20high%20majority,reaching%2093.4%20percent%20in%202022.https://kidzcraftcorner.com/sensory-bottles/https://happytoddlerplaytime.com/21-amazing-sensory-bins-for-toddlers-preschoolers/https://www.amazon.com/Listening-Childrens-Auditory-Matching-Learning/dp/1933052392/ref=mp_s_a_1_9?crid=14B6M44T4DJ3I&keywords=listening+lotto&qid=1704320770&sprefix=listening+lotto%2Caps%2C80&sr=8-9https://www.barefootbooks.com/yoga-pretzels-deck Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

The digital world allows our children the opportunity to connect with people all over the place and all of a sudden they have a community. But how do we help our children find the line of privacy and how do we help ourselves find the line of privacy for our children? - Dr. Devorah Heitner Do you want your neurodivergent child to feel empowered and stay safe while navigating the digital world? Join me as I welcome my guest, Devorah Heitner, who will be sharing valuable insights and strategies to empower neurodivergent children and ensure they have safer online experiences. In this episode you can: Dr. Devorah Heitner is a leading authority in helping neurodivergent children navigate the digital landscape. With her books, Growing Up in Public: Coming of Age in a Digital World and Screenwise: Helping Kids Thrive and Survive in the Digital World, she has become a trusted resource for parents seeking practical advice. Her work has been featured in major publications like The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, and CNN Opinion, solidifying her credibility and expertise. With a deep understanding of neurodiversity and the challenges it presents in the digital realm, Dr. Heitner offers valuable insights and strategies for creating safer and more empowering online experiences for neurodivergent children. Parents can trust her guidance to help their children thrive in today's digital world. Find more about Dr. Heitner here: https://devorahheitner.com https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2019/06/10/my-mother-struggled-with-learning-disabilities-smartphone-would-have-helped-her-find-her-way/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/parenting/2023/09/15/teens-overshare-social-media/ Listen to her episode on We Should Talk About That: https://www.westatpod.com/episodes/episode/7e49c6bc/we-should-talk-about-our-childrens-privacy-the-internet-and-growing-up-in-public-with-author-devorah-heitner-phd Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

November 17th is a pretty important day in my household because it is my daughter Grace's birthday. And 17 years ago today it was Grace who started me on this journey of motherhood, and this journey of understanding neurodiversity more. This episode originally aired in April 2022-Autism Acceptance Month, but in honor of Grace, I wanted to re-visit this conversation. Because she is amazing. Because I wish more people could get the chance to see her for the insightful, funny, beautiful, smart, and talented young lady she continues to become. I’m overdue to get Grace BACK on the show for an update. A lot changes in 18 months, especially when you are a teenager. I’ll have to see if I can call in a few favors and maybe we’ll hear from her again in 2024. But for now, I can't believe she's 17 today, on the 17th. Her Golden Birthday. Happy birthday Grace. I love you to the moon and back. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

I don’t often see as much representation of Down Syndrome within the neurodivergent community, and since October is Down Syndrome Awareness month, I think that means now is the perfect time to expand our understanding. So fellow curious minds, let’s get started. In this episode we will learn: The episode concludes with a tribute to Daniel "Dan the Man" Wheat. An extraordinary man who left us way too soon. Thank you for being a friend Dan.❤️ Sources for more information and/or support: The National Down Syndrome Society Greta Harrison and the Born Fabulous Podcast Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

On this episode, it's a return to the Word of the Week (WOW) Series. In honor of ADHD Awareness Month, I'm focusing on Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), which frequently co-occurs with ADHD. Additional resources to find out more: Dr. Megan Anna Neff Neurodivergent Insights Dr. William Dodson, Psychiatrist and Adult ADHD Specialist Cleveland Clinic information on RSD Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

