Episódios
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In this episode of the Kids with Big Emotions podcast, Andi Clark reflects on the unique challenges and triumphs of parenting while managing the expectations and realities of a new year. Parenthood in 2025 isnāt about doing it all at onceāitās about celebrating small wins, pacing yourself, and acknowledging the progress you and your child make each step of the way.
Drawing on personal stories, lessons from years of coaching, and practical advice, Andi highlights how slowing down and prioritizing one piece of the puzzle at a time can create long-term success for you and your child. If youāve ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of juggling your parenting responsibilities, this episode is your reminder that youāre not aloneāand youāre doing better than you think.
Key TakeawaysProgress Takes Time: Focus on small, incremental steps instead of rushing to fit every piece of the puzzle together all at once.The Cognitive Ladder: Think of your childās development as climbing a ladderāeach rung is necessary, and you canāt skip steps to get to the top.You Are Doing More Than You Realize: Parents often underestimate how much theyāre already doing to support their children. Reflecting on your efforts can reveal how far youāve come.Breaks Are Okay: Both parents and children need breaks to process and implement what theyāve learned before taking on the next challenge.Build Community: Support groups and shared experiences with other parents can make a huge difference in feeling less isolated and gaining fresh ideas.
Episode Highlights[00:00:00] Introduction: Andi shares the inspiration for this episodeāthe importance of slowing down as parents to focus on meaningful progress.
[00:03:00] Personal Story: Reflections on a family vacation and the progress Andiās son has made in flexibility and emotional regulation.
[00:09:00] The Stages of Parenting: From feeling lost and overwhelmed to discovering solutions, and the realization that parenting is an evolving process.
[00:14:00] The Cognitive Ladder: Why skipping steps in your childās development can lead to setbacks and how pacing creates sustainable growth.
[00:18:00] Avoiding Burnout: Andi discusses her own feelings of parental guilt, burnout, and the realization that taking a slower approach often yields better results.
[00:25:00] Taking Breaks: Why itās okay to pause therapies or interventions when theyāre no longer serving your child or familyās needs.
[00:29:00] Building Community: The value of connecting with other parents to share successes, challenges, and practical advice.
[00:35:00] Moving Into 2025: Encouragement to celebrate small wins, focus on achievable steps, and keep your expectations realistic for the year ahead.
Resources MentionedCognitive Ladder Framework: Andi discusses the importance of building foundational skills step by step.... -
In this episode of the Kids with Big Emotions podcast, we dive into the world of impulsivity and explore strategies to help kids pause, reflect, and make thoughtful decisions. If your child often acts without thinking, struggles to stop themselves, or faces social and emotional challenges due to impulsivity, this episode is for you.
Learn why impulsivity happens, the foundational skills kids need to develop inhibition, and practical steps you can take to support them in creating that all-important pause before they act.
Key Takeaways:What is Inhibition? Inhibition is the ability to pause and think before acting on impulse. It helps kids (and adults!) avoid blurting out, interrupting, or reacting emotionally without considering the consequences.What Impacts Impulsivity? Impulsivity can stem from an underdeveloped executive functioning system. Kids need attention, perception, and working memory to stop and think before acting.Why "Just Stop!" Doesn't Work: Simply telling kids to stop isn't enough. They need help learning how to pause, reflect, and process the situation.Practical Strategies: Teaching kids to use alarms, create plans, and break tasks into steps can build their inhibition skills over time.Understand the Whiteboard Effect: When kidsā brains are overloaded with distractions, emotions, and external stimuli, their ability to pause is diminished. Reducing this "whiteboard clutter" is key to helping them focus.
Episode Highlights:[00:00:00] Introduction: Recognizing impulsivity in kids and how it shows up in daily life (e.g., blurting out, hitting, or struggling to wait their turn).
[00:02:00] What is Inhibition? The ability to pause and think before actingāand why itās crucial for social and emotional development.
[00:04:00] The Building Blocks of Inhibition: How skills like attention, perception, and working memory play a role in self-control.
[00:08:00] The Impact of Overload: Why kids struggle more with impulsivity when their executive functioning system is taxed (e.g., after a late night or an overstimulating event).
