August 8, 2023
Parenting challenging kids can be stressful, exhausting, and frustrating. Whether your child is strong-willed, spirited, explosive, or highly sensitive, you may feel like you’re constantly battling them.
Today, you're in luck if you’re looking for a simple, fail-proof roadmap for parenting challenging kids.
In this episode, I talk to Dayna Abraham, the life-changing Calm the Chaos framework founder, and creator of the Lemon Lime Adventures blog. Dayna is a parenting expert who has helped thousands of families find peace and harmony with their challenging kids.
Dayna shares her story of raising a challenging child and how she discovered the Calm the Chaos framework that transformed her whole family. She explains the five steps to calming the chaos and how they can help you build a safe home and support healthy children. She also gives practical tips and examples on how to apply the framework in different situations and scenarios.
The Fail-Proof Roadmap to Parenting Challenging Children
Dayna Abraham’s methodical approach to parenting challenging kids employs five key steps: safety, trust, calmness, proactive strategies, and defining family success. This road map ensures that parents can find peace and meet their kids where they are when conventional parenting tools have failed.
Grounding oneself, connecting with the child, understanding the catalyst and the issue at heart, and collaborating on a realistic solution suitable for a unique situation – Abraham’s model is backed by science and easy to remember, even when emotions are running high.
Dayna Abraham's Approach to Parenting Challenging Kids
Where conventional parenting tactics often lead to disconnection and mistrust, her Calm the Chaos approach liberates families from power struggles. By offering small, digestible steps, enlightening illustrations, and relatable examples, Abraham equips parents to uncover the root cause of challenging behaviors. This enables them to respond in ways that foster their child's growth and encourage family peace.
Dayna Abraham’s book “Calm the Chaos” is like a friend extending a supportive hand to parents at their wits' end. It offers a straightforward, non-judgmental understanding of even the most challenging behaviors. Her personal experiences lend an empathetic voice to parents facing similar situations. The book illuminates a clear, compassionate path towards understanding your child, honing your parenting skills, and positively moving forward.
As Dayna says, “You can do it. You got this!” Parenting challenging kids may be a daunting task, but with Abraham's five steps in her Calm the Chaos framework, it becomes manageable. Embrace the change, accept the challenges, and remember – you're not alone on this journey.
Learn more about Parenting Challenging Kids with Calm the Chaos Framework by tuning into this episode now.
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July 25, 2023
Autism recovery is a controversial and complex topic, “recovery” looks different for every child as we know each child's developmental path is unique and requires an individualized approach.
While there is no known “cure” for autism, many parents, practitioners, or clinicians are turning to holistic and integrative therapies to help children improve their health and in turn reduce or eliminate symptoms of autism.
“There is no way I’m going to accept that answer.” Terri Hirning, integrative wellness coach and mom from Arizona, said that after she was told they should be prepared to look for a residential program for her son when he was diagnosed with autism because they felt he would never live independently.
In this episode, we will explore the topic of autism recovery and provide tips for parents, like Terri, who believe this journey is possible.
We will share the inspiring autism recovery story of Terri’s son, Matthew, who recovered from autism, once non-verbal, he is now 19 and a high school graduate; loves to talk and use his great vocabulary, and is an aspiring writer!
It is all because Terri decided, “This isn’t going to be how my son’s story ends.” and so her child's journey to autism recovery began.
Chances of Autism Recovery
Although many people and practitioners say that chances of recovery from autism are not within reach, Terri as a parent, did not let people tell her what is possible for her child because she firmly believes that they can achieve anything.
That is why Terri openly shares the chances of recovery from autism and what factors can affect recovery and how recovery means different things to different people. Every child’s health and outcomes are unique.
Noticing Autism Recovery Signs: Can You See The Change?
Autism recovery signs may be subtle but they're certainly there. In this podcast episode, Terri and I share important insights on tracking your child's progress, signs that your child is on the journey to recovery, and potential triggers that might hinder their progress towards an independent thriving life.
How Nutrition Plays A Huge Role In Autism Recovery Stories
The role of nutrition in autism recovery stories, such as Matthew's, cannot be understated. Personal narratives of overcoming autism often highlight the transformative effects of dietary changes and nutritional therapy.
Every journey through autism is unique, presenting individual challenges and outcomes. Therefore, it's essential to understand that no universal dietary solution guarantees recovery.
However, countless anecdotes and research indicate the significant impact of proper nutrition on improving symptoms and promoting overall well-being in autistic individuals.
Autism recovery stories, like Matthew's, provide much-needed hope and connection for parents and caregivers and underscore the critical importance of nutrition in autism recovery.
These autism recovery stories remove the stigma surrounding autism and foster a broader understanding and acceptance of the condition.
Watch the full episode now:
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July 11, 2023
What is Speech Therapy?
Speech therapy helps the development of language and communication skills in shaping a child's future interaction and reaction. Today, we guide you through the process, helping you understand the intricacies of speech therapy, when it's needed, and how a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) can assist your child's journey.
