SHINING WITH ADHD

#200: Celebrating 100 Episodes: What We’ve Learned from All of YOU Along This Journey

The Childhood Collective

6/4/2025

SUMMARY

We can’t believe it—Shining with ADHD is celebrating 100 episodes. Over the past few years, we’ve had incredible conversations with experts, connected with amazing ADHD parents, and learned so much from you, our listeners. Today, we are celebrating and reflecting on five powerful lessons we’ve gained from our community—because parenting a child with ADHD is a journey, and we’re in it together. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just started listening, this episode is packed with encouragement, insights, and a whole lot of gratitude for all of you!

MEET OUR TEAM

We are Lori, Mallory, and Katie. Lori and Mallory are child psychologists, and Katie is a speech language pathologist. Most importantly, we are moms, just like you. After working with families over a combined total of 40 years, we saw a need to provide ongoing support and education to parents raising children with ADHD.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #200 Transcript

The Childhood Collective Instagram

Have a question or want to share some thoughts? Shoot us an email at hello@thechildhoodcollective.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Climbing Products for Kids with ADHD

Calling all parents with energizer bunnies! With ADHD kids, the energy can be super fun and also super challenging at times. We have to be very thoughtful about giving our kids opportunities to run, climb, and move their bodies. We asked for your best climbing ideas, and you came through with amazing recommendations! We took all of your climbing favorites and compiled them into a list to share with you.

Climbing Products

Hungryroot

Hungryroot offers “good-for-you groceries and simple recipes.” We have loved having one less thing to worry about when it comes to raising kids. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Creating Calm Course

Creating Calm is a video-based course that will teach you simple, step-by-step strategies to help you parent a happy and independent child with ADHD (ages 4-12 years old). Whenever and wherever you have an internet connection. Use the code PODCAST for 10% off!

Creating Calm Course

SHINING WITH ADHD

#199: Self-Care is Not Selfish! Small Shifts That Make a Big Difference

The Childhood Collective

5/28/2025

SUMMARY

If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at the phrase “don’t forget to take care of yourself,” this episode is for you. We’re joined by Monica Packer from the About Progress podcast to talk about what self-care *really* looks like when you're raising neurodivergent kids. Monica helps us move beyond bubble baths and into daily practices that actually help us feel more grounded, connected, and calm. Whether you’re deep in survival mode or just craving a little more peace, this conversation is full of empathy and doable steps to help you make progress toward your goals.

MEET MONICA PACKER

Monica Packer is a recovering perfectionist who uncovered the truest model to lasting growth: it's progress made practical. As a podcaster and coach, she guides women to find sustainable growth by adopting progress over perfection. Monica’s popular podcast, About Progress is a top-rated show with millions of downloads. She has served thousands of women online as a certified habits and identity coach. Monica is a mom of 5, former middle school teacher, sourdough obsessor, and beginning gardener. You can find more about Monica at aboutprogress.com.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #199 Transcript

About Progress Website

Sticky Habit Rainstorm

About Progress Instagram

The Childhood Collective Instagram

Have a question or want to share some thoughts? Shoot us an email at hello@thechildhoodcollective.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Shining at School

Shining at School is a video-based course that will teach you how to help your child with ADHD go from surviving to thriving at school for elementary and middle schoolers. On your own time. At your own pace. Use the code PODCAST for 10% off!

Shining at School Course

Hungryroot

Hungryroot offers “good-for-you groceries and simple recipes.” We have loved having one less thing to worry about when it comes to raising kids. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Board Games for Kids with ADHD

Board games are a natural way to help kids build their executive functioning and cooperation skills. When we polled the community about your favorite board games for kids with ADHD, you gave us hundreds of ideas! We narrowed them down to the games that got the most votes, and sorted them by age. Check out our top recommendations for board games for kids with ADHD, and let us know how it goes.

Board Games for Kids with ADHD

SHINING WITH ADHD

#198: An Episode for the Whole Family: Celebrating ADHD Strengths

The Childhood Collective

5/21/2025

SUMMARY

Let's take a moment to focus on ADHD strengths. This episode is just for kids (and their grown-ups!) because having ADHD comes with some pretty amazing superpowers. Today, we’re talking all about the incredible strengths of ADHD brains. If your child ever feels like ADHD is only about challenges, this is the perfect episode to remind them just how awesome they are!

