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In this episode, Dr. Inyang Takon talks to Dr. Jess Morgan, a former NHS paediatrician who retrained as a primary school teacher and is also a mum of two girls. Jess has seen children in the clinic, in the classroom and at home, and she shares clear, practical ways to help autistic and ADHD children understand their changing bodies, feel safe and ask for help. In this episode you will learn: What is happening in your child's body and brain during puberty, and why big feelings arrive before the ability to "put the brakes on"Why waiting to talk about puberty can leave neurodivergent children more vulnerable, and how to start earlySimple, hands-on ways to prepare your child for periods, shaving and other changes before they happenWhy a child can seem fine at school and fall apart at home, and when it is time to ask for supportHow friendships and unwritten social rules change in the teenage yearsHow schools can teach puberty in a way that is clear, concrete and accessibleHow to teach public and private, consent and asking for help without fear or shameThree things parents and teachers can start doing today00:00 Why puberty can feel louder for neurodivergent children 02:52 Meet Dr. Jess Morgan: from paediatrician to primary school teacher 05:54 What the classroom taught her that the clinic could not 09:56 What happens in the body and the brain during puberty 13:09 Big feelings, no brakes: the teenage brain explained 15:30 Risk-taking and pushing boundaries 18:51 Why you should not wait to talk about puberty 29:16 When families are labelled "difficult": behaviour as communication 31:51 Friendships, unwritten social rules and identity 36:48 How schools can teach puberty better 45:36 Three things parents and teachers can start doing now 48:59 Where to find Dr. Jess Morgan About Dr. Jess Morgan: Jess is a former clinical paediatrician with over a decade of experience working in the NHS, where she developed a deep understanding of what children and families face in healthcare systems. She witnessed children struggling, families desperate for support, and systems that couldn't quite connect the dots. In 2019, she made an unconventional decision to retrain as a primary school teacher. That transition showed Jess the other side of the picture. She came to understand the pressures educators carry, the expectations placed on schools and the reality of parents having to bridge the gap between healthcare and education themselves. Seeing both sides shaped her belief that meaningful change happens when we bring different perspectives together, rather than working in isolation. Resources mentioned: NSPCC guidance on responding to sexualised behaviour in children, using a "traffic light" approach [confirm exact name and link with Jess]Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health data on children and young people attending A&E with mental health concernsBrené Brown's work on listening to and believing other people's experiencesSocial stories, visual timetables and public/private sorting games for teaching puberty, privacy and consentChildren's books and BBC dramas with neurodivergent main charactersConnect with Dr. Jess Morgan: Website: https://drjessmorgan.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-morgan-832177241/  Instagram: @jessmorgan_ Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

In this episode, Dr. Inyang Takon talks with John Greenall, Consultant Community Paediatrician, coach, father of four and author of Connected Dad. Together they look at why dads can seem distant or reluctant during an autism or ADHD assessment, what is really going on underneath, and how parents and clinicians can bring dads back into the picture. In this episode you will learn: Why dads often see their child's difficulties differently, and why that view still mattersWhat John means by "fatherhood is an identity before it's a performance"John's three-step framework for dads: calm, confidence, connectionHow to handle disagreements as parents: back each other publicly, talk it through privatelyWhy looking after your relationship as a couple is good for your childThe difference between being given advice and being coached to find your own answersPractical ways clinicians can include dads before, during and after an assessment ABOUT JOHN GREENALL  John Greenall is a Consultant Community Paediatrician, author, coach and father of four, with over 20 years' experience working with children, young people and families. His clinical experience spans neonatal, acute and community paediatrics, with particular interests in neurodevelopment, behaviour, safeguarding and family stress. Alongside his clinical work, John writes and speaks about fatherhood, parenting and family life, particularly where neurodiversity and additional needs make family life more complex. His book, Connected Dad, helps fathers become calmer, more confident and more connected with their children. TIMESTAMPS 00:56 Introduction 01:58 Meet John Greenall 03:20 The dad who fainted: how Connected Dad began 06:28 When dads are missing from the clinic room 09:52 Fatherhood is an identity before it's a performance 12:13 Calm, confidence, connection 14:56 When parents disagree about what they are seeing 17:27 Looking after yourselves and your relationship 19:37 Coaching versus advice: you are the expert on your child 22:38 One or two questions clinicians can ask 24:10 Why dads are reluctant to ask for help 26:23 How clinicians can include dads in the assessment 30:08 John's book, Connected Dad 32:14 What's next: While You Wait 34:41 Where to find John 35:10 A message to dads: we do see you RESOURCES MENTIONED Connected Dad by John Greenall Are you a dad (or know a dad) who wants to make a difference but isn't always sure how? Rooted in real stories, clinical experience and evidence-based insight, 'Connected Dad' gives practical tools and a clear framework to help dads grow in confidence and strengthen their relationship with their child as they grow. Get the book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Connected-Dad-Becoming-Father-PublishU/dp/1917829906 Also mentioned: While You Wait, John's forthcoming co-authored book with Jessica Kingsley Publishers, for families waiting for an ADHD or autism assessment Dr. Takon's Waiting Well series for parents - find it on www.braindiverse.org CONNECT WITH JOHN GREENALL  Website: https://www.connected-dad.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjohngreenall/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tallmedic/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.greenall.357 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@johngreenall9461 Connected Dad on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Connected-Dad-Becoming-Father-PublishU/dp/1917829906 Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