In this episode, Lenora Edwards, an ASHA Board Certified Speech Language Pathologist and Chief Knowledge Officer with Better Speech and I, also explain the common misconceptions about speech therapy being a type of treatment just focused on improving a person’s speech, articulation, communication, and swallowing disorders because it is more than that. Lenora and I also talk about the role of a pediatric speech language pathologist in your child’s journey.
What does a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) do?
Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) helps the journey of a person’s language and communication development. While a Pediatric Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) specializes in treating children with a variety of speech, language, voice, and swallowing disorders only right? WRONG! You will be surprised to know that they can also help with remembering names or retaining memories.
Professionals like Lenora, also conduct assessments, diagnose what can be improved neurologically from the neck up, and offer therapeutic approaches tailored to each child's specific needs. As parents, caregivers, or practitioners, it is crucial to understand that early detection and support in speech and language development can have a profound effect on a child's overall growth.
Importance of early detection of speech and language therapy support
The phrase “the sooner, the better” rings particularly true when it comes to identifying and addressing speech and language difficulties in children. The early years of a child's life are a critical period for language acquisition and development. It is during this time that the groundwork for future communication skills are laid. Recognizing and tackling these issues early and seeking appropriate therapy can significantly improve a child's communication abilities and overall development.
How does at Home, In Person, and Online Speech Therapy Work?
Listen to the full episode now to know all the details here.
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June 27, 2023
Mental health is a global crisis that affects people of all ages. Recent statistics show that 14% of 10 to 19 year olds across the globe have a mental health issue . In this podcast episode, we’ll explore how a science-backed holistic therapy such as calming the brain with PEMF, can help address some of the most challenging conditions like ADHD, executive functioning anxiety, OCD, mood disorders, Lyme disease, and PANS and PANDAS.
The Importance of Calming The Brain with PEMF
PEMF stands for Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy. This therapy uses electromagnetic fields in an attempt to improve health and wellness. Let's break this concept of calming the brain with PEMF down to make it simpler.
Think of your body as a beautifully conducted orchestra, where each cell is an instrument. Just like in an orchestra, all the cells need to be perfectly tuned to play harmoniously together and produce a beautiful symphony, which in this case is your health.
Now, imagine if some instruments start to play out of tune (i.e., cells not working optimally). The overall performance will suffer, and the beautiful symphony turns into a chaotic noise (i.e., health issues).
PEMF is like the tuner who ensures every instrument is playing at its perfect pitch. It sends pulsating waves (or ‘tuning vibrations') to the ‘out-of-tune' instruments (or cells), encouraging them to adjust back to their optimal ‘pitch' or function. This way, the orchestra can return to making beautiful music, and your body can return to optimal health and that’s why to get into a PEMF routine.
The Scientific Process of Calming the Brain with PEMF
While the effectiveness of PEMF can vary and consultation with a healthcare professional is always recommended before starting any new treatment, the scientific basis of it lies in frequency and field theory.
PEMF uses specific frequencies to counteract harmful, disharmonious frequencies, particularly those related to EMFs. These corrective frequencies promote healthier cellular functions, facilitating a shift from a state of high-stress (sympathetic dominant) towards calming the brain with PEMF, a more balanced state. It changes the health and the function of the cell itself.
Our guest expert on this episode, Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, will also reveal the answer to a very important question that many parents neglect:
“Mommy/Daddy takes care of everyone and everything but who takes care of them?”
Parents often don’t get support from themselves. They take their kids to all kinds of therapies, improve their diets and more, but they don’t do it for themselves. Dr. Roseann will show you how calming the brain with PEMF can help not just your child but also yourself get a healthy body on a cellular level while taking care of everybody else.
Now you may wonder, how do I do it or where do I get it?
Tune into the podcast now and take your first step towards a calmer mind for you and your child with PEMF.
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June 13, 2023
Parenting neurodiverse children can be frustrating when you have done almost everything you know but nothing seems to work, like trying to unlock a door with the wrong key. Turns out that the conventional parenting wisdom and old-fashioned discipline techniques are just… old. And no longer applicable in today’s environment and culture.
The Expert in Parenting Neurodiverse children
Andrea Pollack, a former lawyer turned parenting coach, who specializes in parenting neurodiverse children, knows what it’s like to be in your shoes. She tried everything to help him, but nothing worked. She was feeling hopeless and helpless. But then, she discovered the one thing that changed everything for her and her son – the right key for his door and opened it.
She found a way to connect with him, to understand him, and to support him in a way that he responded to.
Proven Process For You And Your Child
In this interview, Andrea reveals her process to turn things around and have a better relationship with her child. She also shares the lessons she learned along the way that she wishes she knew at the beginning of her parenting journey.
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May 30, 2023
It can be hard to find the right interventions for your child. You may feel confused by the different options and opinions out there. You may wonder if there is anything you can do to improve your child’s well-being and quality of life.
You are not alone. Many parents face the same challenges and frustrations. But there is hope. There are experts who have dedicated their lives to helping children with these disorders. They have discovered the root causes of these symptoms and how to address them with natural and safe solutions.
And they want to share their knowledge and experience with you.