MEET OUR TEAM

We are Lori, Mallory, and Katie. Lori and Mallory are child psychologists, and Katie is a speech language pathologist. Most importantly, we are moms, just like you. After working with families over a combined total of 40 years, we saw a need to provide ongoing support and education to parents raising children with ADHD.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #198 Transcript

The Childhood Collective Instagram

Have a question or want to share some thoughts? Shoot us an email at hello@thechildhoodcollective.com

SHINING WITH ADHD

#197: Dyslexia at School: How to Access Reading Support for your Child with ADHD

The Childhood Collective

5/14/2025

SUMMARY

If your child has ADHD and struggles with reading, you might be wondering how to get the best support at school. Today, we’re joined by Michelle Henderson, a dyslexia therapist and advocate, to talk about how families can access structured literacy interventions and evidence-based reading support. She shares the biggest challenges parents face in getting reading services at school and gives practical tips for advocating effectively (hint: it starts with asking the right questions!). If you're navigating ADHD and dyslexia, this episode will empower you with the tools and knowledge to ensure your child gets the support they need!

MEET MICHELLE HENDERSON

Michelle is a teacher, a parent coach, and an advocate for children and literacy! She is a certified Structured Literacy Dyslexia Specialist, trained in the Orton-Gillingham approach with a master's degree in Reading Science. She is also the proud mom of a brilliant dyslexic learner. She lives in Hawaii with her four children and husband and loves to eat tropical fruit and spend time in nature.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #197 Transcript

Free Parent-Teacher Conference Guide

Michelle's Website

The Childhood Collective Instagram

Have a question or want to share some thoughts? Shoot us an email at hello@thechildhoodcollective.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Shining at School

Shining at School is a video-based course that will teach you how to help your child with ADHD go from surviving to thriving at school for elementary and middle schoolers. On your own time. At your own pace. Use the code PODCAST for 10% off!

Shining at School Course

Hungryroot

Hungryroot offers “good-for-you groceries and simple recipes.” We have loved having one less thing to worry about when it comes to raising kids. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Time Timer

We can’t have your attention and not mention Time Timer. This amazing tool helps with activity transitions, independence, and building executive function skills. Head to and use the code TCC to get a site-wide discount.

Time Timer

SHINING WITH ADHD

#196: ADHD and Tics: A Parent’s Guide to Understanding and Managing Tics

The Childhood Collective

5/7/2025

SUMMARY

If your child has ADHD and you've noticed sudden movements or sounds they can't seem to control, you're not alone! Many parents wonder if tics are related to ADHD, how common they are, and what—if anything—they should do about them. Today, we’re answering some of the most common questions we get about tics, including what they look like, when to be concerned, and strategies to support your child. Whether your child has experienced tics or you’re just curious about the connection, this episode is packed with practical info and reassurance. Tune in for a compassionate conversation that will help you feel more confident navigating this part of your child’s journey!

MEET OUR TEAM

We are Lori, Mallory, and Katie. Lori and Mallory are child psychologists, and Katie is a speech language pathologist. Most importantly, we are moms, just like you. After working with families over a combined total of 40 years, we saw a need to provide ongoing support and education to parents raising children with ADHD.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #196 Transcript

The Childhood Collective Instagram

Have a question or want to share some thoughts? Shoot us an email at hello@thechildhoodcollective.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Creating Calm Course

Creating Calm is a video-based course that will teach you simple, step-by-step strategies to help you parent a happy and independent child with ADHD (ages 4-12 years old). Whenever and wherever you have an internet connection. Use the code PODCAST for 10% off!

Creating Calm Course

Hungryroot

Hungryroot offers “good-for-you groceries and simple recipes.” We have loved having one less thing to worry about when it comes to raising kids. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Zenimal

We love the Zenimal. It’s amazing for kids who are feeling anxious or need a little help calming their busy body before bed. The best part? Each meditation ends with the most beautiful message: “You’re a good kid!” Use our code: TCC for a 15% off discount.

Zenimal

SHINING WITH ADHD

#195: Why ADHD Sleep Problems Happen and How You Can Help: Practical Strategies from A Sleep Expert

The Childhood Collective

4/30/2025

SUMMARY

Is your child dealing with ADHD sleep problems? Many children with ADHD have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early. The truth is, it can be incredibly difficult for the entire family. Today, we have the honor of talking with Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a leading expert on ADHD and sleep, to uncover why these challenges happen—and, more importantly, how you can help. Effortlessly combining the science of sleep with humor and creative ideas, Dr. Olivardia shares innovative sleep strategies for ADHD that can make nights (and mornings!) easier for you.

