Complicated Kids

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I'm joined by Maedi Tanham Carney—financial planner and founder of Integrated Living Opportunities. We dive into the world of financial planning for families raising kids with disabilities. From special needs trusts to ABLE accounts to the importance of neuropsych evaluations for accessing benefits, Maedi lays out the roadmap with grace and clarity.   To find out more about Maedi, visit her website at www.specialneedsplanning.net.  About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

In this episode of the Complicated Kids Podcast, I talk with Rebekah Marler, a former school principal and current parent to a neurodivergent child, about how her experience challenged everything she thought she knew about development and learning. She shares how traditional milestone-based approaches failed her son and how discovering practices like floor time and Anji Play helped her reconnect with joy, regulation, and intuition. We explore the process of unlearning “educator brain,” the importance of co-regulation, and how her family transformed their North Carolina backyard into a self-directed play haven—mud pits and all—reminding us that real growth often starts with play.   To find out more about Rebekah, visit her website at www.playshire.org. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

Teen and young adult mentor, Matt Douglas, joined me on this episode of the Complicated Kids Podcast for a deep dive into the “other” end of the parenting spectrum—college applications, executive function, and the tricky transition from high school to young adulthood. We talk about how neurodivergent teens—those with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or learning differences—face added layers of complexity in the college process, and how parents can support without overstepping.   To find out more about Matt, visit www.unlockingcollegeadmissions.com or check out his book at https://a.co/d/a5pPgGl. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I'm joined by the incredible occupational therapist Kelsie Olds for a deep and lively conversation about what it really means when we say "everything everybody does makes sense." Kelsie brings her global OT experience—from the U.S. to the U.K. to her new adventure in Australia—and a refreshingly human-centered approach to child development. We dig into what “behavior” really tells us, why labels like “aggressive” or “bad” aren't helpful, and how curiosity, specificity, and compassion can transform the way we understand and support kids—especially our more complicated ones.   To find out more about Kelsie, visit her website at www.occuplaytional.com. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

In this episode of the Complicated Kids Podcast, I'm joined once again by the brilliant Jenn Glacel to talk about the often misunderstood concept of masking, particularly in autistic folks. We dig into the unconscious ways masking shows up as a survival response, how it begins in infancy, and how it can shape a child's (and adult's!) sense of self. Jenn shares her personal experience of exhaustion and discovery, and we explore what it means to unmask and reconnect with the body's sensory experience.   To find out more about Jenn, visit her website at SevenCornersPsychotherapy.com. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

In this episode, I sat down with Amy Lang, a longtime sex ed and parent educator, to talk about one of the most awkward—and most essential—topics parents face: talking to our kids about sex. Amy shared her own moment of panic when her five-year-old asked a completely innocent question, and how that moment shaped her entire approach to sex education for neurodivergent kids. We covered everything from using correct anatomical terms with toddlers to setting the stage for healthy, safe, and open conversations about consent, boundaries, relationships, and identity. If you've ever wondered when (and how!) to start talking to your child about sex, this episode is for you.   To find out more about Amy, visit her website at BirdsandBeesandKids.com. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

Welcome to the 100th episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast where I'll talk about one of the most foundational aspects of parenting—attunement. What is attunement? Why does it matter? And how does it shape our relationships with our kids from the very beginning? We'll explore the neurobiological, emotional, and practical sides of this essential process, and I'll walk you through what attunement looks like in everyday parenting. Whether you're raising an orchid child, a quirky kid, or just trying to navigate the daily ups and downs, this episode will help you understand why connection always comes before correction. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

In this episode, I'm joined by Suzy Miller, a former pediatric speech-language pathologist whose life took an unexpected turn when a 4-year-old child with autism opened her eyes to an entirely new way of understanding communication. Suzy shares her incredible journey from traditional therapy to becoming a telepathic communicator and multidimensional seer. We get into some fascinating territory as we talk about light bodies, the integration of spirit and physical form, and how neurodivergent kids often experience the world on a whole different frequency.   To find out more about Suzy, visit her website at www.suzymiller.com. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

Parents are essential to children's developmental process, especially when those children are dealing with challenges like ADHD, autism, and sensory processing issues. During this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast I dive into the essential role of parents alongside occupational therapist-turned-parent coach, Lisa Chan. We discuss why therapy alone isn't enough, and why parents need to be empowered with the right tools to support their kids at home. We explore how children's nervous systems respond to stress, why logic doesn't work during meltdowns, and how to rebuild connection after cycles of conflict.   To find out more about Lisa, visit her website at thelisachan.com. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