SEASON THREE PREMIERE!! What if the key to unlocking the brilliance of an autistic child lies in focusing on their strengths rather than their challenges? This episode, Jessica is joined by Dr. Lynn Koegel, a leading figure in autism education, who has passionately championed a shift from the deficit model to a strengths-based approach in teaching autistic children. Her latest book, "Hidden Brilliance: Unlocking the Intelligence of Autism," co-authored with Claire LaZebnik, is a testament to this belief, bringing to light the potential within these unique children that often goes unrecognized. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Summer school sessions are coming to an end, so why not re-visit a season one episode on “Back to School”? As the dog days of summer wind down, it’s time for many of us to turn our attention on to three dreaded words, “back to school”, or maybe they’re you’re favorite three words! Who am I to judge? One thing that is certain, it’s a transition, and transitions do not always go smoothly. Especially in my neurodivergent household. But regardless of the neurodivergence that is in your household, here are some helpful tips that could make back to school a little less rocky. And be sure to let me know what works for you and/or your neurodivergent household. There are all sorts of minds and all sorts of ways to communicate. I'm sharing ours. Would love to hear what works for you! Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

In this session of Neuroversity Summer School, host Jessica Kidwell reviews Holly Smale's 'Cassandra in Reverse'. This book weaves the tale of Cassandra, a neurodivergent protagonist whose autism isn't her central focus, but a part of her multiple layers. From its take on autistic experiences to the author's own neurodiversity, this novel is a refreshing portrayal of the neurodivergent perspective. This book is an essential read not just for the neurodivergent, but for anyone seeking a fresh, authentic perspective. You might have just discovered your next summer read! About the Author: Holly Smale has been writing stories since she was four years old: constructing her own books from cereal boxes and a lot of sticky-tape, then forcing family readers to give her glowing reviews by standing in front of the television. Her path to publication included teen-modelling, factory-work, PR, teaching in Japan and a chaotic stint as the world's worst waitress, along with a BA in English Literature and an MA in Shakespeare from Bristol University. She uses neither of these qualifications on a daily basis, but still brings them up at parties. ​ Her debut children's novel, GEEK GIRL, became the No.1 Young Adult title in the UK and won the Waterstones YA Book Prize, selling 3.4 million books in 30 languages. It is currently in development with Netflix. At the age of 39, Holly was diagnosed as both autistic and dyspraxic. She writes and speaks passionately about neurodiversity and a lot of random topics she's not really qualified to talk about yet does anyway. https://www.hollysmale.com/ Buy the book here: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/cassandra-in-reverse-holly-smale?variant=40900522541090 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cassandra-in-reverse-holly-smale/1142412324 Non US Version: https://www.amazon.com/Cassandra-Complex-Holly-Smale-ebook/dp/B0B3SXPRCV Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Do you ever find yourself stumbling over the distinction between person-first and identity-first language? I certainly do. That's why the first session of Neuroversity Summer School is about the nuances of these two linguistic approaches, particularly in the context of neurodiversity. I revisited an interview I had from Season 1 Episode 5 with political journalist and author, Eric Garcia, who shares his personal perspective on these matters, shedding light on the importance of individual preference in identifying oneself. While some may argue that all this might sound too technical, let me assure you, it's a compelling conversation that challenges the way we think about autism and neurodiversity. I delve into the complexities of these two forms of language and their influences on how we perceive neurodivergence. The discussion is far from over, though. I encourage you to join in and share your thoughts on these language preferences. Remember, it's not about choosing sides, but understanding and respecting people's choices in how they want to be identified. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

