Autistic and ADHD Kids Parenting Strategies: Every Brain is Different

Samantha Foote, Lauren Ross
  • 5.0 (30)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Every Brain is Different, the podcast designed for parents raising kids with Autism, ADHD, and other neurodiverse conditions. Discover practical parenting strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories that highlight the strengths and challenges of neurodivergent individuals. Join us to connect with a supportive community of parents, gain tools to help your child thrive, and celebrate the unique ways every brain works. If you're looking for inspiration, effective parenting strategies, or simply a sense of connection, tune into Every Brain is Different and join a community that truly understands. Website: www.everybrainisdifferent.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent TikTok: www.tiktok.com/everybrainsidifferent YouTube: www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

  1. Building a Sustainable New Year for Your Neurodivergent Family | Ep. 146

    5D AGO

    Building a Sustainable New Year for Your Neurodivergent Family | Ep. 146

    In this final episode of the year, Samantha and Lauren discuss the societal pressures of New Year's resolutions and advocate for a more realistic approach, especially for neurodivergent individuals and parents of neurodivergent children. They highlight the overwhelming nature of setting too many goals and emphasize the importance of focusing on one or two manageable objectives at a time to avoid burnout and shame. They also stress the importance of self-compassion and creating a supportive environment for personal growth and effective parenting.   00:00 Introduction 00:51 New Year, No Pressure 02:30 The Reality of New Year's Resolutions 05:18 Understanding Burnout and Stress 08:18 Setting Realistic Goals 13:24 Reflection and Self-Compassion 18:32 Final Thoughts and Community Support   Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership   Connect with Samantha Foote! Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

    20 min
  2. Why Autistic and ADHD Kids Need Rest During the Holidays | Ep. 145

    12/22/2025

    Why Autistic and ADHD Kids Need Rest During the Holidays | Ep. 145

    In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about the importance of taking a break during the holiday season, particularly for families with neurodivergent members. They discuss the challenges that arise from the busy holiday schedules and emphasize the necessity of rest for mental health and overall well-being. Samantha and Lauren share personal experiences and provide insights on how to manage holiday stress, suggesting that prioritizing rest and downtime can mitigate meltdowns and enhance the holiday experience for both parents and children. They also touch upon the societal expectations to be constantly productive and how this goes against the natural cycles of rest observed in nature.   00:00 Introduction 00:36 Hosts' Personal Updates and Reflections 01:17 The Importance of Rest During Breaks 02:22 Managing Holiday Stress and Expectations 06:01 Adapting Family Traditions 10:30 The Natural Cycle of Rest and Productivity 14:51 Why Downtime is Essential for Neurodivergent Kids 16:15 Parents' Need for Downtime and Managing Triggers 19:28 Final Thoughts and Community Support   Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership   Connect with Samantha Foote! Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

    21 min
  3. Anneke Elmhirst and Emotional Regulation Tips for Parents and Kids (Ep. 70 Rerun)

    12/15/2025

    Anneke Elmhirst and Emotional Regulation Tips for Parents and Kids (Ep. 70 Rerun)

    Anneke (pronounced UH-nuh-kuh) is a coach with a background in both corporate and clinical settings, having worked as a clinical director, supervisor, and behavior analyst. Based in Pittsburgh, PA, she supports clients worldwide through phone and video conferencing. Anneke specializes in coaching professionals with ADHD, autism, and related neurodivergent experiences. She brings personal insight to her practice, as she has been diagnosed with ADHD, depression, anxiety, and PTSD.   Website: www.Anneke-Elmhirst.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/allforlovecoaching   Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership   Connect with Samantha Foote! Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

    36 min
  4. Why Your PDA Child Isn’t Being Defiant and How to Support Them | Ep. 143

    12/08/2025

    Why Your PDA Child Isn’t Being Defiant and How to Support Them | Ep. 143

    In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss strategies for effectively parenting children with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). They emphasize the importance of collaboration over direct demands to help children feel more in control and safe, which mitigates reactive behaviors. They explain how giving children choices and involving them in decision-making can prevent the activation of their parasympathetic nervous system, which is linked to anxiety and defensive behaviors. Practical examples like offering options instead of direct commands are given and the importance of flexibility and patience in parenting, particularly for neurodivergent families is discussed. Samantha and Lauren also highlight the significance of co-regulation and maintaining a calm demeanor to support a child's sense of autonomy and safety. A PDA cheat sheet with useful scripts and strategies is available for listeners.   00:00 Introduction 00:39 Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) 03:00 Collaborative Parenting Strategies 06:08 Practical Examples and Scripts 09:37 Managing Parental Expectations and Flexibility 21:30 Maintaining a Regulated Nervous System 24:30 Conclusion and Resources   Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership Get the PDA Cheat Sheet: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/pda-cheat-sheet   Connect with Samantha Foote! Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