Nicole Weston is a parent coach who specializes in supporting families of children with anxiety and OCD. Nicole shares her personal journey of navigating her daughter's mental health crisis, which led her to deeply reconsider traditional parenting approaches. In this episode of the Complicated Kids Podcast, we explore the impact of sensitive nervous systems, the importance of adapting environments to suit those needs, and Nicole's personal healing process through creativity and mindfulness. We also chat about recognizing early signs of anxiety, building emotional resilience, and supporting children through challenges with compassion and understanding.   To find out more about Nicole, visit her website at RestorePeaceCoaching.com.   Information about the next Forces of Nature Retreat below:   Forces of Nature Retreat A Weekend of Strength, Creativity & Renewal Date: April 26th - April 27th, 2025 Location: Culpeper, VA (Near Shenandoah National Park) For parents raising neurodivergent children, life can feel like a constant storm—beautiful, powerful, and at times overwhelming. The Forces of Nature Retreat is a space to pause, breathe, and reconnect with your own inner resilience. Set against the stunning backdrop of Shenandoah National Park, this retreat offers a blend of adventure, creativity, and community to help you rediscover balance. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I speak with Dr. Diane Hennacy Powell, a neuropsychiatrist with extensive experience in autism research. We chat about the complexities of communication for non-speaking autistic individuals, discussing methods like spelling to communicate and the misconceptions around these techniques. Dr. Powell highlights how neurological differences can impact motor control and communication, while I share about my own transformative experience witnessing a non-speaking child express themselves. Together, we explore the importance of better diagnostic tools, including neuroimaging, to better understand and support these individuals.   To find out more about Diane, visit her website at www.drdianehennacy.com. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

Clinical social worker, Lisa Kays, joined me on the Complicated Kids Podcast to discuss her (super interesting) concept of “diagnosing backwards.” Lisa shares how therapists often see anxious or overwhelmed parents in therapy but may overlook underlying neurodivergence or developmental differences in the child that might be driving a parent's distress. We talk about how diagnosing parents without considering what's happening with their children can lead to ineffective support and even harm. Lisa and I explore the importance of curiosity over judgment when it comes to children's behaviors, the systemic challenges parents face in getting accurate diagnoses, and how professionals can better support families.   To find out more about Lisa, visit her website at www.lisakays.com. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Gilly Kahn, a clinical psychologist specializing in neurodiversity and emotional dysregulation, particularly in teens. We dive into the intersection of ADHD, emotional regulation, and gender bias in diagnosis—especially how the medical system often overlooks girls and women. Gilly shares insights from her upcoming book, Allow Me to Interrupt, which explores how ADHD manifests differently in women and why so many go undiagnosed. We also discuss the impact of hormonal fluctuations on ADHD symptoms, the systemic gender bias in medical research, and how parents can better support their neurodiverse teens.    To learn more about Dr. Khan, visit her website at www.drgillykahn.com. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I sit down with author Kari Baker to talk about her book, Finding Kind: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences. Kari shares her personal journey—from a career in finance to becoming an advocate for neurodivergent kids—and how raising her son changed her entire perspective on parenting. We dive into a powerful story from her book about her son's long-distance swim challenge, unpacking what it means to support our kids without letting our own fears hold them back. We also explore the role of shame in parenting, the unexpected paths our kids take us on, and how shifting our mindset can help us celebrate their unique strengths.   To find out more about Kari and her journey, visit her website at kariabaker.com or justkindfamilies.com.