***BONUS CONTENT*** It may be summer time for most of us, but the learning won't stop at Neuroversity! Join me as we get "back to basics" at Neuroversity with a special set of "Summer School Sessions" to get us through July and August and help prevent the dreaded summer slide of learning. Find out what types of episodes you can expect over the next two months AND how you can help guide the syllabus. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Have you heard these myths about dyslexia? These myths can be damaging to individuals with dyslexia, causing low self-esteem and a lack of empowerment. The truth is, dyslexia affects reading, writing, and spelling, but it does not reflect intelligence. Furthermore, dyslexia is a lifelong condition that can also bring unique strengths and talents. Join memoirist Ellen Busch as she shares her personal journey with dyslexia and how she has turned it into her advantage. In this episode, you will be able to: Meet Ellen Busch, an inspiring memoirist whose lived experience with dyslexia has transformed her into a strong advocate for neurodiversity. In her memoir, Disempowered: How I Turned an Academic Death Sentence into My Life's Greatest Adventure, Ellen recounts the struggles she faced throughout her education and how she eventually earned not only a bachelor's degree in Health Science but also an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. As a former EMT and adventurer with hobbies ranging from scuba diving to skiing, Ellen is determined to uplift other dyslexic individuals and help them embrace their unique strengths. https://www.amazon.com/dis-Empowered-Academic-Sentence-Adventure-ebook/dp/B0BZ5PG9NY/ref=sr_1_fkmr2_1?crid=5DNSK88VJGM0&keywords=ellen+busch+disempowered&qid=1680810170&sprefix=ellen+busch+disempowered%2Caps%2C343&sr=8-1-fkmr2https://www.amazon.com/Dyslexic-Advantage-Revised-Updated-Unlocking/dp/0593472233/ref=sr_1_1?crid=32CTLKGCWM884&keywords=dyslexic+advantage+book&qid=1686273694&sprefix=dyslexic%2Caps%2C118&sr=8-1https://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Coloring-Book-Wynn-Kapit/dp/0321832019/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3BVNUUGYPNDVC&keywords=anatomy+coloring+book&qid=1686273764&sprefix=anatomy%2Caps%2C107&sr=8-3https://www.ellenbusch.com/ Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Meet Dr. Casey Ehrlich, a mother and researcher delving into the little-known condition called Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). As she explains the complex nervous system response that triggers PDA, we're left wondering how many more people are suffering from this condition without proper recognition or support. In this episode, you will be able to: · Identify the distinct characteristics of PDA and ODD diagnoses. · Grasp the importance of building secure, trust-filled environments for children with PDA. · Understand the use of declarative language for improved PDA communication. · Learn about Dr. Ehrlich's approaches for families raising PDA children. About this week's guest: Dr. Casey Ehrlich is a compassionate coach for parents raising children with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). With a doctorate from the University of Wisconsin Madison, her background in social science and methodology brings a unique perspective to her work. Dr. Ehrlich has gained invaluable insights through her research on conflict, peace, and nonviolence in areas impacted by civil war in Colombia. As a co-founder of the PDA Parents Community and Podcast, she uses her expertise to help parents navigate the challenges of raising children with hypersensitive nervous systems, fight, flight, and freeze behaviors, and trauma. You can find more information about her programs at www.atpeaceparents.com Resources mentioned in this episode: PDA Society https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/ Tilt Parenting Podcast: https://tiltparenting.com/podcast-about-children-with-learning-disabilities/ Steve Silberman: https://www.stevesilberman.com/books/ Rachel Dorsey: https://dorseyslp.com/ Tiffany Hammond aka Fidgets and Fries https://www.instagram.com/fidgets.and.fries/ Dr. Mona Delahooke: https://monadelahooke.com/books/ Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

The public school system in the United States has historically been built to support the success of one type of student: a typically developing student with average intellectual ability. And, unfortunately, any student who falls outside of this type has a much harder time thriving in a system that is not built for them. Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia, one of the largest school systems in the US, is trying to expand the success of more of their students by being one of the first systems in the country to create a neurodiversity specialist. Join Jessica Kidwell as she talks with Kristen Haynor, Neurodiversity Specialist for Fairfax County Public Schools, about this new position and how she is trying to change the culture of this school system in hopes to create a system that truly celebrates all types of students. Key Moments: [00:00:18] Neurodiversity in Public Schools. [00:08:36] Neurodivergent students and equity. [00:17:32] Understanding neurodivergent behaviors. [00:21:56] Supporting neurodiversity in education. About Kristen Haynor: Kristen Haynor is the Neurodiversity Specialist for Fairfax County Pubic Schools in the state of Virginia, which is one of the largest public school systems in the United States. Kristen, who is neurodivergent herself, is a graduate of the FCPS school system. After graduating from Madison High School, Kristen received a bachelors degree in Biology from the University of Mary Washington, her Master’s degree in Special Education from George Mason University, and is currently pursuing her PhD in International Education. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

In this episode of Neuroversity, host Jessica Kidwell interviews Emily Barth Isler, a writer and sustainability beauty journalist who has obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and synesthesia. They discuss Emily's experience with OCD before and after diagnosis, how she structures her life to live in partnership with OCD, and her neurodivergent identity under the neurodiversity umbrella. It is the second of two episodes featuring Emily's insights. Highlights: [00:01:59] Understanding Neurodivergence. [00:03:58] OCD and creativity. [00:08:37] Writing about painful experiences. [00:12:15] OCD and anxiety coexisting. [00:18:38] Living with OCD. [00:22:08] Neurodiversity in younger generations. [00:25:06] OCD as a gift. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon