Math anxiety, dyscalculia, and other reasons math can be hard for kids

Social media and parenting: How much is too much?: Many parents usually try to avoid sharing too much information about their kids on social media. But many parents also want to share cute pictures, funny stories, or their kids’ accomplishments. And online communities can be great places to share stories or trade parenting tips. It can be tricky to tell where to draw the line — how much is too much? This is especially true as kids get older and start using social media and the internet for themselves. For this episode of “In It,” hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk about their own experiences with using social media — or not using it — to talk about their kids, and to find support from other parents. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All right by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

17 min listen

An attorney’s advice on special education disputes: When families are in a dispute about their child’s special education, it can be tricky to know how to handle things. There are big emotions involved, and the law around IEPs, or Individualized Education Programs, can be confusing. But in some cases, it might help to work with a special education attorney. In this episode of “In It,” Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome special education attorney Robert Tudisco. Rob was diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. He is an expert in special education law and disability advocacy. Listen to learn why families may hire a special education attorney — and what steps to think about before engaging a lawyer. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

30 min listen

Busting IEP myths with Understood Explains: Do you ever wonder if having an IEP means your child will be labeled forever? Are you worried that an IEP will mean your child is separated from their peers? Well, those are actually both myths. And this week, we’re sharing a podcast episode that’s all about busting common myths relating to IEPs, or Individualized Education Programs. The episode comes from the latest season of “Understood Explains,” which is all about IEPs. It’s hosted by Juliana Urtubey, a special education expert and former National Teacher of the Year. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

10 min listen

Advocating for your special ed child: If you think your child is struggling at school, what’s the best way to make sure they’re getting the support they need? Who should you talk to first? Should you call a meeting, send an email, or do something else? In this episode of “In It,” hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome Julian Saavedra. Julian is an assistant principal in Philadelphia and the host of another Understood podcast, “The Opportunity Gap.” Julian shares tips and strategies about what to do if your child needs more — or different — support in the classroom. He also provides a road map of where to start advocating for your child, plus how to work as a team with your child’s teachers and school. To find a transcript for this episode and more resources, visit the episode page at Understood. We love hearing from our listeners. Email us at init@understood.org. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learnin by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

24 min listen

Olympian Michelle Carter talks ADHD and dyslexia: Michelle Carter is an athlete and businessperson. She was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia as a young child. With her parents’ support, she discovered her talents in track and field, going on to compete in three Olympic Games: in 2008, 2012, and 2016. Michelle won gold in 2016. Now she runs “You Throw Girl,” a camp that helps girls build confidence. Michelle believes that for kids who are struggling with a learning or thinking difference, sports can be a big help. “It gives them a moment to just get that energy out, let their brains be free while they’re making their bodies work,” she says. In this episode of “In It,” hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Michelle about the challenges she faced in and out of school. They also learn about her experiences as a world-class athlete and entrepreneur. Michelle shares tips for kids to build their confidence. She also offers advice to help parents and families of by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

29 min listen

Bringing sensory differences into kids’ books with Lindsey Rowe Parker: From the colors of the classroom to the noises of the playground, school can be overwhelming for kids with sensory processing challenges. One author has turned these experiences into a new picture book. The book aims to help kids who have trouble processing sensory information. In this episode of “In It,” hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Lindsey Rowe Parker, author of “Wiggles, Stomps and Squeezes: Calming My Jitters at School.” It’s the second in a series of picture books about sensory differences for kids. Lindsey was a child with sensory differences. And now she’s a parent to a daughter with autism and a son who is neurodivergent. Lindsey begins by reading a section of the book. Then she talks about the importance of representation in children’s books. She also shares some of the sensory challenges she faced as a kid, and other real-life stories she included in the book. Understood.o by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