Doctors told Jeaneen Tang her son might never walk or talk. He is 12 now, and he loves to sing and hold a conversation. Jeaneen is a speech-language pathologist with 25 years of experience and the author of Play Dumb and Sabotage. In this conversation with Dr Inyang Takon, she shares the simple, everyday strategies parents can start using at home, especially while they are waiting to see a speech therapist. You will hear what to expect from your child's speech from birth to three, the signs that mean it is time to ask for help, how snack time and bubbles can become daily speech practice and more. Timestamps: 00:56 Welcome and introduction 02:05 Jeaneen's journey: Hawaii, Los Angeles and 25 years in speech therapy 03:25 Why late talkers often have very caring parents 04:16 Her son's fall, brain bleed and stroke 05:02 How he is doing today, and how music helps his language 06:45 Turning every interaction into speech practice 09:13 Long waiting lists and missed opportunities 10:32 "You don't know what you don't know": why parents wait 15:24 Speech milestones from birth to three, and red flags 20:39 What early intervention looks like: structured play 24:50 Don't ask a yes/no question unless you will honour the "no" 28:42 What to do while you wait: choices, snack time and bubbles 34:47 The progress children make when parents are involved 38:17 Late talker or something more? 40:14 The book: Play Dumb and Sabotage 45:27 Where to find the book and contact Jeaneen 47:39 Jeaneen's final message: don't be afraid to ask for help Bio: Jeaneen Tang, speech-language pathologist and mother of a special needs child. Along with her over 24 years of experience working with children and adults with neurodiversity, she also has an 13 year old son who is neurodivergent. He suffered a traumatic brain injury and stroke at 13 months old. Her personal and professional relationship with this amazing population has forever changed her. She hopes to change their world too.  Resources She recently published her first book called PLAY DUMB & SABOTAGE. It addresses early language development and is meant to be helpful for parents, caregivers, and educators to work with young children and hopefully decrease the number of children needing speech therapy. Through preventative training, she believes we can achieve success and raise confident communicators.  IG personal: @jt808 IG business: @playdumbandsabotage https://www.playdumbandsabotage.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeaneen-tang-707a6730 Her Book: Play Dumb & Sabotage: Mindfully under-anticipating the child’s needs and creating opportunities to practice language  Check it out on Amazon: https://a.co/d/8WgnAsP This episode is for general information and does not replace advice from your own health professional. If you are worried about your child's speech, please ask for a referral. Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

In this episode, Lawrence talks with Dr. Inyang Takon about what a late autism diagnosis looked like from the inside, why cultural and faith-community stigma can delay families getting support, four years of therapy and what actually changed for him, and the practical, no-jargon advice he now gives teens and parents navigating similar struggles. Diagnosed with autism at 15, bullied through school, and later dealing with an abusive parent, Lawrence knows what it feels like to be a teenager who's struggling and doesn't know why. Now 20, he's a public speaker who helps other teens and young adults work through mental health challenges and low self-worth — using everything he learned getting through his own. You'll learn: What it's like to grow up autistic and undiagnosed, and why late diagnosis is commonHow cultural and faith-based stigma can affect whether families seek assessment and supportThe turning point that shifted Lawrence from surviving to healingSimple, repeatable tools Lawrence teaches teens for managing difficult emotionsWhat parents can do to support a struggling teen — starting with their own wellbeing first Timestamps 00:00 — Lawrence’s story: autism, bullying, and mental health struggles 02:12 — Receiving an autism diagnosis at 15 and missing early support 12:13 — Family trauma, therapy, and beginning the recovery process 17:05 — The turning point: taking responsibility for getting better 21:34 — Practical steps for improving mental health one day at a time 30:42 — Why autistic young people may struggle to express their feelings 41:04 — Advice for parents supporting a child through a difficult period About the guest: Lawrence C. Harris is a youth speaker and author who helps students handle difficult emotions, make better decisions, and prepare for life after high school. He has spoken to thousands of students through school assemblies, workshops, conferences, podcasts, and virtual events. His presentations give students specific strategies for calming themselves during stressful situations, working through conflict, challenging negative beliefs, building confidence in their ability to succeed academically, and turning long-term goals into actionable plans.  He began sharing what he'd learned on YouTube at 16 and now speaks in schools and organizations across the country. Resources: The Story of Your Life (Journal): This 111-day journal is for anyone who feels stuck, overthinks everything, struggles with confidence, or knows they want more out of life but doesn’t know where to start.  https://www.lawrencecharris.com/shop/e5cbad63-f80b-42c1-885d-7d8d9982d8d5 Connect with Lawrence: Website: https://www.lawrencecharris.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawrencec.empowers  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@lawrencecempowers TikTok: Lawrence C Empowers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-harris-8b0177324/ Speaking/podcast enquiries: [email protected] Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

His mother watched her sister lose the ability to speak —  Forty years later, that story is a school that's changed 700 lives annually In this episode, Dr. Inyang Takon sits down with Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman, licensed psychologist and Chief Operating Officer of Tiegerman, a life-cycle agency serving children and adults from age 3 through adulthood on Long Island, New York. They cover how families get admitted through the IEP and CSE process, why Tiegerman staffs two certified teachers per 12-student classroom, what 20 speech-language pathologists for 130 children actually looks like in practice, how transition planning works from preschool through the adult services side, and the story of the aunt whose traumatic brain injury sparked it all. Parents and educators navigating a neurodevelopmental diagnosis — or wondering what happens after a specialist placement ends — will find a genuinely hopeful, practical picture of what a fully joined-up system can look like. cation Department, and also runs a private psychology practice in Syosset, NY. Timestamps: 00:00 — Introduction to Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman and the episode 04:39 — The family story behind the founding of Tiegerman School 06:35 — Supporting children with speech, language, autism, ADHD, and learning needs 16:33 — Why language is the foundation of learning 17:33 — Tiegerman’s intensive classroom staffing and therapy model 33:13 — Preparing families for educational and life transitions 43:53 — “Teaching the extraordinary”: Tiegerman’s mission and long-term impact Guest bio  Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman, Psy.D., is Chief Operating Officer of Tiegerman Schools and Tiegerman Community Services, a family of non-public, state-approved schools and community services in the New York City Metropolitan Area.  They offer residential, vocational, and day rehabilitation programs. He has spent most of his career at Tiegerman — advancing from School Psychologist to Principal to Program Director before becoming COO in January 2023. Dr Tiegerman carries forward the organization's mission of "teaching the extraordinary" by focusing on early identification of language and autism spectrum disorders.  He holds a bachelor's in Psychology from the University of Maryland and a master's, Certificate of Advanced Studies, and Doctorate in School Community Psychology from Hofstra University. He is a licensed School Building Leader and School Psychologist certified by the New York State Education Department, and also runs a private psychology practice in Syosset, NY. Connect with Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman  Website: https://tiegerman.org Leadership team: https://tiegerman.org/executive-team/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiegermanschools/ LinkedIn (Tiegerman): https://www.linkedin.com/company/tiegerman85/ LinkedIn (Dr. Tiegerman): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-tiegerman-01473b17/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tiegerman85 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Tiegerman85 Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon (NEW!) Resource Library: https://braindiverse.org Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

Summary: Ruth Ajayi, Patient Advocate, Public Speaker, and Non-Executive Director, joins Dr. Inyang Takon to talk about how a traumatic maternity experience sixteen years ago launched a career spent bringing patient and carer voices into rooms of power. Ruth explains the difference between consultation and co-production, how she built community engagement from scratch by walking into GP surgeries and hair salons rather than waiting for people to come to her, and what she looks for as a patient and public voice partner on NHS England's Responsible Adoption of AI Committee — including whether new tools widen health inequalities or advance health equity. She closes with direct advice for parents of neurodivergent children: find your tribe, and don't be afraid to be labelled a "difficult patient." Key Takeaways for Parents and Teachers: Genuine patient engagement means going out into the community — GP surgeries, schools, local businesses — not expecting people to come to you."Co-production" goes further than consultation: co-planning, co-designing, co-evaluating, and co-delivering alongside the people a service is built for.New tools and services (including AI) need to be tested against whether they widen or narrow health inequalities, especially for people who are less digitally connected or have complex needs.One small, human gesture — like warming up gel before a scan — can make a lasting difference to a patient's experience.Parents of neurodivergent children should find community with others who understand, and shouldn't fear being seen as a "difficult" advocate for their child — persistence can be lifesaving.Resources Mentioned: Maternity Services Liaison Committee (MSLC), now Maternity Voices PartnershipNHS England's Responsible Adoption of AI CommitteeConnect with Ruth Ajayi: Website: https://www.ruthajayi.co.uk/ Self Advocacy Guides: https://www.ruthajayi.co.uk/home LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-ajayi-storytoaction/ https://brandangelz.com/creator/LadyRuth   Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