[00:10:00] The Whiteboard Effect: How distractions, emotions, and screens overload a childās mental "whiteboard," making it harder for them to pause and think.
[00:16:00] Why Screens Make Impulsivity Worse: The high working memory demands of screens and how they pull kidsā attention away from what they should be doing.
[00:18:00] Creating Space to Pause: How to teach kids to stop and reflect before acting, and why this skill builds healthier relationships and better emotional regulation.
[00:22:00] Strategies That Work: Practical tips for helping kids navigate impulsivity, including alarms, breathing exercises, and step-by-step plans.
[00:30:00] The Power of Individualized Plans: Why each childās inhibition strategies need to match their unique executive functioning profile.
[00:34:00] Long-Term Growth: Understanding how inhibition develops over time and why challenges may resurface during different life stages.
Resources Mentioned:Inhibition Intake Form: A detailed self-assessment tool to help parents identify their childās challenges and strengths in inhibition. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hZqpIgPgFXB_V8_1NGsiClJ6O2GAHb5jXdJNzSxg-yY/edit?usp=sharing Support Circle Membership:... -
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Website: š www.andiclark.com
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In this episode of the Kids with Big Emotions podcast, we dive into Nonverbal Working Memoryāa critical but often overlooked executive functioning skill. If your child forgets where they placed items, struggles with multi-step directions, or has trouble visualizing what they need to do, this episode is for you.
Youāll learn what nonverbal working memory is, why it matters, and how it impacts your child's daily routines, schoolwork, and emotional regulation. Iāll also share insights on how to identify challenges in this area and practical strategies to support your child.
Key Takeaways:What is Nonverbal Working Memory? Itās the ability to hold and manipulate visual images, spatial details, and sequences in the mind.Why It Matters: Nonverbal working memory supports tasks like organizing belongings, visualizing steps, and planning actions.Signs of Struggle: Forgetting where items are, difficulty following multi-step directions, and challenges with sequencing events or spatial awareness.Impact on Learning: Nonverbal working memory is closely linked to reading comprehension, math, and even sports or dance.Support Strategies: Understanding where your child struggles helps tailor solutions like visual reminders, step-by-step guidance, and strengthening visualization skills.
Episode Highlights:[00:00:00] Introduction ā Common struggles linked to nonverbal working memory: losing items, forgotten steps, and frustrated routines.
[00:01:00] What is Nonverbal Working Memory? ā Definition and its role in holding and manipulating visual and spatial images.
[00:03:00] Verbal vs. Nonverbal Working Memory ā Comparing phonological sounds (verbal) to visual/spatial memory (nonverbal). Key examples to explain the difference.
[00:05:00] Practical Examples: ā How visualizing phrases like āthe paper is in the fireā changes meaning despite identical words.
[00:08:00] Why Testing Can Miss the Full Picture ā How traditional assessments lump working memory into one score and why separating verbal and nonverbal components matters.
[00:12:00] Real-Life Impact on Kids ā From following sports plays to organizing backpacks, how weak nonverbal working memory affects daily life.
[00:16:00] The Link to Higher Skills ā How nonverbal working memory is foundational for planning, goal setting, and problem-solving.
[00:22:00] Language Development Connection ā Insights on how visual and phonological complexity impacts reading, writing, and learning disabilities like dyslexia/dysgraphia.
[00:35:00] Time Horizons and Visualization ā Understanding how far into the future kids of different ages can āseeā and plan.
[00:42:00] Transitions and Cognitive Load ā Why big life changes like starting college or moving homes can temporarily weaken executive functioning.
[00:48:00] Parent Support Strategies ā Key questions to identify struggles and practical ways to help your child build nonverbal working...
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Does your child struggle to follow directions, remember what they were going to say, or keep track of what theyāve learned in class? These challenges might not be about focus or effortāit could be their verbal working memory.
Verbal working memory is the ability to hold and manipulate verbal information, such as sounds, words, and phrases, for short periods of time. When this foundational executive functioning skill is weak, it can impact everything from following multi-step instructions to succeeding in school and social interactions.