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I sit down with Zara Waldman DeLuca, a professor, speech therapist, and advocate for siblings of individuals with disabilities. Together, we explore the unique dynamics of sibling relationships in families navigating disability. Zara shares insights from her personal and professional experience, emphasizing how siblings can be both advocates and companions, often shaping a more inclusive and resilient family life. Through heartfelt stories—like a sibling finding a creative way to connect with their nonverbal sister—Zara highlights the profound joy, challenges, and learning opportunities these relationships bring. To find out more about Zara, check out her Instagram, @HeySibSister. You can also find out more about the Sibling Support Project at https://siblingsupport.org.  About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I welcome Julianne Reilly, a clinical social worker with deep expertise in working with parents, educators, and children. Together, we chat about the concept of Positive Discipline, a framework rooted in Adlerian psychology. Julianne shares how it emphasizes belonging, significance, and mutual respect while equipping parents to navigate challenges with kindness and firmness. Our conversation touches on real-life parenting moments—tantrums, meltdowns, and setting boundaries—and explores the internal work parents must do to model respect and connection. We unpack why managing unpleasant emotions is key for both children and adults, and how parents can shift their perspectives to foster growth and resilience in their families.  To find out more about Julianne, visit her website at www.juliannereilly.com. About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I sit down with coach and educator Sara Bybee Fisk to explore masking—where it comes from, how it affects our children, and how it shows up in parenting.    We unpack how kids are taught from a young age to suppress their true selves to meet adult expectations, often at the cost of their own dignity and nervous system regulation. Sara shares powerful insights about the masking behaviors we see in both neurotypical and neurodivergent kids, and we talk about ways parents can create more compassionate, dignified interactions with their children.   To find out more about Sara, visit her website, www.sarafisk.coach.com.  About your host, Gabriele Nicolet Join Gabriele Nicolet, podcast host, parenting life coach and speech therapist, weekly for practical strategies and tips on raising complicated kids. Learn how to go from surviving to thriving and create a family culture in which every family member can feel feels valued, seen and heard. With a practical, relationship-based, family-friendly approach, Gabriele provides tools and insights parents need to create a more balanced and fun family life.If you've been listening and wondering what next steps to take to help your child, I am here for you. Maybe you're wondering whether your kiddo needs a speech and language evaluation, or occupational therapy, or some behavioral intervention to deal with picky eating, anger, meltdowns, hitting and biting. With over 20 years of experience, my knowledge of child development and the available options goes deep. Maybe you just want some practical tips on how to get through the day and feel like a better parent. We can unpack that too. Sound good? Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com. Complicated Kids Resources and Links:

This episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast discusses the intricacies of early childhood education with guest Dan Wouri, author of The Daycare Myth. We have a dynamic conversation about the disconnection between what science tells us about early development and how public policy often fails to reflect those insights.   Together, we explore the importance of nurturing interactions, the dangers of pushing academic expectations onto young children, and how current childcare systems can either support or hinder brain development. Packed with thought-provoking insights and actionable ideas, this episode offers parents, educators, and policymakers a fresh perspective on what it truly means to support children in their most formative years.   To find out more about Dan, visit www.danwuori.com.   Gabriele Nicolet is a parenting life coach who helps parents of children with special needs go from surviving to thriving. With a practical, relationship-focused approach, she provides the tools and strategies parents need to create a more balanced and fulfilling family life. Learn more at www.gabrielenicolet.com or schedule a free intro call to see how she can support you:: https://calendly.com/gabrielenicolet/1-1-coaching.

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I explore the world of reading challenges and dyslexia with guest Daniela Feldhausen, founder of Kids Up Reading Coaches. We chat about why some kids struggle with reading and spelling, the warning signs for parents to watch for, and effective strategies to help kids build strong foundational reading skills. Daniela shares insights on the importance of phonics and phonological awareness, demystifies common misconceptions about reading instruction, and demonstrates practical tools like the Orton-Gillingham blending board.   To find out more about Daniela, visit her website at www.Kidsupreadingcoaches.com.

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I sit down with executive function coach Carrie Bonnett to explore the essential brain skills that help us get things done—like planning, time management, and emotional regulation. Carrie explains how executive function challenges impact kids, teens, and even adults, emphasizing the need to explicitly teach these skills through practice and repetition. We discuss the role of parents and educators in supporting skill-building, how to shift from blame to understanding, and why tools like planners require guidance to be effective.   To find out more about Carrie, visit her website at www.CarrieBonnett.com.

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I dive into the concept of the neutrality of circumstances with guest Penny Williams. We explore how circumstances themselves—things happening in the world—are neutral and only gain meaning through the thoughts and emotions we assign to them. Drawing on personal experiences and insights, Penny discusses how reframing our perspectives can transform our reactions, especially as parents of neurodivergent kids. She challenges us to examine our beliefs, embrace the full spectrum of human emotions, and cultivate a mindset of agency and joy—without resorting to toxic positivity.   To find out more about Penny, purchase the books she has written and get insights on what is coming next for Penny, visit her website at www.parentingadhdandautism.com.

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I sit down with Jaclyn Pederson, CEO of Feeding Matters, to unpack the complexities of pediatric feeding disorders (PFD). Jaclyn shares how Feeding Matters supports families and educates professionals on issues that go far beyond picky eating—touching on medical, developmental, and psychosocial aspects of feeding challenges. We dive into the importance of codifying feeding issues under the PFD framework, the hurdles families face in accessing care, and why understanding feeding development holistically is crucial.   Find out more about Jaclyn by visiting her website at www.feedingmatters.org.

