The Brainy Moms

Teen pain often wants proof, and too many families discover self-harm the hardest way—by finding the evidence. Dr. Amy sits down with returning guest Stacy Schaffer, a licensed professional counselor, to unpack non-suicidal self-injury with clarity and care. We name what NSSI is and isn’t, explore why it seems to provide fast relief to hurting teens, and talk through what to do the moment a teen opens up. You’ll hear how shame keeps kids silent, how calm presence invites honesty, and why a clear plan beats punishment every time. We dig into real-world guidance for parents, coaches, and teachers: how to thank a teen for their trust, offer choices for bringing caregivers into the conversation, and separate safety steps from secrecy-inducing consequences. Stacy explains the addictive loop—dopamine, relief, and reinforcement—that can build around cutting or burning, and how speaking to a teen’s own values and near-future moments (prom, summer jobs, sports uniforms) often lands better than distant warnings. We also highlight the long tail of scars and how regret can surface even after the behavior stops. Most importantly, we share practical tools to bridge the urges: sensory substitutions like sour candy, ice, and specialized fidgets that create safe discomfort; 15-minute “urge surfing” to let intensity pass; and when tracking “sober days” can motivate rather than shame. We cover safety planning—locking up sharps without locking down trust—and the power of a supportive circle of adults beyond the home. Throughout, we keep the focus on curiosity over judgment and parenting the child you have in today’s always-watched, always-connected world. If this resonates, subscribe, share with a friend who needs it, and leave a quick review. Your feedback helps more families like you! ABOUT US: The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her co-hosts have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping moms and kids thrive in life, learning, and relationships. If you love us, add us to your playlist! CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

Teens today live at the intersection of real mental health risks and viral misused language like gaslighting, narcissism, and DID. On this episode of The Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy sat down with children’s therapist Stacy Schaffer to unpack how parents can support mental health without turning every rough patch into a diagnosis. Stacy shares the story behind her new book and the core idea that guides her work: integrate tough histories into practical, present-day tools so kids feel seen, safe, and capable. We dig into the messy middle of modern childhood—where TikTok trends meet group-chat drama and where grooming, exclusion, and “subtle” cruelty often fly under the bullying radar. Stacy offers concrete steps for delaying social platforms, keeping an open pulse on online connections, and having frank, age-appropriate talks about consent, safety, and the law. We also explore why framing therapy as a gift changes everything, and how to invite teens into the process so they feel respected rather than “sent.” A big theme is language. Words like trauma, gaslighting, narcissist, and DID carry weight and meaning; when they get stretched to cover discomfort or disagreement, everyone loses clarity. Stacy walks us through what those terms actually mean, when they apply, and how to teach kids a simple 1–10 scale that builds perspective without dismissing pain. We also clarify dissociation versus dissociative identity disorder and offer scripts that keep compassion high while holding responsibility steady: “You’re in charge of all your parts.” Along the way, we talk about modeling healthy conflict at home, building emotion regulation, and helping kids collect “data” from hard moments they survived. If you’ve wondered how to respond when your teen throws out a buzzword, how to know when it’s time for counseling, or how to keep kids safer online, this conversation delivers calm, clear guidance you can use today. About Stacy Schaffer Stacy Schaffer is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over twenty years of experience helping children, teens, and young adults navigate emotional and behavioral challenges. Based in Arvada, Colorado, she is the founder and director of Stacy Schaffer Counseling and specializes in both grief therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. Her extensive training includes a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling from Ottawa University, a Graduate Diploma in Christian Counseling from Phoenix Seminary, and certifications in Synergetic Play Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). She is a proud member of both the National Association of Play Therapy and the Colorado Association for Play Therapy. She’s the author of the book, With Love from a Children's Therapist about lessons she’s learned from her practice. About Us The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her co-hosts have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping moms and kids thrive in life, learning, and relationships. If you love us, add us to your playlist! ABOUT US: The Brainy Moms is a parenting podcast hosted by cognitive psychologist Dr. Amy Moore. Dr. Amy and her co-hosts have conversations with experts in parenting, child development, education, psychology, mental health, and neuroscience. Listeners leave with tips and advice for helping moms and kids thrive in life, learning, and relationships. If you love us, add us to your playlist! CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

