When my daughter Alexandra was diagnosed with ADHD, it challenged everything I thought I knew, both about the condition itself but also, and more importantly, parenting my child. Having dispelled and debunked all the myths and misinformation there is about ADHD online last week, this episode is a deep dive into the symptoms, issues, and solutions. I approach this subject from the lived experience as a mother to a daughter with ADHD and from a clinical perspective as a doctor. 

I deep dive into some of the lesser known ADHD symptoms (like emotional dysregulation), how they have presented and caused issues in our home life, and the accommodations we have made. I cover all kinds of changes we've made like medication, diet, visual aids, sleep hygiene, and school accommodation. I'm here to offer a roadmap of actionable strategies to bring a sense of hope to your family. 

Join me for an honest, informative session filled with the tools you need to support your neurodiverse child in a world that's just beginning to understand them.
This week we have the fantastic Rebecca Avern to talk all about acupuncture and how it can help our neurodiverse children! As a doctor trained in the UK, we start our conversation on the discussion on the benefits of using Eastern and Western medicine in conjunction with one another. We discuss how acupuncture offers solace and support, tackling emotional dysregulation, sleep disturbances, and an array of challenges that often accompany neurodiversity.

Read More

This week we have the fantastic Rebecca Avern to talk all about acupuncture and how it can help our neurodiverse children! As a doctor trained in the UK, we start our conversation on the discussion on the benefits of using Eastern and Western medicine in conjunction with one another. We discuss how acupuncture offers solace and support, tackling emotional dysregulation, sleep disturbances, and an array of challenges that often accompany neurodiversity.

Read More

This week we have the fantastic Rebecca Avern to talk all about acupuncture and how it can help our neurodiverse children! As a doctor trained in the UK, we start our conversation on the discussion on the benefits of using Eastern and Western medicine in conjunction with one another. We discuss how acupuncture offers solace and support, tackling emotional dysregulation, sleep disturbances, and an array of challenges that often accompany neurodiversity.

Read More

This week we have the fantastic Rebecca Avern to talk all about acupuncture and how it can help our neurodiverse children! As a doctor trained in the UK, we start our conversation on the discussion on the benefits of using Eastern and Western medicine in conjunction with one another. We discuss how acupuncture offers solace and support, tackling emotional dysregulation, sleep disturbances, and an array of challenges that often accompany neurodiversity.

Read More

When the road ahead seems shrouded in uncertainty, it's the stories of those who've walked it before us that shed the most light. This week we are joined by Esther Freeman, the visionary behind the SEND Parent Survival Guide, as we traverse the terrain of raising children with SEND. Esther's candid account of her own trials and victories offers a map for parents in the thick of similar struggles – a guide to finding balance between caring for their child and themselves. Through the guide's three pillars, we illuminate tools and strategies that can transform the chaos into a journey of growth and empowerment, underlining the profound importance of self-care and mental health in creating a nurturing family environment.

Read More

This week Dr Olivia is joined by Tamsyn Hendry, back for another bitesize recap! This episode they are revisiting Ep 18 with Rachel Horner, and are discussing our favourite takeaways and most important tips from that episode. For so many families, occupation therapy is truly a kind of magic. While so many may be telling us that there is something "wrong" with our children, occupational therapists meet them where they are at and tailor changes so small and simple, yet with life changing results. 

Tamsyn and Olivia pour over a lot of their favourite take-aways from the episode like the "Just Right" challenge, molded cultery, why autistic children may prefer super hot or cold food, and as always share how these lessons have changed their parenting in real life. 

This episode is a reminder that when we really meet our children where they are at, the smallest changes and accommodations have profound impacts on our lives. 

Read More

This week we are joined once more by the esteemed Dr Maryhan, in an episode that promises to equip you with the tools to nurture the skill of bouncing back from life's hurdles. The skill of resilience is both crucial to a neurodivergent child's life and simultaneously one that can be more difficult to cultivate due to the extra support our children need.