Antonia Rathbun Lindsey, an internationally recognised art therapist and FASD specialist with 40 years of experience, joins Dr. Inyang Takon to reframe how we understand behaviour in children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Drawing on her own experience as a late-deafened clinician who learned to adapt her own body, and her years working within an Afrocentric family reunification programme, Antonia explains why alcohol exposure in pregnancy disrupts neuronal development, why children with FASD often can't "read" their own distress (interoception), and why what looks like defiance is frequently a nervous system stuck at threshold — what she calls a "bristle attack." She shares concrete, play-based strategies for helping children regulate and shows why "workarounds, not stops" changes outcomes for families. Key Takeaways for Parents and Teachers: FASD is caused by alcohol exposure in pregnancy — it's the most preventable cause of intellectual disability, and no amount of alcohol during pregnancy is considered safe.Children with FASD often struggle with interoception — the ability to sense and signal their own overwhelm — so meltdowns are often prolonged "episodes," not typical tantrums.Labels like "aggressive" or "manipulative" often describe survival responses to sensory overload, not the child's character.Physical, sensory-based interventions (deep pressure, movement, rhythm) can help a dysregulated child re-organise faster than verbal redirection alone.Supporting these families means acknowledging intergenerational trauma and cultural context — not just clinical symptoms.Resources Mentioned: Parenting Your Porcupine: A Toolkit for Children with FASD, Other Drug Effects, and Neurodiversity by Antonia Rathbun Lindsey — available via Books.by (English, French; German translation in progress)The Lewis ProtocolSAMHSA's FAS Centers for ExcellenceCanada's British Columbia Ministry of EducationState of Alaska Drug & Alcohol ServicesConnect with Dr. Inyang Takon: Website: www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents: www.school-doctor.com Questions? Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: Connect with Dr. Takon Subscribe: Ask a Developmental Paediatrician Read: Braindiverse Substack Guest enquiries: [email protected] Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

Summary Dinalynn Rosenbush, a 30-year speech-language pathologist and creator of the top 1.5% podcast The Language of Play, joins Dr. Inyang Takon to reframe how parents think about speech and language delay. They cover the misconception that only a speech pathologist can move the needle (parents' time and connection matter just as much), why signing supports rather than delays speech, why "play" is not a break from language-building but the mechanism of it, and practical, low-cost strategies parents can use the moment they notice a concern — rather than waiting for an assessment. Key Takeaways for Parents and Teachers: Don't wait for a diagnosis or a waiting-list appointment to start supporting a child's language — early, everyday interaction matters more than parents often realise.Signing does not delay speech — it gives children access to language through larger muscle groups before fine motor speech control develops, and children naturally transition to spoken words as they become easier.Parents have something a therapist can't replicate: frequency, time, and connection — pairing that with the right strategies can accelerate progress significantly."Play" isn't just toys — sensory exploration (like mashed potatoes at dinner) is also play, and redirecting rather than shutting it down protects the learning opportunity.If you're on a waiting list, don't just wait — small, consistent daily strategies can start making a difference immediately.Resources Mentioned: The Language of Play podcastSmall Steps in Speech (Amanda Barati) — speech therapy scholarship programConnect with Dinalynn Rosenbush: Website: https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-language-of-play-kids-that-listen-speech/id1661880535 Freebie — 5 Ways to Get Kids to Listen Better: https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/5-ways-to-get-kids-to-listen-better LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinalynn-rosenbush-b5750854/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557381098806 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dinalynnrosenbush/ Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents: https://www.school-doctor.com Questions? Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paediatrician-co-founder-school-doctor-25a0b551/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Guest enquiries: [email protected] Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

Summary: Dr. Sudipta Sen, a consultant paediatrician with over 33 years of experience across NHS and private practice, joins Dr. Inyang Takon to unpack what it really means to "see the whole child." Drawing on a career that began at one of Kolkata's busiest hospitals and was shaped by a formative encounter with Mother Teresa, Dr. Sen explains why she pushes back against rigid referral criteria, how she builds trust with a child in the first moments of an appointment, and why a diagnosis should open a roadmap for a child — not define them. Key Takeaways for Parents and Teachers: A diagnosis explains a behaviour; it's the whole-child view that explains the person — don't let a label become the whole story.Children shouldn't have to "fit" narrow referral criteria to get support — if something isn't working for a child, it's worth pursuing even without a tidy diagnostic fit.Teachers and parents should assume good faith in each other: a child who "looks fine" at school may be dysregulated at home, and vice versa — neither setting invalidates the other.Trust-building starts small — Dr. Sen gets down to a child's eye level, shares something personal about herself, and treats the child (not just the parent) as the main person in the room.Burnout in this field is real; Dr. Sen's advice to fellow clinicians is to keep learning, find mentors, and hold onto interests outside of medicine.Resources Mentioned: Missionaries of Charity (Mother Teresa's organisation)NRS Medical College, Kolkata, IndiaADHD EmbraceHounslow ADHD/learning disability pilot clinicConnect with Dr. Inyang Takon: Website: www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents: www.school-doctor.com Questions? Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: Connect with Dr. Takon Subscribe: Ask a Developmental Paediatrician Read: Braindiverse Substack Guest enquiries: [email protected] Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