I'm here solo today to talk about holiday survival tips. First, start with YOURSELF. Be kind and compassionate with yourself: you're allowed. Prioritize your nervous system so that you can co-regulate with your kiddos. Next, what accommodations might your kids need in order to make it through changes in food, routine and personnel? Can you set those up in advance? Sending you so much love for this holiday season.

In this episode of the Complicated Kids Podcast, I'm joined by Penny Williams to explore how external stressors—like natural disasters—can heighten family stress and impact our kids' behavior. We dive into how staying mindful of our own responses and developing emotional resilience can make a big difference, especially when supporting children who need extra patience and understanding. This episode sheds light on practical strategies for self-regulation and helping kids feel more secure, even when life gets overwhelming.   To find out more about Penny and how she may be able to help you, visit her website at parentingadhdandautism.com.

Claire Lerner came back to the Complicated Kids Podcast to talk about inflexibility in kids. We talked about so much more! Parents and educators alike will want to listen for scripts to use when kids are having a hard time and when they're testing limits. Turns out: limits are loving and boundaries are scaffolds for learning resilience and flexibility! Did you know?! Have a listen.   To find out more about Claire, visit www.lernerchilddevelopment.com.

In this week's Complicated Kids Podcast I am joined by Dr. Emily King with some deep insights for parents, teachers, and therapists on supporting neurodivergent kids. Dr. King is a child psychologist specializing in neurodivergent kids and teens. We tackle key challenges, like modifying the definition of success, accommodating different learning styles, and supporting asynchronous development. We provide practical strategies for adults to better understand and assist children in thriving on their own terms, breaking away from rigid cultural expectations of success.   To find out more about Dr. King, visit her website at www.learnwithdremily.com.

Veronica Alkon knew that early intervention was working for her son. But she also knew that if she could get "underneath" his neurological differences, that therapy would go more smoothly. Join me and Veronica to talk about her experience with Musgatova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration Method and how she now thinks about human nervous systems. We had some issues with connectivity, so bear with the sound issues for this important conversation.   To find out more about Veronica, visit her website at www.treatbodyandmind.com.

In this episode of The Complicated Kids Podcast, I sit down with Caroline Turner, a social worker passionate about supporting children with autism, to talk about Quirky Buds.   Turner's project, Quirky Buds, is a platform that she created to help neurodiverse individuals find friends based on shared interests. Turner explains the inspiration behind Quirky Buds and the need for creating community connections tailored for individuals who often have unique and specific interests (think: elevators or Minecraft).   Find out more about Caroline by visiting www.quirkybuds.com.

Are you confused about why your kiddo was doing fine at the beginning of the year, but now seems to be melting down more often? In this solo episode, I'll break down why that might be happening and give you some practical strategies for what to do to help your complicated kid through this challenge.   To find out more about Christi, visit her website at www.palisadespeds.com.

Sarice Holley stopped by to chat about how to get kids to make healthier food choices. Hint: it involves adults providing fruits and veggies instead of snack bags and treats. And, it also involves allowing children to be the boss of their own meals through simple strategies.   To learn more about Sarice, visit her website at www.sariceholley.com.

Are you confused about why your kiddo was doing fine at the beginning of the year, but now seems to be melting down more often? In this solo episode, I'll break down why that might be happening and give you some practical strategies for what to do to help your complicated kid through this challenge.

Breath Taking: a Memoir of Family, Dreams and Broken Genes by Jessica Fein is the moving story about a mother navigating her daughter's rare, life-threatening illness. Jessica came to share perspectives and lessons learned on the Complicated Kids Podcast. Her story highlights the strength required to face adversity as well as how she advocated and navigated all the twists and turns along the way. Join us for his powerful conversation.   Find out more about Jessica and her journey by visiting her website, www.jessicafeinstories.com.

This week I am joined by Author, Parent Coach, and mother of an autistic child, Susanna Peace Lovell to talk about her experience raising a child with special needs.   Susanna gets vulnerable with us to share some of the lessons she learned through her experiences with her daughter and how she came to learn that she and her daughter were both on their own journeys in life, and that they were both whole and complete individuals who did not need to be “fixed.” Her work instead was to advocate for her child to be seen for who she is, in all her glory.   To find out more about Susanna, how to work with her and where to find her book, visit www.susannapeacelovell.com.