We talk Ginsburg's 7 C's of Resilience (with a focus on 'confidence' and 'competence'),
 Embark on a journey to understand the heart of parenting neurodiverse children—resilience. With Dr. Olivia Kessel and the esteemed Dr. Maryhanas your guides, this episode promises to equip you with the tools to nurture the skill of bouncing back from life's hurdles. We dissect Ginsburg's seven C's, with a focus on 'competence' and 'confidence', the importance of experiential learning, and balancing empathy and support with allowing the room for trials, failures and learning. We also discuss the importance of connections beyond the family unit, how to cultivate healthy coping mechanisms, and the empowerment that comes from control and agency.

Finally, we share the palpable excitement for Dr Maryhan's upcoming "Raising Resilient Adults" Conference (for which I, Dr Olivia Kessel, am a guest speaker). Parents, educators, and all invested in the future of neurodiverse children, join us in this pivotal conversation and walk away with a renewed commitment to the resilience-building journey.

 Kate's expertise shines as she provides practical advice on preparing for pivotal meetings with school officials, and navigating the labyrinth of state education. If you're looking to empower your child to flourish on their unique educational journey, let our stories and strategies guide you toward a brighter, more accommodating learning environment.

Read More

This week we have the fantastic Kate Steer, a former teacher turned neurodivergent family coach, on the podcast to unravel the complexities of neurodiversity in education. 

Together, we talk about the changes in the education system that led to Kate's exit from teaching, the stifling pressures on creativity within classrooms, and journey that many families undertake as they step away from mainstream education. We talk about the importance of advocating for and honour parental instincts and transformative power of self-directed learning at home. 

 Kate's expertise shines as she provides practical advice on preparing for pivotal meetings with school officials, and navigating the labyrinth of state education. If you're looking to empower your child to flourish on their unique educational journey, let our stories and strategies guide you toward a brighter, more accommodating learning environment.

Read More

When Matt Gupwell, founder of Think Neurodiversity, sat down with me, Dr. Olivia Kessel, we didn't just exchange pleasantries—we shared a profound connection over the vibrant spectrum of neurodiversity and the search for what truly ignites our passions. Diagnosed with ADHD later in life, Matt unveils how this revelation reshaped his understanding of success and spurred a journey of self-discovery. Our dialogue traverses the personal impacts of neurodiversity, from the reevaluation of one's life ambitions to the familial bonds strengthened by shared experiences. We peel back the layers of our stories, underscoring the importance of embracing individual strengths over societal benchmarks.

Navigating the dense forest of misinformation can be a Herculean task, especially when it comes to something as nuanced as neurodiversity. Drawing on unique past experiences, from captivating audiences in the entertainment industry to teaching circus skills, we illuminate how these skills can be harnessed to simplify complex ideas and advocate for fair opportunities in diversity and inclusion. Our conversation is a clarion call to those wielding their voices in the digital age: it's critical to cut through the noise and uplift authentic narratives that can shift perspectives, fostering understanding and acceptance within our communities.

There's a delicate balance in educating and supporting those within the neurodivergent community, a theme we explore deeply through anecdotes and professional insights. As a parent to an ADHD child, I share the intimate challenges of guiding emotional responses and dispelling myths about capabilities. We critique the deficit-laden narratives prevalent on social media and highlight the necessity for individuals to proactively seek evidence-based resources and embrace their innate talents. For fellow parents, we chart a course towards nurturing your child's natural curiosities, underscoring the transformative power of passion-led learning and the courage to step away from the well-trodden path to make room for joy and fulfilment in their lives.

Read More

When Matt Gupwell, founder of Think Neurodiversity, sat down with me, Dr. Olivia Kessel, we didn't just exchange pleasantries—we shared a profound connection over the vibrant spectrum of neurodiversity and the search for what truly ignites our passions. Diagnosed with ADHD later in life, Matt unveils how this revelation reshaped his understanding of success and spurred a journey of self-discovery. Our dialogue traverses the personal impacts of neurodiversity, from the reevaluation of one's life ambitions to the familial bonds strengthened by shared experiences. We peel back the layers of our stories, underscoring the importance of embracing individual strengths over societal benchmarks.