22 min listen

All about language disorders: Language disorders can lead to many questions, both in the classroom and elsewhere. How will the school handle it? What can you do to help at home? And what if you’re not even sure if a language disorder is what your child is struggling with? In this episode of “In It,” hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Kelli Johnson, a Minneapolis-based educational speech-language pathologist who is also a writer and expert reviewer at Understood. Kelli explains what her job is all about, and what it means to have a language disorder. She also talks about making her work with students fun while helping them navigate this learning and thinking difference. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

26 min listen

After the diagnosis: How kids feel about their learning and thinking differences: Getting diagnosed with a learning and thinking difference can be a big relief for many kids. But for some kids, the news can lead to many questions and worries. They may not want to talk about their diagnosis at all. And sometimes, the way kids respond to their diagnosis changes over time. In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome Preetika Mukherjee, a pediatric neuropsychologist. Dr. Mukherjee offers suggestions for ways to talk with your child after a diagnosis. Tune in to get her advice on making these tough conversations easier. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

30 min listen

ADHD and siblings: Tips from an expert: When siblings have different needs, what’s a parent to do? In this episode of “In It,” hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Dr. Ari Tuckman, a psychologist who works with families and couples. He shares tips for finding balance in parenting kids when one has a learning or thinking difference. And he talks about the importance of the idea that “fair doesn’t always mean equal.” This is part two of a two-part series. In part one, we talked to Becca, a mom of two raising one child with ADHD and one without. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

23 min listen

A kid with ADHD. A kid without. One mom’s story: Sibling dynamics are challenging for all families. But when one sibling has a learning and thinking difference and the other one doesn’t, things can be even tougher. In this episode of “In It,” hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Becca. She’s a mom of two kids, one with ADHD and one without. Becca shares how she’s finding balance in parenting kids with different needs. And how her kids interact with one another. This is part one of a two-part series. In the next episode, we’ll get tips on managing sibling dynamics from psychologist Dr. Ari Tuckman. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

21 min listen

How to talk to your child’s pediatrician about ADHD and learning differences: If your child is struggling at school or at home, and you think it may be related to ADHD or a learning difference, communication is key. Talking with your child’s pediatrician can be a first step to getting support. But sometimes it’s hard to know what to say to your child’s doctor. In this episode of “In It,” hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome behavioral pediatrician Dr. Nerissa Bauer. Dr. Bauer offers tips and strategies for talking with your child’s pediatrician about ADHD, anxiety, and more. Tune in to get her advice on questions to ask, materials to bring, and how to make the most of your appointment. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

22 min listen

When kids and teens have tantrums: How to help: Tantrums and meltdowns are challenges all parents face. But for families of kids who learn and think differently, they can be even more of a struggle. In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome back Dr. Andrew Kahn, the host of the first season of Understood’s “What Now? A Parent’s Guide to Tantrums and Meltdowns.” Tune in to get his expert advice on dealing with tantrums and meltdowns. Learn how practicing strategies ahead of time can help you manage outbursts in the moment. And find out what calming techniques can help. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

29 min listen

Parenting the kids you have: One mom’s story: Most parents start their parenting journey with ideas of what it will be like, and what their kids will be like. But what happens when your expectations don’t match reality? How do things change when you find out your child has a learning or thinking difference? In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome Suzie Glassman, a writer and mom of two kids. Suzie shares how her parenting changed after her daughter was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia. Find out how she parents to meet the needs of the kids she has, rather than the kids she thought she’d have. Learn how she celebrates her kids for who they are, and how she’s letting go of parenting shame. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights re by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

28 min listen

ADHD and puberty: What to expect: Puberty can be a challenging time for kids and their families. But what about if your child going through puberty has ADHD? In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek take a deep dive into puberty and ADHD. First, they hear from three parents of teens with ADHD to find out what it’s like to be “in it.” Then, they welcome returning guest Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a clinical psychologist and Understood expert. Listen in as he explains how ADHD and puberty can affect each other. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

