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The Brain Science of Reading (Part 2): Why Cognitive Skills Matter More Than Curriculum | Donesa Walker

merica faces a reading crisis that’s worsening despite decades of curriculum changes and interventions. In this eye-opening continuation of our Brainy Moms series on reading, Dr. Amy and Sandy interview reading and dyslexia specialist Donesa Walker. We explore why reading scores keep declining nationwide and what parents can do about it.Louisiana’s dramatic rise from near-bottom to 16th in national reading rankings offers valuable insights. Their success came through mandatory science of reading training for all teachers, high-dose tutoring for struggling students, and crucially, empowering parents with educational choices. Yet even this success story highlights a fundamental truth: schools cannot bear sole responsibility for reading achievement.The discussion takes a fascinating turn when we examine the cognitive foundations of reading. Processing speed, working memory, attention, and other brain skills form the bedrock upon which reading abilities are built. Without these foundations, reading interventions become like “laying asphalt over potholes” – temporarily effective but ultimately failing to create lasting change.Donesa explains why traditional reading interventions often show disappointing results in research studies – they simply don’t address the underlying cognitive weaknesses. Meanwhile, a program called ReadRx combine cognitive training with reading instruction and has demonstrated dramatic improvements, with studies showing 4-5 year gains in just 24 weeks.We also explore how background knowledge shapes reading comprehension. When children lack rich experiences that build vocabulary and background knowledge, reading becomes an empty exercise. This explains why the number of books in a home directly correlates with reading test results, and why programs providing free books to children make such a difference.The conversation concludes with a paradigm-shifting perspective: every parent is essentially a homeschool parent, simply choosing where and by whom curriculum is delivered. This perspective empowers families to take control of their children’s reading journey, filling curriculum gaps and providing the experiences and cognitive development necessary for reading success.Join us to discover practical strategies for developing your child’s reading skills beyond the classroom, and learn why brain health deserves the same attention as physical health in today’s educational landscape.

Podcast

The Brain Science of Reading (Part 1): Why America’s Children Are Falling Behind | Donesa Walker

Amy Moore, PhD

Wondering why America’s children are struggling to read fluently? Is your child struggling with reading? Reading and dyslexia specialist Donesa Walker joins Dr. Amy and Sandy on this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast to unpack the alarming decline in America’s reading performance revealed in the latest Nation’s Report Card.

With the wisdom gained from 30+ years working with dyslexic students, Donesa challenges our fundamental understanding of reading instruction. “Reading begins in the brain, not in the classroom,” she explains, revealing why conventional approaches often fall short despite decades of educational reform efforts.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as we explore the neurological foundations of reading. Cognitive skills like processing speed, working memory, and visual-auditory processing, and reasoning form the bedrock upon which reading is built, yet traditional interventions rarely address these crucial elements. This explains why many struggling readers show the “two steps forward, one step back” pattern despite receiving specialized instruction.

We also chat about Louisiana’s remarkable reading turnaround story, where targeted interventions and a holistic approach moved the state from near-bottom to 16th nationally in reading performance. While celebrating this success, Donesa cautions that addressing America’s reading crisis ultimately requires parents to recognize their crucial role. “Every parent is a homeschool parent,” she asserts, explaining why schools alone cannot solve our literacy challenges.

Ready to transform your understanding of reading challenges and discover evidence-based solutions that actually work? Listen now to gain practical insights that could change how you support the readers in your life.

Podcast

Shame-Free Money Management for the Whole Family | Lindsey Konchar

Amy Moore, PhD

Does money management make you want to cry? Or do you get frustrated when it’s a constant source of conflict? Want to help your whole family make financial decisions and manage their money in a shame-free way? On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, discover how to transform your relationship with money as financial therapist Lindsey Konchar joins Sandy for a compelling discussion into the world of money management for the whole family. Lindsey skillfully combines her training and expertise in behavioral therapy with financial education, reshaping how individuals and families handle finances. From her personal experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and postpartum anxiety, Lindsey found her true calling in financial therapy, helping others understand and change their deeply ingrained “money personalities” and scripts formed in childhood. This enlightening episode promises to offer you insights into developing healthier financial habits and understanding your “money story.”

Lindsey sheds light on the common patterns of financial avoidance and miscommunication in families, particularly prevalent among couples. We explore how societal expectations and personal money scripts can lead to tensions, and how finding common ground can facilitate more effective financial discussions. Lindsey provides actionable advice on aligning your spending with personal priorities and engaging in financial self-care practices. Her unique perspective highlights the power of approaching money matters with respect and vulnerability, paving the way for financial harmony.

Empowering the next generation with financial literacy is crucial, and Lindsey offers innovative strategies to involve children and teens in money management. Learn about her “four labeled buckets” method for young kids and how she encourages teens to take charge of their financial futures through practices like opening custodial Roth IRAs. By fostering open and honest financial conversations within families, Lindsey emphasizes the importance of building a foundation for financial independence and well-being. Tune in to gain practical tips and inspiration from financial therapist Lindsey Konchar, aiming to reshape your family’s financial future and enrich your financial mindset.