Navigating the dense forest of misinformation can be a Herculean task, especially when it comes to something as nuanced as neurodiversity. Drawing on unique past experiences, from captivating audiences in the entertainment industry to teaching circus skills, we illuminate how these skills can be harnessed to simplify complex ideas and advocate for fair opportunities in diversity and inclusion. Our conversation is a clarion call to those wielding their voices in the digital age: it's critical to cut through the noise and uplift authentic narratives that can shift perspectives, fostering understanding and acceptance within our communities.

There's a delicate balance in educating and supporting those within the neurodivergent community, a theme we explore deeply through anecdotes and professional insights. As a parent to an ADHD child, I share the intimate challenges of guiding emotional responses and dispelling myths about capabilities. We critique the deficit-laden narratives prevalent on social media and highlight the necessity for individuals to proactively seek evidence-based resources and embrace their innate talents. For fellow parents, we chart a course towards nurturing your child's natural curiosities, underscoring the transformative power of passion-led learning and the courage to step away from the well-trodden path to make room for joy and fulfilment in their lives.

Read More

This week I sat down with the indefatigable Chrissa Wadlow, founder of Sunshine Support, to talk to her about the journey that brought Chrissa to creating Sunshine. Chrissa's battle against the UK education system to get the support her autistic daughter needed will be both shocking and heartbreakingly familiar for fellow parents of SEND children. We talk about the infuriating and fraudulent bureaucracy that has been created by a deeply underfunded system, and how it very nearly cost her and her daughter's lives.

But this is not a sob story - Chrissa used her experience to go on and create Sunshine Support, a centre which works to empower and advocate for parents, carers, and professionals who support children and young people with SEND. They have free information resources, expert educational and legal advice, and community building for families at their wits end. This episode is a testament to power of never giving up, community, and how much easier the world is when we approach with curiosity, not judgement.

Read More

This week we are talking to the wonderful Lynn Greenberg who, along with her dyslexic son Jonathan, wrote the children's book "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure". We talk today all about how the book came to be, its reception, and her journey with her son's dyslexia.

As her son is now an adult man, we reflect on how far neurodivergency advocacy has come in the past 15 years, and how much further there still is to go with early screening and intervention. We reaffirm the importance of educating yourself as a parent, and listening to your gut. And finally, we talk about empowering dyslexic children via the medium that often makes them feel excluded, and the importance of representation of neurodivergent people in books and stories.

Read More

When the education system doesn't quite fit the mould of your children's needs, where do you turn and how do you change? Caro Giles, author of "12 Moons" and single  mother to four girls joins me this week to uncover the heart of this question. Together, we discuss the complexities of raising children who defy traditional expectations, from the isolating trenches of securing appropriate education to the balancing act of preserving one's identity. We also talk about Carol's memoir, in which her candid reflections provide solace to those feeling unseen in their caregiving roles.

The conversation takes a lot of turns  into the depths of advocacy, where we share war stories from the front lines of educational tribunals, the often invisible economic and emotional toll that comes with them, and the joyful moments in unconventional families. It's a cathartic conversation, full of personal anecdotes and an unvarnished look at the reality many families face, teeming with the grit and grace required to champion our children's right to a fitting education. This episode is a tribute to those parents championing neurodiversity, and a beacon for those finding their way in a world that's learning to embrace difference.

Read More

When the education system doesn't quite fit the mould of your children's needs, where do you turn and how do you change? Caro Giles, author of "12 Moons" and single  mother to four girls joins me this week to uncover the heart of this question. Together, we discuss the complexities of raising children who defy traditional expectations, from the isolating trenches of securing appropriate education to the balancing act of preserving one's identity. We also talk about Carol's memoir, in which her candid reflections provide solace to those feeling unseen in their caregiving roles.

The conversation takes a lot of turns  into the depths of advocacy, where we share war stories from the front lines of educational tribunals, the often invisible economic and emotional toll that comes with them, and the joyful moments in unconventional families. It's a cathartic conversation, full of personal anecdotes and an unvarnished look at the reality many families face, teeming with the grit and grace required to champion our children's right to a fitting education. This episode is a tribute to those parents championing neurodiversity, and a beacon for those finding their way in a world that's learning to embrace difference.