This special episode of the podcast will give you a sneak peek of what you can expect from the 10-day Autism, ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorder Summit that shares Intervention Breakthroughs and How to Navigate Options for Parents of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Five world-renowned experts are reshaping the autism, ADHD, and SPD landscape. They share their insights and breakthroughs on topics such as brain imbalances, food sensitivities, allergies, inflammation, anxiety, posture, and more.
What you can expect are 5 snippets from the summit interviews. You’ll hear from Dr. Robert Melillo, a pioneer in developmental functional neurology; Julie Matthews, a certified nutrition consultant specializing in autism; Dr. Darin Ingels, a naturopathic doctor with 30 years of experience; Trudy Scott, a food mood expert and author; and Dr. Krista Burns, a posture and brain health expert and TEDx speaker.
Plus, you’ll get access to the free 10-day Autism, ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorder Summit where you can learn more from these experts and others who have helped thousands of children with neurodevelopmental disorders.
Dive right into the special podcast now.
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May 16, 2023
Do not underestimate the power of creating a routine of small but impactful habits for your child to support their health! In this interview, Madiha Saeed, MD, shares with us parenting healthy brains and bodies – how we can put a child back into balance and reduce inflammation, with easy, cost-effective solutions that we can incorporate into their daily activities.
When dealing with neurodevelopmental challenges, we often feel hopeless and clueless on where to start. It leaves us questions like, “What am I going to do?” or “How am I going to afford this?”
If you find yourself confused about the complexity of dealing with various health conditions, then a good starting point are the simple solutions that Dr. Saeed shares in this podcast. They are easy to implement with little to no additional cost. This foundational approach can go a very long way in helping your child feel better and will support all of the other efforts you are making to help your child thrive.
In this episode, Dr. Saeed walks you through the routine she has with her family. These behind the scenes show you how practical these routines can be!
So please join me and listen (or read the transcript if you prefer) to the practicing board-certified family physician, health influencer, international speaker, and author of many amazing books, Dr. Madiha Saeed, as she talks about Parenting Healthy Brains and Bodies on a Budget!
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May 2, 2023
It's time to take a moment to address your health so you can feel your best which in turn will give you the energy and resilience to help others. If you’ve been feeling like you can’t get through the day without your coffee (or other caffeine laden drink), a glass of wine or are experiencing cravings for sugar or carbohydrates and maybe you are feeling tired but wired, it is time to explore whether your constant on the go lifestyle is creating chronic stress and is impacting your adrenal glands.
I know first hand how improving adrenal health can at times seem impossible, especially when conventional advice isn’t practical for parents and practitioners busy looking after others. In this special episode, Dr. Izabella Wentz and I are debunking adrenal fatigue or what Dr. Wentz more appropriately calls adrenal dysfunction myths in the most comprehensive way so you can better understand the root causes of the symptoms you may be experiencing. Dr. Wentz shares practical and actionable advice from her Adrenal Transformation Protocol, so you too, can get back to feeling your best without having to “press pause” on your life.
Don't miss this episode and dive into the enlightening conversation to learn about adrenal and thyroid dysfunction, its symptoms, and how Dr. Wentz's protocol has already transformed thousands of lives.
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April 18, 2023
When you suspect your child has a diagnosis because of the more obvious symptoms or they have been given a diagnosis sometimes we need to challenge that first instinct. In this podcast episode, we ask “Is it really ADHD?” or are the symptoms vision related that can be resolved with vision therapy? Many parents might relate to this podcast episode as repeat guest Kelly Meehan, Doctor of Optometry (OD), shares her facepalm moment when she discovered her child had vision problems she felt should have been identified much earlier! Vision therapy is something we haven’t covered before which is why I’m eager to be sharing this interview as recording it was both delightful as it was eye-opening.
So what is vision therapy?
The human visual system is complex and comprises not just the ability to see clearly but also various visual skills, such as eye coordination, tracking, focusing, and perception. Vision problems can affect a child's overall visual performance, reading abilities, sports performance, and even general learning and more.
Kelly walks us through what most people believe covers optometry—such as being able to see from a distance or being able to see up close—and all the other essential components of testing our child’s vision. She also explains how there is so much more to our eyesight than an ideal 20/20 vision that may show up as ADHD-like symptoms, that when addressed the “ADHD” will resolve. These elements come into play, especially during those crucial developmental years as our kids learn to read and learn to understand what they see.
Is it really ADHD or is it something else?
Listen in on the podcast to find out how a number of practitioners actually rule out vision struggles as a probable cause in understanding ADHD symptomologies and what steps you could take to learn what the root cause is.
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April 4, 2023
One of the things you will realize as you listen to our latest podcast is this: All children learn differently, but some children learn with greater difficulty, so customizing learning strategies is key to their success.
As parents, seeing our child struggle to learn is heartbreaking to watch. However, all we can really do is find the best strategies we can to ensure our kids have the very best chance at being successful in overcoming their own unique challenges.
In this interview with Dr. Emily Levy, you will gain insights into what a learning difference is and how to assess if your child has a learning challenge. Dr. Levy also shares the early signs of learning challenges and how to evaluate them to determine the kind of customized learning your child needs. In particular, when you join us for this episode you will learn about what a multisensory approach to learning is and how it can help a child with learning challenges.
Listen in now or read along in the transcript below!
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