John Fela describes himself as a “Swiss Army knife of disability advocacy”—and it is an unusually accurate description. He brings nearly 20 years in education, experience as a teacher, school leader and job coach, work with faith-based and non-faith-based disability organisations, and years spent creating spaces for fathers of disabled children. Running through all of it is his lived experience of raising Christopher, his nonverbal autistic son, from diagnosis into adulthood. That breadth matters because this episode is not simply the story of one father raising an autistic child. It is about the much bigger question that begins after diagnosis: how do you build a life? Dr Inyang Takon and John explore the long journey through therapies, education, residential care, family pressures, adult transition, employment and community. They consider what happens when services are built around individual stages, but families must somehow carry the whole journey—and what a meaningful future looks like for a young person who will always need substantial support. John’s contribution to the wider disability conversation is this whole-life perspective. He challenges one-size-fits-all interventions, brings fathers’ often-unspoken experiences into view and argues that adulthood must offer more than somewhere to go during the day. Disabled people need purpose, relationships and meaningful ways to contribute. His message to schools, professionals, employers, churches and communities is equally clear: inclusion may provide access, but acceptance creates belonging. The real goal is not simply to make room for disabled people, but to recognise them as valued members of the community whose lives, interests and contributions matter. IN THIS EPISODE How John’s experience as an educator, parent, job coach and advocate shaped his workChristopher’s early development and journey to an autism diagnosisWhy no single therapy or intervention will work for every autistic childThe importance of the relationship between a child and the professional supporting themThe financial and emotional risks of chasing every promised treatmentMaking the difficult decision to place a child in residential educationPreparing a young person with substantial support needs for adulthoodCreating meaningful employment around a person’s abilities and interestsWhy fathers’ experiences are often missing from disability conversationsHow grief, shame and the desire to “fix” things can cause some fathers to withdrawCreating support spaces where dads can participate without being forced to open upThe effect of disability on marriage, relationships and the wider familyThe role of faith, counselling and community in helping families remain resilientWhy inclusion is only a first step towards acceptance and belongingBuilding a society in which disabled people are known, valued and able to contributeCHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:08 Meet John Fela: the “Swiss Army knife” of disability advocacy 05:21 Christopher’s early development and diagnosis 10:33 Navigating anxiety, changing needs and family support 14:15 Why there is no one-size-fits-all autism therapy 23:00 When professional knowledge meets lived parenting experience 26:42 Supporting parents and protecting family relationships 30:07 Transitioning from school into adulthood 31:06 Employment, purpose and creating the right role 40:02 The missing voices of fathers 41:17 Why some fathers retreat into work or silence 45:57 Creating support spaces that fathers will use 50:01 Sometimes a dad only needs one person who understands 53:57 Marriage, divorce, faith and family resilience 1:00:59 The story behind Faith Like My Father 1:05:59 Why inclusion is not the same as acceptance 1:11:11 Organisations and resources for disability families 1:15:14 Building a meaningful future for Christopher ABOUT JOHN FELA John Fela (M.Ed.) is a national disability advocate working with both faith-based and non-faith-based disability organisations. He previously worked for Joni and Friends, a global disability ministry. Before moving into disability advocacy, John spent almost 20 years in education, serving as a classroom teacher in public and private schools, mentor teacher and school director. He holds certifications in Montessori and traditional teaching methods and has trained in several specialisms, including ESL and Special Education. John is a public speaker, contributor to several disability advocacy platforms and author of Faith Like My Father, a memoir about his journey as a parent of disability. He lives in Lyons, Illinois, with his wife, Faith, and is father to his son Christopher, who is autistic and nonverbal. CONNECT WITH JOHN Website: https://www.johnfela.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnsspecialneedsblog/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_fela_1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-fela-0b839920/ X: https://x.com/jfelageller74 BOOK Faith Like My Father: https://www.ballastbooks.com/ballast-bookstore/faith-like-my-father RESOURCES MENTIONED Joni and Friends A global Christian disability organisation providing practical support, resources and disability-ministry training. https://joniandfriends.org/ Special Fathers Network A dad-to-dad mentoring network for fathers raising children with disabilities. https://21stcenturydads.org/about-the-special-fathers-network/ Key Ministry Resources and training for churches seeking to welcome and support individuals and families affected by disability, mental health challenges and trauma. https://keyministry.org/ If this conversation helped you, subscribe to Early Intervention Matters, leave a review or comment, and share the episode with a parent, educator, faith leader, employer or disability professional who would value it. Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