    26 min
  5. Shove Your Shoulds with Jessica Frew | Ep. 142

    12/01/2025

    Shove Your Shoulds with Jessica Frew | Ep. 142

    In this episode, Samantha and Lauren engage in a compelling conversation with Jessica Frew, the author of 'Shove Your Shoulds,' a pivotal book aimed at helping ambitious women shed societal conditioning and make bold decisions without guilt or fear. Throughout the discussion, Jessica shares insights into the importance of setting personal boundaries, trusting one's intuition, and the role of parents in modeling behavior for their children. Jessica’s teachings are for everyone, particularly those raising neurodivergent children, advocating for a parenting approach free from societal 'shoulds'. She provides real-life examples of navigating difficult relationships, establishing firm boundaries, and making aligned decisions.   00:00 Introduction to Every Brand Is Different Podcast 00:39 Meet Jessica Fru: Author and Bold Decision Coach 01:36 The Concept of 'Shove Your Shoulds' 02:17 Releasing the Shoulds and Trusting Your Gut 06:32 Setting Boundaries and Silencing the Noise 13:40 Building a Support System 20:12 Raising Kids Without Shoulds 26:20 Where to Find Jessica Fru and Her Book 27:34 Jessica Fru's Fun and Family Life 28:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Get the book: https://shoveyourshoulds.com/freebook Connect with Jessica: https://www.instagram.com/heyjessicafrew/   Join the Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership   Connect with Samantha Foote! Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

    34 min
  6. Autistic Burnout and What You Can Do About It | Ep. 141

    11/24/2025

    Autistic Burnout and What You Can Do About It | Ep. 141

    In this episode, Samantha and Lauren discuss autistic burnout, especially prevalent during the holiday season. They explain the difference between stress and burnout, and share personal experiences to illustrate the impact of prolonged masking and sensory overload on neurodivergent children. Samantha and Lauren provide detailed signs of burnout, including increased irritability, emotional outbursts, and physical symptoms, along with practical advice on how to support recovery through reduced demands, predictability, sensory rest, and encouraging autonomy. They emphasize the importance of parental regulation and offer strategies to prevent future burnout, such as prioritizing recovery time, practicing energy accounting, and teaching children to advocate for their needs.   00:00 Introduction 00:39 Discussing Autistic Burnout During the Holidays 02:58 Understanding Autistic Burnout 09:22 Early Warning Signs of Burnout 12:10 Common Triggers of Burnout 14:59 Supporting Recovery from Burnout 20:48 Preventing Future Burnout 24:28 Conclusion and Community Support   Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership   Connect with Samantha Foote! Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

    25 min
  7. Using Gratitude to Shift Out of Meltdown Mode | Ep. 140

    11/17/2025

    Using Gratitude to Shift Out of Meltdown Mode | Ep. 140

    In this episode, Samantha and Lauren dive talk about of gratitude. They share personal anecdotes and practical strategies for incorporating gratitude into daily life, especially for parents of neurodivergent children. The discussion covers how gratitude can serve as a tool for self-regulation, helping both parents and kids navigate challenging moments by shifting focus from problems to solutions. Additionally, they explore various sensory and creative methods to make gratitude a concrete and engaging practice for children, thereby fostering emotional well-being and resilience.   00:00 Introduction to Every Brain Is Different Podcast 00:43 Today's Topic: The Power of Gratitude 01:44 Real-Life Example: Halloween Gratitude Story 04:21 The Science Behind Gratitude 06:14 Practical Gratitude Tips for Parents 13:20 Modeling Gratitude for Kids 15:17 Sensory and Creative Gratitude Activities 21:22 Conclusion and Support Resources   Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership Connect with Samantha Foote! Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

    24 min
  8. Why Play Is the Best Way to Teach Neurodivergent Kids | Ep. 139

    11/10/2025

    Why Play Is the Best Way to Teach Neurodivergent Kids | Ep. 139

    In this episode, Samantha and Lauren talk about the significant role that play has in children's development. They discuss how play is not only about having fun, but it actually changes brain structure and function, aiding in the learning process. They explain that play releases dopamine, helping with motivation, focus, and learning, especially for children with ADHD. Samantha and Lauren highlight the importance of engaging in play to teach social skills, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and cognitive flexibility. They also share personal anecdotes and professional experiences to emphasize the profound impact play has on building trust and connection with children.   00:00 Introduction 00:39 The Importance of Play for Adults and Kids 02:36 Neuroscience Behind Play 04:49 Play and Emotional Regulation 06:09 Building Trust and Perspective Through Play 10:11 Connecting with Kids Through Play 15:35 Effective Therapy Through Play 20:15 Practical Tips for Incorporating Play 22:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Join the Neurodivergent Parenting Community: https://www.everybrainisdifferent.com/membership   Connect with Samantha Foote! Website: https://everybrainisdifferent.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

    24 min
See All (157)

Trailer

5
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

Welcome to Every Brain is Different, the podcast designed for parents raising kids with Autism, ADHD, and other neurodiverse conditions. Discover practical parenting strategies, expert insights, and real-life stories that highlight the strengths and challenges of neurodivergent individuals. Join us to connect with a supportive community of parents, gain tools to help your child thrive, and celebrate the unique ways every brain works. If you're looking for inspiration, effective parenting strategies, or simply a sense of connection, tune into Every Brain is Different and join a community that truly understands. Website: www.everybrainisdifferent.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/everybrainisdifferent TikTok: www.tiktok.com/everybrainsidifferent YouTube: www.youtube.com/@everybrainisdifferent

Information

You Might Also Like