In this episode, Andi dives into:
What verbal working memory is and why itās so important for kids with big emotions.How verbal working memory struggles show up in daily lifeāat home, in school, and with friends.The fascinating science behind verbal working memory, including concepts like the "phonological loop" and "word chains."Practical strategies to identify where your child is struggling and meet them at their level.If your childās forgetfulness or difficulty following instructions has left you feeling frustrated or confused, this episode will give you insights and actionable steps to better support them.
Key Takeaways:Verbal working memory is more than just rememberingāitās about holding and processing verbal information in real time.Struggles with verbal working memory can lead to big emotions, feelings of failure, and frustrations at school and home.Small changes, like simplifying instructions or focusing on foundational skills, can make a big difference in helping kids succeed.
Episode Highlights:[00:02:00] - What is verbal working memory? How itās connected to executive functioning and why it matters.[00:10:00] - Understanding āword chainsā and how small changes in word complexity impact memory.[00:18:00] - Why asking your child āWhatās the first sound in SAT?ā might be harder than you think.[00:28:00] - How verbal working memory challenges affect real-life tasks like following recipes, conversations, and multi-step directions.[00:33:00] - Strategies to reduce cognitive load and help kids feel successful one step at a time.
Resources Mentioned:Support Circle Membership: Join Andiās monthly membership for personalized frameworks and support in helping your child develop critical executive functioning skills. Verbal Working Memory Intake Form: Download the intake form to identify where your child is struggling and start taking action.
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The holiday season is here, bringing joy, excitement, and connectionābut for neurodiverse kids and their families, it can also mean sensory overload, disrupted routines, and heightened emotions. In this episode, Andi dives into practical strategies to create a holiday experience tailored to your familyās unique needs. From setting boundaries to helping kids manage transitions and energy levels, Andi shares how to embrace the magic of the season while navigating the challenges.
What Youāll Learn in This Episode:
The common stressors neurodiverse kids and parents face during the holidays.How to balance social expectations with your childās unique needs.Creative ways to help your child handle overstimulation, meltdowns, or downtime struggles.Why itās essential to empower your child to embrace their differencesāand how you can model this as a parent.Tips to set boundaries, prioritize your familyās well-being, and manage potential judgments from others.Episode Highlights:
Understanding Neurodiverse Holiday Needs:The holidays amplify emotions for neurodiverse kidsāwhether theyāre struggling with overstimulation or craving constant excitement. Andi explains why recognizing and planning for these needs is essential.Practical Tips for Holiday Success:
Build in downtime or recovery time between events.Use visual aids, schedules, and reflective questioning to prepare kids for transitions.Create safe spaces at gatherings with sensory-friendly tools like headphones, weighted blankets, or favorite activities.
Managing Family and Social Expectations:
How to say no guilt-free or adjust plans to work for your family.The power of owning your familyās unique way of celebrating and letting go of judgment.
Embracing Neurodiversity:Andi shares why neurodiverse kidsā differences are their superpowers and how to support them in stepping into their strengthsāeven during the holidays.Taking Care of Yourself:Parentsā well-being is critical, especially during the holiday chaos. Andi provides tips for setting boundaries, practicing self-care, and staying grounded during meltdowns or challenging moments.Resources and Links:
Join the Support Circle ā A monthly membership community for parents like you to learn, share, and grow together. https://andiclark.com/work-with-me/ Email Andi ā Share your holiday experiences or ask your questions! [email protected] Related Episodes:79 From Punishment to Connection: A New Path to Parenting Successhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/79-from-punishment-to-connection-a-new-path-to/id1674274021?i=1000672009495
83 The Invisible Stress That Could Be Behind Your... -
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In This Episode We Will Dive into:How does attentionāor the lack of itāaffect your childās daily life? Whether it's zoning out in class, struggling to finish multi-step tasks, or morning chaos trying to get out the door, attention plays a pivotal role in your child's executive functioning and emotional regulation. And it doesnāt just affect kidsāmany adults wrestle with attention challenges too.