What happens when a child experiences seizures, tics, weakness, paralysis or persistent pain—but hospital tests do not reveal an identifiable medical cause? That does not mean the symptoms are imagined or that nothing is wrong. In this episode of Early Intervention Matters, Dr Inyang Takon speaks with child and adolescent psychotherapist Sagal Hassan about Functional Neurological Disorder, commonly known as FND, and related functional somatic symptoms in children and young people. FND can be frightening and confusing for children, families, schools and healthcare professionals. A young person may experience real, disabling physical symptoms while repeatedly being told that their medical tests are normal. This can leave families feeling dismissed, anxious and unsure about what to do next. Sagal explains the important relationship between physical symptoms, emotional wellbeing and chronic stress—without reducing the condition to being “all in the child’s mind.” She and Dr Takon also explore why adolescence can be a particularly vulnerable time and the crossover between FND, neurodivergence, anxiety and school attendance difficulties. In this episode, we discuss: * How FND can present in children and teenagers * Seizure-like episodes, tics, weakness, paralysis, fatigue and persistent pain * Why normal test results do not mean that the symptoms are not real * The relationship between physical symptoms and emotional wellbeing * FND in autistic and ADHD young people * Why some young people suppress or struggle to identify emotional distress * The impact of repeated medical investigations and feeling disbelieved * Why psychological support should be introduced early * Supporting children who are struggling to attend school * The importance of flexibility, routine and maintaining some normality * How parents, schools and healthcare professionals can work together * What can help a child or young person move towards recovery ABOUT SAGAL HASSAN Sagal Hassan is an ACP-registered Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist. She works with children, teenagers and families experiencing neurodivergence, chronic health conditions, functional symptoms, school attendance difficulties and complex emotional challenges. She works at The Soke in Chelsea and also has an independent child and adolescent psychotherapy practice. CONNECT WITH SAGAL Website: https://www.sagalhassan.co.uk/ Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist & Consultant Sagal Hassan Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy Highgate | Online | Harley Street E: [email protected] W: sagalhassan.co.uk LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sagalhassan ________________________________________________________________ ABOUT EARLY INTERVENTION MATTERS: Hosted by Dr. Inyang Takon, Consultant Neurodevelopmental Paediatrician, UK. New episodes weekly. Website: www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents www.school-doctor.com Questions? Email Us at [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected] Connect on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/   Substack Articles: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ (Ask a Developmental Paediatrician)  and https://braindiverse.substack.com/ _____________________________________________________________ If you found this conversation helpful, subscribe to Early Intervention Matters, leave a review or comment, and share the episode with another parent, educator or healthcare professional. This episode is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

Host: Dr. Inyang Takon Guest: Dr. Norrine Russell Podcast: Early Intervention Matters ABOUT THIS EPISODE In this episode, Dr. Inyang Takon sits down with Dr. Norrine Russell, founder of Russell Coaching for Students, to unpack a critical distinction that many parents and professionals miss: the difference between coaching and therapy for neurodiverse children. If you’ve ever wondered whether your child needs therapy, coaching or something else entirely, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance and a practical framework for thinking about executive functioning and skill development. “Pills don’t give skills” is more than a catchy phrase—it’s a philosophy that has shaped Dr. Russell’s work with hundreds of neurodiverse students and their families. Whether your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, autism or a learning difference—or you’re navigating concerns and wondering where to turn—this episode will help you understand what kind of support can make a meaningful difference. WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE • Dr. Russell’s journey—from nonprofit youth work and academia to founding Russell Coaching in 2009, and how raising two neurologically atypical children shaped her approach. • Coaching versus therapy—the fundamental distinction: coaching focuses on building skills rather than treating mental health diagnoses, and why understanding this matters when choosing support. • Executive functioning explained—what it means to be “the CEO of your life” and why these skills are essential for self-regulation, independence and long-term success. • The role of medication—how medication can reduce symptoms but does not teach skills, and why medication and coaching may both be needed while serving fundamentally different purposes. • When to seek an evaluation for ADHD or autism—practical guidance on recognising the signs and advocating for early assessment. • Parent advocacy and