Advertise on podcast: Decoding Learning Differences with Kimberlynn Lavelle

Kids with learning differences are constantly taxed mentally.  They can appear lazy when they’re actually working really hard but at what takes other kids far less effort.   When we’re motivating kids with dyslexia, there’s a lot to consider.

Maybe you’ve seen someone working on a crossword and jumped in, delighted by the challenge of it?   Or maybe you’ve seen someone struggling with opening something or figuring something out and felt compelled to jump in and try to “help”?   Although you may genuinely have wanted to help, you were also likely motivated by the challenge of solving problems.   This is another strategy we can use to motivate our kids.

Whenever my kids are being grumpy and difficult, I’m tempted to blame them for the bad mood I’m in.  However… the truth is usually the opposite.  My bad mood has spread to them.  And even if the reverse is true, I know that my mood can also shape theirs.  I can choose to be joyful and positive and watch as their own moods improve.   I’ve found dance parties to always do the trick for all of us. The same principle is true when we’re trying to motivate our kids to engage in academic tasks.  Our modeling is extremely impactful!

My own kids were complaining that they “HATE writing!” and I knew I needed to go back and listen to my own advice….   We’ll discuss how to motivate kids to enjoy writing and how to change everyone’s perspective on writing.

Not all kids are motivated to read and their parents are often concerned that they’ll always fight reading and avoid reading.    Not all kids will grow up to be avid readers, just like not all kids will grow up to be athletes or musicians or dancers… you get the idea!   AND- we can do some things to make reading more motivating for our kids, to reduce the resistance.

Dr. Paul Johnson’s new memoir, Turtles Can Win: How Learning Differences Taught Me to Run My Own Race and Still Cross the Finish Line, shares his remarkable journey from being a student with undiagnosed learning differences who nearly failed out of school to eventually earning three master's degrees and a doctorate from the University of Southern California. In this interview we discuss: - the book, of course - how labels can shape a child’s identity and future - recognizing learning differences as an adult - the strengths of neurodivergent learners - what it means to “run your own race” - and more! I know that every listener will enjoy this conversation.  I found his parting wisdom especially surprising and something I’m definitely planning to take action on! Check out Dr. Paul R. Johnson at https://turtlescanwin.com/

To continue with the replays around motivation, this week we’re discussing how autonomy can increase motivation.    This might seem like the opposite of last week’s episode in which we discussed how relationships can build motivation.    Both are true and a strong relationship with you can help your child feel confident and motivated in the autonomy you give them.   Listen in to this week’s podcast episode and then let me know your thoughts!

Last week I replayed “Motivation Killers” and now I’ll begin replaying the “what do we do about?” episodes, full of ideas to build motivation and increase your child’s love of learning!   To start us off, listen in to how Motivation impacts relationships!

The start of the school year is here or around the corner, depending on where you live.   Every school year, children often wind up losing more and more of their intrinsic motivation to learn, even while their teachers are putting forth immense effort to engage them and entice them into learning.   This week I’m replaying an old episode.  It’s one of my favorites because besides hearing from numerous people that it was very impactful for them, I know I personally need to reflect and remind myself of the wisdom it contains.   The episode is all about what kills a child’s motivation.  It can feel a bit depressing to consider.  However, there is a lot of beauty and wisdom around motivation that I will be providing in the coming weeks, with more replays from when all of these were new episodes.  (If you can’t wait until next week, go back to season 2)   Listen, take notes, and figure out what changes you’ll be making happen.  Then reach out and let me know!

One thing I often hear discussed is whether a child “needs” a particular accommodation.  Another common discussion is around whether a label is beneficial or harmful to a child.   There is a lot of challenging nuance in both of these.   Listen in to this week’s podcast to hear some of my thoughts on the topic.  Then, hit reply and let me know your thoughts!

How has your summer been going?    Have you checked in on any of those skills your child had to fight extra hard to achieve?  Has there been some “summer slide”?   First, know that “summer slide” is perfectly normal.   Second, listen to this week’s episode to know what to do about it.   Then, let me know what you need to be more successful!

If you’re wondering how to best educate your child, be sure to listen to this episode!  There is no one-size-fits-all approach to education, but there are many more options than you may have realized.

In this conversation, we talk with Dr. Norrine Russell, the Founder & CEO of Russell Coaching & Consulting.  We go into ADHD, Autism, AuDHD, as well as technology's role in education and SO much more! Russell Coaching for Students, a nationally recognized practice supporting complex learners—uses an innovative method of coaching for complex students, including those who have ADHD, Autism, or Anxiety; and those with learning differences.Since 2009, her approach has helped thousands of students thrive, while also guiding parents and neurodiverse adults. With over 20 years of experience in youth development and parenting education, Dr. Russell blends deep expertise in psychology, education, and positive parenting philosophies. Check out RussellCoaching.com and use coupon code: RUSSELL26

This week we're chatting with Jonathan Treiber of Skil-Care on the podcast.  We discuss how a child’s environment may impact their learning and what we can do for these students to better support them.   Although Skil-Care is a company selling products, they also want you to view them as a resource to learn more about how to best support your kids with sensory needs.   Jonathan Treiber, CEO of Skil-Care (LinkedIn) website: https://skil-care.com/