In this episode, Andi dives deep into attention as a foundational executive functioning skill. She explains why attention isn't about sustaining focus for long periods but about the critical ability to refocus when distracted. Using real-life examples, Andi shares insights into how attention struggles show up, why skipping steps on the "cognitive ladder" leads to frustration, and how small, actionable strategies can create big shifts for both kids and parents.
Intake Questions for AttentionNeeds directions repeated multiple times to follow them.Completes the first part of multi-step directions but misses later steps.Struggles to pay attention during class or conversations, especially if the topic isnāt interesting.Frequently zones out when instructions are being given.Has difficulty refocusing after getting distracted, often losing track of the task.Struggles to stay focused on tasks for long periods, even if itās an enjoyable activity.Finds it challenging to maintain focus on multi-step tasks like homework or chores.Gets distracted by their own thoughts or daydreams, even when they should be listening or working.Has difficulty sustaining attention on people such as parents, teachers, coaches, or siblings.Often seems āin their own world,ā not focused on the current task.Frequently asks, āWhat did you say?ā or needs instructions clarified after theyāve been given.Often asks, āWhen will this be over?ā or āWhen are we going to be done?āTends to hyper-focus on sounds (e.g., chewing, tapping) that stress them out and distract from the main focus.Easily distracted by external noises or movements when they need to concentrate.Frequently hyper-focuses on one activity, making it difficult to shift attention elsewhere.Often misses important details by focusing too much on smaller aspects or specific details.Has difficulty following conversations with multiple speakers or background noise present.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:The true definition of attention and why itās not just about āstaying focused.āHow attention struggles impact daily lifeāat home, in school, and beyond.The connection between attention and executive functioning skills like planning, time management, and self-regulation.Why skipping foundational steps leads to failure and frustration for kids and adults alike.Practical strategies to help kids (and yourself!) build the skill of refocusing through targeted activities and compassionate support.
Key Moments:[00:02:00] - The "Executive Functioning Orchestra" analogy: how attention fits into the bigger picture of emotional and cognitive... -
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In This Episode We Will Dive into:
In this first episode of our special series on executive functioning, weāre diving into perceptionāthe often-overlooked foundation of so many skills that help us navigate life. Perception impacts how we interpret and interact with the world around us, influencing everything from social cues to time management, and even emotional regulation.
What Youāll Learn in This Episode:What perception is and why itās the cornerstone of executive functioning.How perception struggles might show up in your child, such as missing social cues, struggling with perfectionism, or frequently bumping into things.The connection between perception and challenges like anxiety, frustration, and feeling misunderstood.Real-life examples of how perception skills influence everyday life at home, school, and beyond.
Key Takeaways:Executive functioning skills develop well into our 20s, meaning your child has time to grow and improve these areas.Stress, overstimulation, or lack of routine can exacerbate perception struggles, but small adjustments in the environment and approach can make a big difference.Perception struggles arenāt a reflection of "common sense" but rather a developmental skill that can be supported and strengthened.
Resources Mentioned:The Support Circle Membership: Learn how to identify and support your childās executive functioning skills with tailored strategies and a community of parents just like you.Intake Form for Executive Functioning Skills: A tool to help you assess your childās strengths and struggles, starting with perception.
Next Episode Preview:In the next episode, weāll focus on attentionāthe second key layer of executive functioning. Weāll explore how attention impacts everything from staying on task to managing distractions and hyperfocus.
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In This Episode We Will Dive into:
In this episode of Kids with Big Emotions, Andi Clark wraps up her five-part series on the most common parenting mistakes when raising neurodiverse children. Today, she dives deep into the final mistake many parents make: trying to "fix" their child rather than embracing their neurodiversity. š
Key Takeaways:
Shifting the Mindset: Andi explores how shifting away from a āfix-itā mindset toward a flourishing one can unlock your childās full potential. Instead of focusing on whatās "wrong," discover how to celebrate your child's unique strengths.The Power of Neurodiversity: Neurodiverse kids think outside the box, and this ability is a gift! Andi emphasizes how these children are the ones capable of driving change in the world, precisely because they don't fit the mold.Practical Tips for Parents: Learn strategies for creating a supportive environment where your child can thrive. By focusing on strengths rather than deficits, youāll help your child develop confidence and resilience.Youāll Also Hear About:
Recap of the five-part series, including key insights on shifting discipline, addressing burnout, and managing environmental stressors.Real-life examples of how embracing neurodiversity has transformed family dynamics and led to more harmonious relationships.If youāve ever felt pressure to āfixā your childās behavior, this episode will provide a fresh perspective on how to reframe your approach and help your child flourish just as they are. Tune in for a transformative discussion on neurodiversity!