36 min listen

Assistive tech: What it is and how it helps: From the talk-to-text feature on a phone to a lap desk, many people use assistive technology (AT) every day. For kids who learn and think differently, assistive tech can make learning easier. But how do you know if it’s something your child needs? In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome returning guest Shira Moskovitz. Shira, a special education teacher and technology specialist, shares some of the ways assistive tech can help. Tune in to learn about the different types of AT, how they work, and how to figure out if they’re right for your child. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

27 min listen

Surviving the holidays with sensory processing challenges: While the holiday season can be exciting, it can also stimulate the senses in a way that makes it less fun for some kids. For kids with sensory processing challenges, the holidays can be overwhelming. In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek welcome returning guest Keri Wilmot. Keri, a pediatric occupational therapist, shares some of the ways the holidays can bring on sensory overload. From costumes to new foods and more, Keri has strategies to help you and your child enjoy the holidays. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

25 min listen

Introducing “What Now? A Parent’s Guide”: Bonus episode! Introducing Understood’s newest podcast: “What Now? A Parent’s Guide.” Tune in for a peek at Season 1, which is all about tantrums and meltdowns. Listen to host Dr. Andrew Kahn as he shares practical tips on how to project calm, even when you don’t feel it. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

7 min listen

Bullying and being bullied: Why it happens and what families can do: Why do some kids bully others? And why do some kids seem to be targets of bullying, time and time again? In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with parenting coach Caroline Maguire, author of “Why Will No One Play with Me?: The Play Better Plan to Help Children of All Ages Make Friends and Thrive.” She specializes in social-emotional learning and raising kids with ADHD. Tune in to learn about both sides of bullying, and what families can do to help. Plus, hear Caroline share her own story of being bullied, and how that experience shapes her work. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

38 min listen

School refusal: Why do kids sometimes refuse to go to school? And what can families do about it, both in the moment and to help avoid it in the future? In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek hear from Erin, a returning guest whose family has struggled with school refusal challenges for years. The hosts also talk with psychologist and Understood expert Dr. Andrew Kahn, who shares some of the reasons that could be behind a child’s school refusal. He also offers tips and strategies for turning the situation around. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

33 min listen

Back-to-school action plan: Setting goals and getting organized: For many families, the new school year brings a real mixed bag of emotions. There’s the excitement of a fresh start combined with jitters about all of the unknowns. For families of kids who learn and think differently, there may be IEPs or 504 plans, and new teachers to connect with about all these things. It’s a lot to think about — and to navigate. In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with returning guest DeJunne’ Clark Jackson, an education consultant and parent advocate. She’s also a mom of two kids, one with an IEP. Tune in for back-to-school strategies that have worked well for DeJunne’ and her family. Find out how she sets goals with both of her kids, keeping in mind their strengths and challenges. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our pod by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

18 min listen

Coming soon: “In It” Season 5: Join us for Season 5 of “In It,” a podcast about the ins and outs — and ups and downs — of supporting kids who learn and think differently. Hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek will continue to bring stories, tips, and advice from families and experts. They’ll cover topics from ADHD and puberty to helpful tech for kids. Season 5 starts Thursday, September 7. Subscribe now! Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

1 min listen

Busting myths about special education (from “The Opportunity Gap” podcast): Bonus episode! Learn five common myths about special education that can keep kids of color from getting the support they deserve. In this episode from Understood’s “The Opportunity Gap,” host Julian Saavedra talks with Christina Gutierrez, a former educator and the mom of a child with an IEP. Find out which of the five myths “gets under her skin” the most — and which one crept into her own thinking when her son was struggling. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

24 min listen

ADHD and eating disorders (from the ADHD Aha! podcast): Bonus episode! This time on “In It,” learn about ADHD and eating disorders in this episode from Understood’s “ADHD Aha!” podcast. Host Laura Key talks with Dr. Roberto Olivardia about why ADHD and binge-eating disorder (BED) often co-occur. Learn how ADHD symptoms like impulsivity play a role in disordered eating. Plus, find out about treatment options and what to do if you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder and needs support. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “ADHD Aha!” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