Podcast

Teaching Teens Healthy Food Habits | Claire Ketchum

Amy Moore, PhD

Does your teen have an unhealthy relationship with food? Want to learn some tips for nurturing and teaching your teen some heathy eating habits? Join Dr. Amy and Sandy on this episode of the Brainy Moms podcasts as they interview Claire Ketchum, the innovator of the Peaceful Eating Method. Drawing from her own challenges with yo-yo dieting, Claire joins us to illuminate pathways for teens to develop positive body images and sustainable eating patterns. Together, we delve into the reasons why teens fall into unhealthy eating cycles and how parents can intervene with compassion and insight, fostering self-confidence and well-being without triggering defensiveness.

Dive into practical parenting strategies as we address teen stress and its impact on eating habits. We unpack the importance of identifying stressors, whether they stem from school, home, or social encounters, and how these can affect eating behaviors. Learn about effective techniques like the emotional freedom technique that can help manage stress and promote healthier habits. This discussion also touches on the delicate issue of self-esteem, especially for female teens, and how parents can model a healthy relationship with food to guide their children subtly.

Through empowering tools like positive self-talk, Claire offers strategies to help teens cultivate a resilient self-image. We explore how parents can encourage this growth by fostering open communication and collaborative decision-making about food choices. Uncover the challenges of immediate gratification and its influence on teens, as well as how structured habit shifts can lead to lasting lifestyle changes. Together, we provide a roadmap for parents and teens to break free from the dieting cycle and embrace healthier, more balanced lives.

Podcast

Teen Mental Health and Eating Disorders: Tips for Parents | Bryn Miller

Amy Moore, PhD

Feeling overwhelmed over the tumultuous teen years? Confused about your teen’s eating habits? Join us for a conversation with Bryn Miller, an experienced adolescent eating disorder therapist turned parent coach, about the profound impact of parental support on adolescent mental health and eating disorders. On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Bryn joins Dr. Amy and Sandy to help parents to bridge the gap with their teens. Discover how she utilizes whole family healing to tackle the often-stigmatized experience of parenting teenagers, turning it into a dynamic period of growth and development.

We dive into eating disorders, examining the roles of genetics, culture, and environment. Bryn sheds light on the vital part parents play in supporting adolescents through these challenges, guiding them to find information amidst a sea of misconceptions. Through enhancing emotional self-efficacy and fostering a nurturing family environment, parents can significantly improve outcomes for their children. Bryn’s insights underscore the importance of finding true belonging within oneself and the power of emotional resilience in battling societal pressures on body image and values.

The conversation doesn’t stop there. Bryn also provides practical strategies for parents navigating the emotional landscape of their teenagers seeking independence. Learn the art of “scaffolding” rather than “fixing,” offering support while allowing teens to tackle their own challenges. She emphasizes emotional granularity, effective caregiving strategies, and the significance of self-care while showcasing how parental love can transform the family dynamic. With insights from Emotionally Focused Family Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Bryn equips parents with the tools to remain calm and connected, fostering stronger, more resilient family bonds.

Podcast

ENCORE EPISODE: The Parent-Teen Partnership: 5 Steps to Create Calm and Reduce Conflict | Jeanine Mouchawar

Amy Moore, PhD

Want more calm and less conflict with your teen? What if transforming your family’s communication dynamic could be as simple as a shift in mindset? Join Dr. Amy and Sandy for an engaging episode with guest Jeanine Mouchawar, a seasoned life coach for parents, as she shares her journey from conflict to connection with teenagers. Jeanine’s personal parenting experiences with academic stress, social media pressures, and ADHD challenges led her to embrace new strategies for parenting teens. In this conversation, you’ll gain insights into how these techniques can restore harmony and foster open communication within your own family.

Discover new tips for effective communication in parenting teens, rooted in the principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral concepts. We discuss the pivotal role of understanding the teenage transition to adulthood and adapting communication styles to support them rather than solving their problems for them. Jeanine shares how maintaining core values while fostering curiosity and encouraging teens to discover their own insights can lead to healthier relationships. By learning to manage emotions and use non-judgmental language, parents can create a supportive environment that empowers their teens.

Explore practical strategies for setting boundaries that respect and engage teenagers without resorting to control or punishment. Jeanine emphasizes the importance of validating emotions to strengthen connection and communication, helping teens process feelings like stress and embarrassment. By involving them in boundary-setting conversations, parents can guide them towards better decision-making and independence. This episode promises valuable insights for nurturing confidence and self-assurance in your teens, ultimately leading to a more harmonious home life.