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In This Episode We Will Dive into:
Description:
In this episode of Kids With Big Emotions, Andi explores the hidden environmental stressors that might be impacting your childās emotional well-being. From loud noises to synthetic fragrances, screens, and overstimulation, modern life bombards kids with triggers that can fuel emotional dysregulation without you even realizing it.
Andi helps parents understand how these invisible stressors can cause big emotions in children and offers practical tips on how to identify and reduce them. Whether your child is highly sensitive or youāre just beginning to recognize patterns of emotional overwhelm, this episode provides valuable insights into creating a calmer, more supportive environment.
Movie Recommendation - Watch Now >>> Stink - https://www.amazon.com/Stink-Jeffrey-Hollender/dp/B08BYH4PDN
Key Takeaways:
Understanding the types of environmental stressors that affect childrenās emotions.Identifying hidden irritants in everyday life that may be contributing to emotional dysregulation.Practical strategies to reduce overstimulation and create a more supportive environment for your child.
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Halloween can be a magical time of year, but for kids with big emotions, it can also be full of anxiety and sensory overload.
In This Episode We Will Dive into: Common emotional responses children have during Halloween and how parents can support them. She introduces three types of emotional reactions: the Shark (always on high alert), the Clownfish (sticking close to home, anxious about the unknown), and the Turtle (wanting to retreat into their shell).
From uncomfortable costumes to the chaos of trick-or-treating, Andi offers practical advice on how to make Halloween a positive experience for your child. Whether your child loves Halloween but struggles afterward, or theyāre anxious and overstimulated by the holiday, this episode will help you prepare and navigate these emotional hurdles.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding your childās emotional response type: Shark, Clownfish, or Turtle.Tips for handling sensory overload, uncomfortable costumes, and loud noises.Strategies to help your child feel more comfortable and safe during Halloween activities.How to address the emotional aftermath of Halloween excitement and overstimulation.
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In This Episode We Will Dive into:
One of the most common frustrations parents face: relying on external systems like schools and specialists for their child's emotional and executive functioning support. Andi shares her own experiences and reflects on why schools often arenāt enough to address a child's unique needs, especially when it comes to emotional regulation.
Parents are often left feeling unsupported or misunderstood, and Andi explains why becoming an advocate for your child is crucial. She offers practical strategies and tips to empower parents to bridge the gap between external help and at-home support. You'll learn how to move from frustration to confidence as you take control of your childās emotional journey.
Key Takeaways:
Understanding the Limits of School Support: While schools provide valuable resources, they often arenāt equipped to fully address individual emotional needs, leaving children feeling frustrated or overlooked.Becoming Your Childās Strongest Advocate: Andi highlights the importance of stepping up as a parent to support emotional regulation and executive functioning at home.Tools for Emotional Regulation: Get actionable tips and strategies to help your child navigate big emotions and develop better coping skills both in and outside of school.Join the Support Circle: Andiās Support Circle offers ongoing resources and community support to help parents like you build stronger connections with your children and navigate emotional challenges. https://andiclark.com/work-with-me/
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In this insightful episode of the Kids with Big Emotions podcast, Andi Clark continues her 5-part series on the most common parenting mistakes, focusing this time on the challenge of parental burnout. Burnout is something many parents face, especially those raising children with intense emotions, and in this episode, Andi offers valuable guidance on how to recognize, manage, and overcome it.