empowerment—why parents should trust their instincts, advocate for early evaluation and recognise the relief that can come from understanding their child’s neurodiversity. • The age range for coaching—when coaching support can begin and how it evolves as children grow. ABOUT THE GUEST Dr. Norrine Russell is the founder of Russell Coaching for Students, based in Tampa, Florida. With a background in youth development and education, and years of work at nonprofits serving children and families, Dr. Russell built her coaching practice around a simple but powerful idea: smart, capable children are too often written off by schools, paediatricians and sometimes their own parents—when what they actually need is a coach who understands how their brain works. Founded in 2009, Russell Coaching provides executive functioning coaching for neurodiverse students with ADHD, autism, anxiety and learning differences. Dr. Russell has held faculty positions at the University of Tampa, Eckerd College, Sweet Briar College and the University of Minnesota–Morris. She also consults with schools across the United States on supporting atypical learners. She is the parent of two neurologically atypical children—an experience that deeply informs her coaching philosophy. RESOURCES MENTIONED Russell Coaching Dr. Norrine Russell’s executive functioning coaching practice for neurodiverse students. Website: http://russellcoaching.com Email: [email protected] Office: 212-716-1161 Direct: 813-508-2367 CONNECT WITH DR. NORRINE RUSSELL Website: http://russellcoaching.com Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/norrine-russell-820545184/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellcoachingllc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drnorrinerussell YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMIal1N_IkKN1a87Sdx_g5w SUBSCRIBE, REVIEW AND SHARE If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to Early Intervention Matters wherever you get your podcasts, leave a review and share it with another parent, educator or professional who might benefit. Your support helps us reach more families navigating the neurodiversity journey. _____________________________________________________________________ ABOUT EARLY INTERVENTION MATTERS: Hosted by Dr. Inyang Takon, Consultant Neurodevelopmental Paediatrician, UK. New episodes weekly. Website: www.drtakon.com Connect on LinkedIn:   / inyang-takon-paediatrician-co-founder-scho...  Subscribe to Ask a Developmental Paediatrician: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read our SUBSTACK Articles:  https://braindiverse.substack.com/ for Short Simple Smart tips for parents, health professionals  Guest enquiries: [email protected] __________________________________________________________________________ DISCLAIMER This episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or clinical advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your child’s specific needs. Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

In this episode of Early Intervention Matters, Dr. Inyang Takon welcomes Craig Parks, founder of Parenting Harmony, camp director and children’s musician with more than 30 years of experience working with children and families. Craig shares his personal journey of raising a son on the autism spectrum and explores how music, simple rituals and everyday presence can help parents build stronger connections with their children.  He also introduces the Parenting A to E Method, a practical framework designed to help parents reduce stress and create more joy at home. From using music as a tool for communication to finding screen-free ways to turn ordinary moments into meaningful memories, Craig offers warm, practical ideas that families can begin using straight away. In this episode, we discuss: Craig’s journey from camp director to parenting coach and advocateThe role of music in child development and communicationUsing music to connect with neurodiverse childrenThe Parenting A to E MethodReducing parenting stress and building resilienceCreating simple family ritualsScreen-free ways to encourage play and connectionCelebrating each child’s individualityWhy thousands of small moments can matter more than a handful of big eventsAbout Craig Parks Craig Parks is the founder of Parenting Harmony. He is a camp director, children’s musician, speaker and father of two, including a son on the autism spectrum. Craig has spent more than 30 years working with children and families. Through the Parenting A to E Method, original music and play-based strategies, he helps parents reduce stress, strengthen connection and create everyday moments their children will remember. Resources and contact Parenting Harmony website (books, courses, blogs, and more can be found at: https://www.parentingharmony.com Email Craig: [email protected] If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Early Intervention Matters on your favourite podcast platform, leave a review and share it with a parent who might find it helpful. Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

Dr. Inyang Takon and Dr. Gbemisola Boyede discuss the systemic, cultural, and resource barriers facing neurodivergent children and their families in Nigeria and across Africa, and the grassroots innovations, advocacy, and community-led approaches creating real progress. In Nigeria, a mother whose two-year-old isn't speaking is likely to hear: "He's a boy, he'll talk when he's ready." Then she visits her mother: "This child needs prayers." Then the pastor: "There's a spirit on this child." And in the middle of all of it, she is left entirely alone. This is not a rare story. It happens every day - in Lagos, in Abuja, in Kano, in Port Harcourt, and in Nigerian diaspora homes around the world. In this episode, Dr. Inyang Takon is joined by Dr. Gbemisola Boyede - neurodevelopmental paediatrician, founder of Ask The Paediatricians Foundation, and NHS Community Paediatrician - for a rich, honest, and deeply hopeful conversation about what it means to raise a neurodivergent child in Nigeria today.  