Read More

When the education system doesn't quite fit the mould of your children's needs, where do you turn and how do you change? Caro Giles, author of "12 Moons" and single  mother to four girls joins me this week to uncover the heart of this question. Together, we discuss the complexities of raising children who defy traditional expectations, from the isolating trenches of securing appropriate education to the balancing act of preserving one's identity. We also talk about Carol's memoir, in which her candid reflections provide solace to those feeling unseen in their caregiving roles.

The conversation takes a lot of turns  into the depths of advocacy, where we share war stories from the front lines of educational tribunals, the often invisible economic and emotional toll that comes with them, and the joyful moments in unconventional families. It's a cathartic conversation, full of personal anecdotes and an unvarnished look at the reality many families face, teeming with the grit and grace required to champion our children's right to a fitting education. This episode is a tribute to those parents championing neurodiversity, and a beacon for those finding their way in a world that's learning to embrace difference.

Read More

In this podcast, we talk a lot about the hardships those with ADHD undergo - but what about those who have managed to harness the electric energy of hyperfocus and creativity? This week we have the privilege of hosting the incomparable British impressionist Rory Bremner, who provided an intimate view into his life post-ADHD diagnosis. 

We talk every angle of his journey with ADHD: from navigating the emotional rollercoaster that comes with a diagnosis as an adult, harnessing neurodiversity via comedy, giving yourself a break while keeping yourself accountable, and the personal decisions that go into taking medication or not.

We cap off this journey with heartfelt advice for parents raising children who march to the beat of their own hyperactive drum. Patience, love, and the right guidance are the cornerstones of supporting these vibrant minds. 

Read More

In this podcast, we talk a lot about the hardships those with ADHD undergo - but what about those who have managed to harness the electric energy of hyperfocus and creativity? This week we have the privilege of hosting the incomparable British impressionist Rory Bremner, who provided an intimate view into his life post-ADHD diagnosis. 

We talk every angle of his journey with ADHD: from navigating the emotional rollercoaster that comes with a diagnosis as an adult, harnessing neurodiversity via comedy, giving yourself a break while keeping yourself accountable, and the personal decisions that go into taking medication or not.

We cap off this journey with heartfelt advice for parents raising children who march to the beat of their own hyperactive drum. Patience, love, and the right guidance are the cornerstones of supporting these vibrant minds. 

Read More

Rounding out the holiday season we are releasing a final "Bitesize Summary" episode with Olivia and her guest co-host Tamsyn, this time revisiting episode 26 with Dr Maryhan. This episode was all about parenting advice, trusting your own instincts, and containing your child's emotional dysregulation. We underline the importance of self-care for parents, especially those with neurodiverse children, and connecting to your own gut instincts, as well as sharing changes in our own personal parenting journeys. 

Read More

Ever wondered if neurodiversity might just be an evolutionary adaptation? This week we are diving into another "BiteSize Summary" episode as we revisit our enlightening conversation with Heidi Mavir, author of 'Your Child is Not Broken', from episode 13. Dr Kessel and her bitesize co-host Tamsyn discuss their favourite points from a wise and hilarious episode, including looking at the origins of neurodiversity, the blame of parenting in neurodiversity, and Dr Kessel and Tamsyn's everchanging parenting journeys.

Read More

Happy Boxing Day! 

This is just a little festive message to say that you to all our listeners and to remind you that even if your holidays have been less than ideal, so often the unpredictable chaos of family gathers can lead to our most hilarious and treasured memories. 

Thank you so much for your support: the Send Parenting Podcast has grown into a thriving community of over 13,000 downloads and 2,000 online followers. I express my heartfelt gratitude to every listener, guest, and contributor for this beautiful growth. The journey ahead seems exciting and replete with fresh topics, solutions and expert insights. Amid the ups and downs of parenting and the challenges life throws our way, remember we are in this together, supporting each other in raising our wonderfully wired children.

Thank you for an unforgettable year, and here's to a hopeful and empowering 2024!

Read More