Key Points Covered:
Introduction to Parental Burnout: Andi explains the mental and physical exhaustion that parents may experience when they feel overwhelmed by the demands of parenting children with big emotions.Burnout and Invisible Minority Kids: Andi highlights the challenges of raising "invisible minority" kidsāchildren who follow the rules and donāt show outward signs of distress but are still struggling internally. These children often add to parental burnout, as their needs can go unnoticed until parents are already overwhelmed.Stress Animal Metaphor: Andi uses her metaphor of stress animals to explain different reactions to stress:The Dolphin: The ideal state of calm, cooperation, and playfulness.The Shark: Constantly on high alert, ready to react aggressively.The Clownfish: Anxious and resistant to change, preferring to stay close to their comfort zone.Strategies for Reducing Burnout: Andi offers practical advice for parents to manage their own stress, avoid burnout, and create a healthier environment for themselves and their children.Takeaways:
Understanding the signs of parental burnout and how to address it is crucial for maintaining emotional resilience as a parent.Recognizing the unique stressors involved in parenting both visibly emotional and "invisible" children can help prevent feelings of overwhelm.By implementing stress management techniques and avoiding the āsharkā or āclownfishā states, parents can better support their children and reduce their own burnout.Connect with Andi: Join Andi's Support Circle Membership or the Kids with Big Emotions Facebook group to gain access to more strategies for managing parental burnout and supporting your childās emotional development.
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In this transformative episode of the Kids with Big Emotions podcast, Andi Clark introduces a 5-part series designed to reshape your approach to parenting. This series dives deep into the most common mistakes parents make when dealing with children who have intense emotions and how shifting away from punishment can create stronger connections and foster real growth.
In This Episode We Will Dive into:
Introduction to the 5-Part Series: Andi explains the five common mistakes that parents of kids with big emotions tend to make and how addressing these mistakes can lead to a more compassionate and effective parenting style.The Concept of the "Invisible Minority": Andi discusses children who may not exhibit obvious signs of distress but still struggle with big emotions and executive functioning challenges. These children are often quiet, rule-followers who don't speak up for themselves, which can lead parents to overlook their internal struggles.Moving from Punishment to Connection: This episode focuses on the importance of moving away from punishment and instead creating a sense of safety and understanding for your child. When children feel respected and supported, they can better manage their emotions, leading to long-term success.Real-Life Parenting Examples: Throughout the episode, Andi shares stories from her coaching practice, illustrating how shifting parenting approaches can have a profound impact on both the parent and the child.Takeaways:
Recognize when punishment isn't working and start building more meaningful connections with your child.Learn to see beyond surface behaviors and understand the internal emotional and executive functioning struggles your child may be facing.Begin the journey of shifting your mindset from punitive reactions to a more compassionate, growth-focused approach.Connect with Andi: Join Andi's Support Circle Membership group or connect with other parents in the Kids with Big Emotions Facebook group to continue learning tools to support your child's emotional growth.
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In This Episode We Will Dive into:the crucial first step in helping children with big emotions: supporting yourself as a parent. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and personal growth in effectively supporting and role-modeling for your child.
Key Points
Role modeling: Children learn by observing their parents' behaviors and coping mechanisms.Emotional regulation: When parents are calm and balanced, they can better manage their children's big emotions.Resilience: Working on personal growth builds resilience, allowing parents to handle stress more effectively.Mental clarity: Taking time for self-care provides mental space to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.Breaking cycles: Addressing personal traumas and patterns helps break generational cycles.Improved communication: Working on personal growth leads to better communication skills with children.Self-compassion: Learning to be compassionate with yourself makes it easier to extend compassion to your child.Strengthened parent-child bond: Prioritizing self-care allows for deeper connections with children.Resources Mentioned
IFS (Internal Family Systems) therapy website and "Find a Therapist" option https://ifs-institute.com/practitioners Book recommendation: "Kids With Big Baffling Behaviours" by Robin GobblePodcast episodes 44-52 on IFS therapy www.andiclark.com/podcastUpcoming Membership Site
Andi introduces her new membership site, which will provide:
Tools for parents to support themselves and their childrenCourses based on one-on-one coaching experiencesCoaching calls and Q&A sessionsAffordable long-term support for parents
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In This Episode We Will Dive into: How stress can manifest in our bodies without us realizing it, affecting both adults and children. She shares personal experiences and client stories to illustrate how emotional and physical stressors can lead to various health issues.