Podcast

Stop Helicopter Parenting: Balancing Empathy & Boundaries with Your Teens | Ann Coleman

Amy Moore, PhD

At your wits end with trying to find effective consequences for your teen’s behavior? Maybe loosening the reins rather than tightening them might work better! (Hint: Stop helicopter parenting your teen!) On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy interview Ann Coleman, an attorney, parent educator, and host of the podcast, Speaking of Teens. Ann shares a deeply personal journey that many parents might find all too relatable. Imagine discovering that your child, already grappling with anxiety and ADHD, has turned to marijuana. Anne’s initial reaction was to tighten the reins through control and punishment, only to watch her relationship with her son deteriorate. However, a transformative encounter with a family counselor led her to embrace empathy and understanding, an approach she now champions through her podcast and Parent Camp program.

Ann’s story prompts us to question the long-held belief in helicopter parenting and its impact on teen autonomy. As we talk about societal pressures that push teenagers to behave beyond their developmental capabilities, there’s a stark reminder of the importance of mutual respect. The conversation veers into the pitfalls of projecting perfect family lives on social media and the real harm it can cause by stigmatizing parenting struggles. We emphasize the need for balance—between stepping in to guide teens and allowing teens to face natural consequences—a critical factor that can significantly influence adolescent development.

Through personal anecdotes and expert advice, we explore the pressures surrounding academic success and the value of redefining what it means to “succeed.” From managing the distractions of college life to understanding the significance of setting and negotiating boundaries, this episode offers a comprehensive look at fostering resilience and independence in teenagers. Ann’s insights, enriched by her own family experiences, serve as a guide for parents eager to connect with their teens in more authentic and supportive ways. Listen in to discover strategies that respect and nurture your teenager’s emerging identity while maintaining a safe and supportive environment.

Podcast

Your Teen’s Anxiety: How Chores, Community, and Connection Could Help | Dr. Jodi Aman

Amy Moore, PhD

Worried about your teen’s anxiety? Dr. Jodi Aman, renowned psychotherapist and TEDx speaker, joins Dr. Amy and Sandy on this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast to uncover the root causes behind the escalating anxiety epidemic among teenagers. It’s a bold statement, but modern conveniences might be making things worse. Dr. Aman suggests that the reduction in problem-solving opportunities due to cultural shifts has led to increased negativity and entitlement among teens. She argues that chores, often seen as mundane, are vital in alleviating teen anxiety, instilling resilience, and combating negative thought patterns. By categorizing chores into tedious, challenging, and generous, we examine how each type plays a crucial role in developing essential life skills and when tying chores to allowances might be appropriate.

Teen anxiety, often misunderstood as mere fear, is redefined in our conversation as a spectrum of discomfort triggered by stress hormones. Dr. Aman challenges the misconception of anxiety as a chemical imbalance and talks about the stigma that idea creates. Our discussion also touches on the historical context of anxiety, examining how our biological instincts have evolved to manage stress.

In the final segment, we explore the power of community, activities, and genuine human connections in fostering social engagement and mental well-being. Whether through family involvement in communal activities or even community theater, these experiences are pivotal in building a sense of belonging. We also offer actionable tips to guide teenagers towards a path of self-acceptance and agency. To enhance your understanding further, we present a concise guide, accessible on the author’s website, filled with practical advice for supporting the teens in your life.

Podcast

Surviving the Teen Years: Insights from Amy Betters-Midtvedt

Amy Moore, PhD

On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, we dive into the emotional and practical aspects of parenting teens, focusing on the importance of flexibility, trust, and communication. Dr. Amy and Dr. Jody interview educator, author, and mom of 5 Amy Betters-Midtvedt who highlights the challenges faced by parents as their kids grow, the necessity of establishing boundaries with technology, and the value of teaching effective friendship skills to create healthy social connections.

We discuss being flexible in parenting teenagers, navigating social media and privacy for teens, understanding and coaching friendships among teens, managing household responsibilities collaboratively, creating a bank of trust based on individual needs, and managing the emotions around the transition to an empty nest.

Podcast

Mindset Swaps to Skyrocket Your Joy | Dr. Wendy O’Connor

Amy Moore, PhD

On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy interview Dr. Wendy O’Connor, a Stanford-trained positive psychologist. After facing burnout and the whirlwind of transitioning into motherhood with three children in 15 months, Dr. Wendy transformed her career path and embraced the vibrant world of positive psychology. In this episode, she shares her journey and how she helps women harness self-trust and evidence-based methods to design lives filled with joy and purpose. Explore her unique approach of making “power swaps” to enhance happiness, starting with transforming FOMO into JOMO.

We talk about maintaining harmony in relationships while staying true to your values and priorities. We also discuss strategies to identify what quality time means for you and how to balance these personal needs with the expectations of others. Learn how to break free from the cycle of perpetual agreement, especially for those who struggle with people-pleasing tendencies, and establish boundaries that honor your authentic self without sacrificing connections with loved ones.

Finally, we talk about replacing criticism with curiosity and self-doubt with self-compassion. Learn how to take empowered actions that align with your values and navigate the pitfalls of overthinking.

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