30 min listen

Summer reads that embrace difference and disability: In this bonus episode, Rachel Bozek, Gretchen Vierstra, and a few of their Understood colleagues share summer reading recommendations. Learn about books that embrace differences for readers of all ages. Plus, get tips on how to make summer reading fun for kids. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

11 min listen

From deep breaths to packed binders: What we learned this season: In this bonus episode, Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra share a few of their favorite moments from Season 4. From self-advocacy at IEP meetings to our kids’ social lives, we covered a lot of ground this season. Tune in to hear which topics the hosts are still thinking about — including why there’s no shame in bringing a five-inch binder to your next parent-teacher conference. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

10 min listen

Summer survival guide: Hacks to help your family thrive: Summer break. Some families love it. Others dread it. No matter how you feel about summer, we’ve got hacks to help your family thrive. In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk all things summer with psychologist and Understood expert Dr. Andrew Kahn. Andy shares what can make summer easier than the school year for kids who learn and think differently — and what might make it harder. Tune in for tips on screen time, sleep, summer camp, travel, and more. Plus, learn ways to give kids the structure that many of them need without it feeling like a burden. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved. by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

25 min listen

Unpacking the teen mental health crisis: How we got here and what to do about it: We’ve been hearing a lot about a mental health crisis that’s affecting kids — especially teens — really hard. What’s behind this crisis? How is it playing out for kids with learning and thinking differences? And what can we do about it? To help answer these questions, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra turn to Dr. Matthew Cruger. He’s the clinical director and a senior neuropsychologist at the Child Mind Institute. Learn how the crisis is showing up in his practice, especially with kids who learn and think differently. Hear Matt’s thoughts on when the crisis started — and why. Plus, get Matt’s advice on how families can help support their kids’ mental health. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2023 Understo by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

23 min listen

Adulting and executive function skills: How to help your child thrive after high school: Sending kids off to the adult world can feel both scary and exciting. How can families best support their kids who learn and think differently? In this episode, hosts Gretchen Vierstra and Rachel Bozek talk with Dr. Karen Wilson, a clinical neuropsychologist who works with a lot of college students. She shares some of the common challenges kids face in the real world — many related to trouble with executive function. Get her expert advice on how families can help their kids manage the demands of adulting. Then, the hosts hear from a parent who’s “in it” when it comes to helping kids become adults. Tune in to get tips from Danielle Janson, a mom of twins with ADHD who are in their first year of college. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podca by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

24 min listen

To medicate or not to medicate ADHD: One family’s story: ADHD medication. How do you decide if it’s right for your child? It’s a very personal decision that often takes time. Learning about the experiences of other families can help. In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra talk with Amelia, a mom whose son started taking ADHD medication during high school. Amelia shares the journey that led to the decision to medicate, including the worries she had. Find out how her son feels about taking medication. And hear Amelia’s advice for families who are making this decision. Plus, get answers to common questions about stimulant medication from Dr. Kamille Williams, a psychiatrist who has lots of experience talking with families about ADHD medicines. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “In It” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

19 min listen

ADHD in the family: When your child’s diagnosis leads to your own: What happens if your child gets diagnosed with ADHD, and you recognize some of the signs in yourself? Should you get tested? What are the benefits of getting diagnosed with ADHD as an adult? In this episode, hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra explore the not-so-uncommon scenario of parents realizing they might have ADHD, too. First, they talk with Jessica Covington, a mom of two who didn’t figure out she had ADHD until her son was diagnosed at age 7. Then, the hosts learn more about getting diagnosed as an adult. They talk to Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a clinical psychologist and host of Season 2 of the “Understood Explains” podcast. Roberto shares why he thinks it’s important for parents (and even grandparents!) to get an evaluation for themselves if they suspect they have ADHD. Understood.org is a resource dedicated to shaping the world so the 70 million people in the U.S. with learning and thinking differe by In It: Supporting Kids Who Learn and Think Differently

26 min listen

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Math anxiety, dyscalculia, and other reasons math can be hard for kids

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