Although many kids go through a picky eating phase, some kids will experience extremely picky eating. Picky eating is expected; extremely picky eating is not. Jennifer Friedman, RDN helps me unpack the terminology and provides us with strategies for picky eaters that parents can use while they search for the right feeding therapist, dietician, or occupational therapist to diagnose and treat their kiddo.   Find out more about Jennifer at www.feedingpickyeaters.com.

Marian Flaxmann, Holistic Health Coach, chef, and Biomedical Science Policy Wonk joined me on the Complicated Kids podcast to talk about food allergies, food as medicine and her journey to health.   Fussy, colicky, rash-y, and uncomfortable are the words Marian uses to describe her first child as a newborn. She cried all the time; she needed to be held all the time. The doctors said this was ‘fine'; Marian didn't buy it. She googled something like, “Can babies be allergic to breastmilk” and decided to go on a temporary elimination diet.   Within 24 hours, her baby's crying, gas, rash, and discomfort went away. And so began Marian's journey to heal her child's gut and microbiome. By adding foods back into her diet slowly, Marian was able to figure out the foods that her daughter was and wasn't allergic to. Marian brought this curiosity and her health knowledge to her other two daughters, who were also complicated kids. You won't want to miss this informative and lively conversation.   For healthy recipes, Marian's podcast, and 1:1 health coaching, visit www.marianflaxman.com.

Why would a child want to crash into everything and everybody, but NOT tolerate when someone lightly brushes past them? Because: Sensory Processing. Join me and Occupational Therapist, Pia Seltmann, to unpack all things Sensory and how OT helps with motor, attention and regulation abilities. Find out more about Pia and her practice at https://www.tareducationinmotion.com.

Information Asymmetry abounds in the world of special education. Luckily, Seth Besse is on the scene! At Undivided, he is helping level the playing field for parents of complicated kids in California and (soon) beyond. Navigating Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), waivers and other government programs, as well as the healthcare system can be totally overwhelming, which is why the team at Undivided is there to help parents. Join us to learn how they're doing that.    Find out more about Seth and how Undivided is helping families by visiting www.undivided.io.

Emily and I went TO TOWN talking about tech in schools. Have a listen to this spirited conversation about how tech gets used in schools (for good and for ill); the implications on child development of introducing tech into learning so early; as well as some things parents can do to mediate the effects of technology use at school.   To find out more about Emily and her work, go to www.thescreentimeconsultant.com.

Founder of the Free Range Kids movement, Lenore Skenazy, joined me on the podcast today to talk about the importance of fostering independence in kids. She doesn't want much: just a social and cultural shift in the way we think about kids' safety (they're safer now than they've been since the 1970's); adult discomfort (anxiety rates are skyrocketing); and supervision more generally.   Lenore reminds us that "When parents step back, kids step up". Join us for a conversation about what that means - even for complicated kids.   To find out more about Lenore and her work, go to www.LetGrow.org.

When we're thinking about early speech and language delays, parents, pediatricians and other well-meaning people often take a "wait and see" approach. "He'll grow out of it"; "My daughter didn't talk till she was 3"; "You were a Late Talker and you're fine" are some of the things parents hear from other folks.   Jen Branchini and I will dive into why this is actually terrible advice and what to do instead. Join us for this lively discussion!   To learn more about Jen and her practice, visit districtspeech.com.

We promise! Your child is not a monster. Leslie Cohen Rubury, LCSW and host of the Your Child is Not a Monster Podcast, joined me today to talk about her approach to helping parents with their challenging kiddos. As the parent of a controlling anxious child, Leslie learned early on what parenting strategies were and were not working. As a therapist trained in DBT, she brings her non judgemental curiosity to all the work she does with families. Join us for this spirited discussion and how Leslie knows your child is not a monster.   To find out more about Leslie, visit her website at www.lesliecohenrubury.com.

There are so many nuggets (including chicken nuggets!) in this podcast, you won't want to miss it.    Amy Burkholder came on the podcast today to talk about picky eating and some of the factors that might be at play when kids are picky eaters. In particular, pay attention to the part where Amy reminds us that the dietary needs of toddlers - pound per pound -- are LESS than those of infants. That one struck me for sure!   Don't forget to subscribe, rate and review if you really like this episode!   To find out more about Amy, visit her website at seedtosaplingnutrition.com.  