MEET DR. OLIVARDIA

Dr. Roberto Olivardia is a Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Associate at McLean Hospital and Lecturer in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He is on the Scientific Advisory Board for ADDitude, as well as sits on the Professional Advisory Boards for Children and Adults with ADHD (CHADD), the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA), and is a Featured Expert for Understood. He presents at many conferences, podcasts and webinars around the country.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #195 Transcript

Contact Dr. Olivarida

The Childhood Collective Instagram

Have a question or want to share some thoughts? Shoot us an email at hello@thechildhoodcollective.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Shining at School

Shining at School is a video-based course that will teach you how to help your child with ADHD go from surviving to thriving at school for elementary and middle schoolers. On your own time. At your own pace. Use the code PODCAST for 10% off!

Shining at School Course

Hungryroot

Hungryroot offers “good-for-you groceries and simple recipes.” We have loved having one less thing to worry about when it comes to raising kids. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Zenimal

We love the Zenimal. It’s amazing for kids who are feeling anxious or need a little help calming their busy body before bed. The best part? Each meditation ends with the most beautiful message: “You’re a good kid!” Use our code: TCC for a 15% off discount.

Zenimal

SHINING WITH ADHD

#194: ADHD and Hygiene: How to Problem-Solve Daily Struggles Together

The Childhood Collective

4/23/2025

SUMMARY

Struggling to get your child to brush their teeth, put on deodorant, or take a shower without a battle? You’re not alone! In today’s episode of Shining with ADHD, we’re talking all about hygiene—and how to make it easier for kids with ADHD. We’re sharing practical strategies, tackling sensory sensitivities, and sharing real tips from our listeners that have actually worked in their homes. Tune in for a collaborative, problem-solving approach that will help your child build independence (without the daily power struggles)!

MEET OUR TEAM

We are Lori, Mallory, and Katie. Lori and Mallory are child psychologists, and Katie is a speech language pathologist. Most importantly, we are moms, just like you. After working with families over a combined total of 40 years, we saw a need to provide ongoing support and education to parents raising children with ADHD.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #194 Transcript

Printables

Time Timer

The Childhood Collective Instagram

Have a question or want to share some thoughts? Shoot us an email at hello@thechildhoodcollective.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Time Timer

We can’t have your attention and not mention Time Timer. This amazing tool helps with activity transitions, independence, and building executive function skills. Head to and use the code TCC to get a site-wide discount.

Time Timer

Hungryroot

Hungryroot offers “good-for-you groceries and simple recipes.” We have loved having one less thing to worry about when it comes to raising kids. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Creating Calm Course

Creating Calm is a video-based course that will teach you simple, step-by-step strategies to help you parent a happy and independent child with ADHD (ages 4-12 years old). Whenever and wherever you have an internet connection. Use the code PODCAST for 10% off!

Creating Calm Course

SHINING WITH ADHD

#193: Birds & Bees: How to Talk to Kids with ADHD About Sex, Bodies, and Boundaries

The Childhood Collective

4/16/2025

SUMMARY

Heads up, parents—this episode includes anatomically correct terms, so if little ears are around, you might want to pop in your headphones for this one! Talking to kids about their bodies and sex can feel overwhelming—but avoiding the conversation isn’t the answer. We sat down with Mary Flo and Megan from Birds & Bees to talk about how to confidently talk to kids with ADHD about sex, bodies, and boundaries. Using clear, anatomically correct language and having open, ongoing conversations helps kids feel safe and informed. If you’re wondering when or how to start, this episode is a must-listen.

MEET MARY FLO & MEGAN

In 1986, Mary Flo Ridley began presenting a popular parenting seminar in the Dallas area, teaching parents how to talk to their children about sex. Armed with medical research, personal stories, and humor, Mary Flo walks parents through very specific ways to answer their children’s early questions with confidence.

Before diving into the world of sex education, Megan was a middle school teacher. Megan is passionate about equipping and empowering parents to have healthy and age appropriate conversations with their kids about sex.

Together, Mary Flo and Megan form the dynamic duo of the Birds & Bees, fusing expertise, passion, and a touch of humor to revolutionize the way we communicate about sex education.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #193 Transcript

The Birds & Bees Online Course - use code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE20 for a 20% discount

Birds & Bees Instagram

The Childhood Collective Instagram

Have a question or want to share some thoughts? Shoot us an email at hello@thechildhoodcollective.com