Key PointsStress can manifest in physical symptoms like coughs, neck pain, and headaches.Emotional traumas and stressors can be stored in different parts of the body.The stress system manages 50 hormone responses in the body, affecting various functions.Children may express stress through stomach aches, headaches, or behavioral changes.Addressing emotional stressors can sometimes resolve persistent physical symptoms.
Notable MentionsBook: "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der KolkBook: "Heal Your Body" by Louise Hay
Action Steps for ListenersStart noticing where you feel emotions in your body.Reflect on recurring pains or medical issues and their potential connection to stressors.Consider the emotional aspects when addressing persistent health issues.Join the "Kids with Big Emotions" Facebook group to share experiences.
UpcomingNew membership site launching on Andy's website (andyclark.com)Personalized attention for early members of the membership site
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In This Episode We Will Dive into:strategies for advocating for gifted children in school and getting them the support they need.
Key points include:
Schools may not be equipped to handle the unique needs of gifted children, especially those with executive functioning challengesTeachers are trained primarily in academics, not executive functioning or mental health supportSchool may not be the best learning environment for every gifted childGetting a private psychoeducational evaluation can help identify giftedness and learning challengesWork on developing executive functioning skills at home, regardless of school situationGet an IEP (Individualized Education Program) in place, using specific language schools understandJoin Facebook groups for IEPs/504 plans to learn advocacy strategiesCreate a document for teachers explaining your child's needs and helpful strategiesTeach children to advocate for themselves as they get olderApproach teachers with kindness and frame support as making their job easierKeep working to empower your child's unique brain and abilitiesResources mentioned:
Andi's upcoming membership group for parentsFacebook groups for IEPs, 504 plans, and twice exceptional (2E) childrenPrivate evaluations by psychologists or SLPs trained in executive functioningNext steps:
Join relevant Facebook groups to learn advocacy strategiesCreate a document about your child's needs for teachersConsider a private evaluation to identify giftedness and challengesFocus on teaching executive functioning skills at home
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Join Our FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kidswithbigemotions
Book a Call: š https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall
Website: š www.andiclark.com
Join Our Mailing List: š¬ https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/
In This Episode We Will Dive into:
Strategies to help parents and children cope with the emotional challenges of the first week back at school.
Key PointsMental overload and executive functioning challenges during the first weekImportance of nutrition and hydrationUnderstanding developmental timelines for future thinkingTips for creating a calm evening routineStrategies to reduce stimulation and questions after school
Detailed NotesMental Overload and Executive FunctioningChildren face numerous challenges in perception, attention, and inhibitionNew faces, routines, and environments can be overwhelmingExecutive functioning skills are taxed, leading to exhaustion
Nutrition and HydrationProvide snacks and drinks immediately after schoolConsider offering lemonade or other appealing drinks for hydrationHunger and dehydration can significantly impact mood and behavior
Developmental Timelines for Future ThinkingAges 3-5: Can think 5-20 minutes aheadKindergarten to 1st grade: Can think several hours ahead3rd to 6th grade: Can think 2-3 days ahead17-23 years old: Can think 2-3 weeks ahead23-35 years old: Can see things 3-5 years ahead
Creating a Calm Evening RoutineClose blinds early, even if it's still light outsideUse red light bulbs to promote melatonin productionListen to audiobooks instead of watching TVCreate a consistent bedtime routine
Reducing Stimulation and QuestionsLimit after-school activities, especially in the first weekDon't ask too many questions about their dayAllow for downtime and less stimulationUnderstand that your child may not have the bandwidth to process or discuss their day
Resources MentionedSarah Ward's research on developmental timelinesTara Sumpner's Seeds of Learning programRobin Gobble's therapy techniques
Next StepsJoin the Kids With Big Emotions Facebook group for support and discussionSign up for the waiting list for Andi's upcoming membership site www.andiclark.com Book a call with Andi for personalized support
Next Episode PreviewAndi will discuss how to navigate getting help for your child at school, based on her personal experiences and learnings.