KEY TAKEAWAYS: Stigma and religious misattribution remain major barriers to neurodivergent diagnosis and support in Nigeria. Families are often told to pray rather than seek assessment.The shortage of trained professionals, diagnostic tools, therapy services, and training schools is acute. Many families have no viable pathway to support even when they seek it.Grassroots innovation is making a difference: online communities, social media outreach, and NGOs like Ask The Paediatricians Foundation are reaching parents directly in ways that clinic systems cannot.Technology and telehealth offer significant potential in low-resource settings  but require deliberate investment and planning to implement at scale.Faith communities are slowly becoming more accepting of neurodiversity, and this shift is important. Clinicians and advocates working alongside religious leaders can accelerate change.Government policy must eventually catch up. Dr. Boyede calls for long-term planning that includes professional training pipelines, legislation, and representation for neurodivergent children in national health policy.Two Nigerian-trained UK-based paediatricians both carry a sense of responsibility to the children they left behind. That commitment to reach back across distance and difference is at the heart of this episode. ABOUT DR. GBEMISOLA BOYEDE: Dr. Gbemisola Boyede is a Consultant Neurodevelopmental Paediatrician and Founder/CEO of Ask The Paediatricians Foundation: a registered NGO started as a Facebook group in 2015 to reduce preventable child deaths in Nigeria. She completed her MPhil in Developmental Paediatrics with distinction at the University of Cape Town, and currently works as a Community Paediatrician with Wye Valley NHS Trust in the UK. CONNECT WITH DR. BOYEDE: Website: https://www.askthepaediatricians.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/askthepaed /  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askthepaediatricians/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/gbemisola-boyede LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ask-the-paediatricians-foundation/YouTube (ATP TV): https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgivTyQm3zz5cwm-f7pmmIw ABOUT EARLY INTERVENTION MATTERS: Hosted by Dr. Inyang Takon, Consultant Neurodevelopmental Paediatrician, UK. New episodes weekly. Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]

Dr. Inyang Takon and Carol Waldman discuss the critical gaps in support for autistic young adults transitioning from education to employment and independence, and how parent advocacy and legislation can help close them. Every parent of a neurodivergent child knows the dread of what's coming: the moment at eighteen when the services, the support structures, and the familiar systems suddenly fall away.  What happens next is often left to parents to figure out alone. In this episode, Dr. Inyang Takon speaks with Carol Waldman, founder of The Waldman Way and neurodiversity advocate, whose son Andrew was diagnosed with autism aged five. Carol takes us through 24 years of navigating IEPs, schools, therapies, setbacks, and ultimately, Andrew's graduation with honours from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.  Now she's turning that hard-won experience into legislation and resources for families who come after her. KEY TAKEAWAYS: The 'transition cliff' is real: when young people with autism turn 18, many support services disappear almost overnight, leaving families to navigate adulthood largely alone.Early and consistent advocacy through IEPs, meetings, and pushing for the right environment makes a measurable difference to long-term outcomes.Inclusion matters. Keeping neurodivergent children involved in everyday social experiences - camps, travel, community life builds resilience and social capability over time.The employment gap for autistic adults is a systemic failure, not a personal one. Legislation and employer education are essential levers for change.Parents do not have to wait for systems to catch up. Carol's experience shows that community-building, resource creation, and advocacy can all happen at the same time.It is not as lonely as it once was. Social media, podcasts like this one, and online communities have transformed what support is available to parents - but many still don't know where to look.Lived experience, combined with professional or civic skills, is a powerful tool for advocacy. Carol's background in politics amplified what she could achieve for her son and others. ABOUT CAROL WALDMAN: Carol Waldman is a mother of three and the Founder of The Waldman Way, a platform supporting neurodivergent young adults as they navigate the transition from education to employment and independence. She helped pass neurodiversity hiring legislation through the San Diego County Board of Supervisors in 2022 and is an elected Executive Board Member and State Delegate to the California Democratic Party.  She is also writing her memoir about raising Andrew. CONNECT WITH CAROL: Website: https://www.thewaldmanway.org/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/carol-waldman-5b390618 Instagram: @thewaldmanway Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583431180112 ABOUT EARLY INTERVENTION MATTERS: Hosted by Dr. Inyang Takon, Consultant Neurodevelopmental Paediatrician, UK. New episodes weekly. Support the show Resources & Connect with Dr. Inyang Takon: (NEW!): https://braindiverse.org  A Resource Library of tools, tips, tutorials, Apps & Training for Parents, Teachers and Health Professionals Other links: Website: https://www.drtakon.com General Information for Parents and Teachers: https://www.school-doctor.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/inyang-takon-paeds/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/early_interventionmatters/ Subscribe: https://neuropaeddoc.substack.com/ Read: https://braindiverse.substack.com/ Questions? Email: [email protected] Guest enquiries: [email protected]