When Jessica's son was diagnosed with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS), she spent some time grieving and asking "why me". And then she went into action to help other mom caregivers not feel alone through their own experience of parenting a child with disabilities. The result was her organization, We Are Brave Together, and her book, "Becoming Brave Together: heroic, extraordinary caregiving stories from mothers hidden in plain sight", released May 2024. Join Jessica and me for this insightful discussion about resilience, strength and the beautiful stories contained in this gorgeous book.  Find We Are Brave Together on Amazon. To find out more about Jessica and We Are Brave Together, visit her website at www.wearebravetogether.com.

Amanda Diekman, author of the book Low Demand Parenting, joined me today for some "yellow bubble" time. Our conversation ran the gamut from autistic burnout, the problems with masking, and how our children are not empty vessels to be filled to how to think differently about the relationship with ourselves and our children while also dropping demands. This was a powerful conversation that you won't want to miss!   To find out more about Amanda and her work, find her on FB and IG @lowdemandamanda and at www.amandadiekman.com.

Amanda Diekman, author of the book Low Demand Parenting, joined me today for some "yellow bubble" time. Our conversation ran the gamut from autistic burnout, the problems with masking, and how our children are not empty vessels to be filled to how to think differently about the relationship with ourselves and our children while also dropping demands. This was a powerful conversation that you won't want to miss!   To find out more about Amanda and her work, find her on FB and IG @lowdemandamanda and at www.amandadiekman.com.

Join me and Emily Cherkin for a spirited discussion about Tech-Intentional Screen Use. We'll cover what it means to be tech-intentional, how the battles that parents have with tech and their kids isn't a fair fight, some of the research around kids and screens, and how parents can manage screen use at home using Emily's judgement-free tech-intentional approach. You won't want to miss this one!   Find out more about Emily by visiting her website at www.thescreentimeconsultant.com or pick up her book at https://www.amazon.com/Screentime-Solution-Judgment-Free-Becoming-Tech-Intentional/dp/B0CB9JS5KB. To view the research mentioned in the podcast, go to https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2815514?guestAccessKey=a[…]ferral&utm_campaign=ftm_links&utm_content=tfl&utm_term=030424.

Angela O'Brien and I sat down to discuss the ways in which her complicated kids have changed her life. From a challenging toddlerhood with her first child, to her second child's unexpected Down Syndrome diagnosis, Angela helps put it all into perspective, having survived and thrived, along with her children.    We talk about the moment she realized that she needed to really start listening to what her children were telling her - verbally and nonverbally - and question her own assumptions about what her children's paths would be. We also talk about how she's leveraging what she's learned, along with her natural gift for organization, to help special needs families find more time and space for joy in their lives through her Especially Organized podcast and her professional organizing business, Your Space Reclaimed.   Find out more at www.yourspacereclaimed.net.

Complicated Kids can sometimes struggle with constipation -- even if they're pooping every day! Join me and Dr. Kiley Gibbs, pelvic floor physical therapist, as we investigate some of the reasons kids become constipated and how to help them.   Visit www.kcgpediatricpt.com to find out more about Kiley and her practice.

Join Scot Marken and me to talk about post high-school placements for neurodivergent kids. There are more and more opportunities for college-bound ND teens, as well as more and more supports for students who need them.   We'll talk about some of these programs as well as mental health conditions and supports that are available beyond high school. Becoming responsible for their own medication, becoming aware of their own neurology, being able to advocate for themselves are all skills that young adults will need in order to leave home and live independently. We'll dive into these topics and so much more.   To find out more about Scot at www.EdRedefined.com.

Cai Graham joined me today from the UK to talk about anxiety in teens (and parents). Trained as a coach and NLP practitioner, Cai's approach is practical, forward-looking and simple (though not always easy). Her no-nonsense way will have you leaning in for more all the way through this episode. Stay tuned till the end for an elegant and neuroscience-based way of dealing with anxiety!    To find out more about Cai and how she may be able to help you and your teen visit her website at https://www.caigraham.com/.

Argavan Nilfaroush, Pediatric Registered Dietician and Founder and CEO of Baby Steps Nutrition, talks to us about nutrition and kids today.   Argavan describes how the principles of nutrition are applied differently in children vs. adults. We chat about the brain - gut connection, her process in interpreting the data she collects, the emotional aspects of working with parents, and how the gut can affect not only nutrition, but sleep, habits, behavior, and hormones as well.   To find out more about Argavan, visit her website at https://babystepsnutrition.com.