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Website: š www.andiclark.com
Join Our Mailing List: š¬ https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/
Book a Call: š https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall
Join Our FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kidswithbigemotions
In This Episode We Will Dive into:
My family's journey into homeschooling and while I share insights on how parents can facilitate learning without having to be the primary teacher.
Key points include:
Why I chose to homeschool her two neurodivergent sonsHow homeschooling has benefited my children's emotional regulation and learningThe misconception that parents have to do all the teaching in homeschoolingNumerous online resources, courses, and programs for self-directed learningSubject-specific recommendations for math, science, coding, languages, and moreHow homeschooling allows kids to dive deep into their interestsAddressing socialization concerns in homeschoolingDeveloping executive functioning skills through homeschooling routinesTips for getting started with homeschoolingResources mentioned:
Below I have links to every course I mentioned in this podcast. Here is my spreadsheet for all homeschooling courses that Iām continually adding to and currently cleaning up: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1pmT4f6Vmug-waSRrTjgI6Hmk1PWHThFWyNssHB-AVck/edit?usp=sharing
Podcast with TONS of resources
Homeschooling with Technologies Podcast https://www.fundafundaacademy.com/podcast/
Math
Beast Academy https://beastacademy.com/
Brilliant https://brilliant.org/
Science Dad ā Science Mom https://sciencemom.teachable.com/courses
Check Universities local to you
Financial Studies
How the Market Works https://www.howthemarketworks.com/
Biz Kids https://bizkids.com/learn/
Planet Money Podcast https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510289/planet-money
Federal Reserve https://www.newyorkfed.org/outreach-and-education/comic-books
Funda FUnda Stock Market Unit Studies Course
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Website: š www.andiclark.com
Join Our Mailing List: š¬ https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/
Book a Call: š https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall
Join Our FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kidswithbigemotions
In This Episode We Will Dive into:
How parents can manage their frustration when dealing with distracted children. Including:
Understanding the challenges of parenting a distracted childIntroduction to executive functioning skills and their impact on behaviorThe importance of "refocusing" rather than just "focusing"The concept of "flashlight vs. floodlight" attention (credit to Amisha Jha's book "Peak: Find Your Focus, Own Your Attention")Exploring three key executive functioning skills:
Attention and refocusingInhibitionPlanning
How executive functioning challenges can manifest in daily activitiesThe role of stress, fatigue, and other factors in a child's ability to focusStrategies for parents to manage their own reactions and support their childResources mentioned:
Book Reco - Dr. Amishi Jha - In Peak Mind: Find Your Focus, Own Your AttentionFacebook group for parents (scroll up for link) Option to book a 30-minute call with Andi (scroll up for link)Key takeaways:
Understanding the underlying reasons for a child's distraction can help reduce parental frustrationExecutive functioning skills develop into the mid-20sBreaking tasks into smaller steps can help children with executive functioning challengesConsider factors like stress, hunger, and fatigue when assessing a child's behaviorTake a moment to breathe and reassess the situation before reactingWe invite listeners to reach out, share their experiences, and join our supportive community of parents navigating the challenges of raising children with big emotions and attention difficulties.
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Website: š www.andiclark.com
Join Our Mailing List: š¬ https://andiclark.com/mailing-list-signup/
Book a Call: š https://tidycal.com/andi1/bookacall
Join Our FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/kidswithbigemotions
Today We Will Dive into a heartfelt episode:
Host Andi Clark shares a powerful message of support and understanding for parents dealing with children's big emotions.
Key points include:
A personal observation of a mother managing her child's emotional outburst at a public poolRecognition of the mother's calm and patient approach during the challenging situationEmpathy and solidarity for parents facing similar struggles with their children's emotionsAcknowledgment of the difficulty in staying calm when children are in their "shark brain" or "clown brain"Reassurance that parents are not alone in dealing with these challengesEncouragement for parents to reach out for support and resourcesInvitation for listeners to connect with Andy for further support and guidanceResources mentioned:
Facebook group for parents (link is above)Option to book a 30-minute call with Andi (link is above)Key takeaways:
The importance of staying calm during a child's emotional outburstRecognition of the hard work parents put into helping their childrenThe value of community support in navigating parenting challengesEncouragement to seek help and resources when needed
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