What if helping your kid find “the right career” starts with removing the pressure to choose one? On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy sit down with counselor and career coach Dr. Tega Edwin to rethink how families approach work, college, and the messy middle in between. From fifth-grade classrooms to college advising offices, she’s seen how early biases about gender and prestige quietly close doors—and how simple exposure to real people in diverse roles opens them again. We unpack a practical roadmap: start with exploration in childhood, not decisions; move into skill-building and option-finding in the teen years; and treat careers as fluid expressions of who we are, not final destinations. Dr. Tega shares classroom-tested ideas that make pathways tangible. For parents guiding older teens, we dig into smarter college strategy—sampling classes, staying undeclared when helpful, using career services early, and avoiding the debt spiral of constant major changes. You’ll also hear how to translate any degree into marketable skills, and why “What Can I Do With This Major?” belongs in every family’s toolbox. Money worries fuel career fear, so we go straight at financial literacy: budgeting, saving, and investing as the bedrock of freedom to explore. We talk about leveraging your network for shadowing, coaching social skills for the workplace, and turning part-time jobs into lessons in EQ, advocacy, and professionalism. And when a dream is blocked—by health, academics, or reality—we talk about redirecting it without crushing it, honoring the spirit behind the goal. Along the way, we challenge parents to audit their own beliefs about work, because kids learn from what we model, not just what we say. If you’re ready to replace anxiety with clarity and give your kids tools to pivot with purpose, hit play. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who’s stressing about career and majors, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway so more families can find it. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: BrainyMoms@gmail.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Visit our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com

The temperature of public disagreement feels scorching—and that heat is seeping into our homes. We dig into what it means to hold strong convictions while still honoring people, then connect that idea to everyday parenting: how we talk with our kids, how we set boundaries without shaming, and how we handle it when we don't agree. From there, we pull back the curtain on the forces shaping our families—peer culture, dopamine-driven feeds, and convenience foods designed to hijack attention and appetite—and lay out a calmer path forward. Joined by our favorite nutrition scientist (and new dad) Matty Lansdown, now rebranded as The Real Weight Loss Coach, we walk through why root-cause health beats quick fixes. Matty talks GLP-1 medications with clear eyes—acknowledging potential benefits while naming real side effects and the risk of unresolved binge cycles—and then outlines an alternative: nervous system safety first, sleep and stress dialed in, ingredients-first meals, strength training for muscle and metabolism, and low-risk natural experiments that respect bioindividuality. Matty’s core message is simple and radical: the body keeps the score, and lasting change begins when we feel safe enough to choose differently. We also take on the tricky question of teens and weight. Instead of aesthetic pressure, we focus on health markers, modeling, and the quiet power of the “ingredients household.” Device-free dinners, predictable rituals, and parent-led example set the tone even when teens detour. And throughout, we return to one big takeaway: honor family values, do less, do it better. Presence lowers cortisol, steadies cravings, and makes healthy choices feel possible in real life. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Homeschooling or thinking about it? Wondering if 'open education' is right for your homeschooled child? What if everything we thought we knew about education was designed for a world that no longer exists? Matt Bowman, founder of OpenEd and international bestselling author, joins Dr. Amy and Sandy on this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast to challenge the foundations of traditional education and offer a refreshingly practical alternative for today's families who are homeschooling or even considering it. After watching all five of his children develop in completely different ways despite growing up in the same household, Matt realized that education shouldn't be one-size-fits-all—it should be as unique as each child. The conversation dives deep into why standard education often fails to meet individual needs. Matt explains how our current system was originally modeled after military training methods imported from Europe over 200 years ago—designed to produce obedient soldiers rather than creative, independent thinkers. This standardization approach stands in stark contrast to how children actually learn and develop. "The real tragedy," Matt shares, "is that this system not only fails to measure what matters in education—creativity, continuous progress, critical thinking, skill development—it actively works against it." For parents whose children are struggling, unhappy, or just not thriving, Matt offers a revolutionary yet simple starting point: take two weeks to try something different. Give your child space to explore their interests without pressure, and watch what naturally emerges. One of the most powerful insights Matt shares is reframing our understanding of failure. While traditional education treats failure as something to avoid at all costs, successful athletes, musicians, and entrepreneurs embrace it as essential to growth. Teaching children to see challenges as "not yet" rather than failure fundamentally transforms their relationship with learning. With AI rapidly changing our economic landscape, the skills that matter most aren't standardized test scores but creativity, adaptability, and entrepreneurial thinking. Matt encourages parents to tap into community resources—museums, local businesses, nature, arts programs—and integrate them into core education rather than treating them as mere enrichment. For families ready to explore alternatives, Matt reminds us that small changes can make an enormous difference. Whether it's adjusting schedules, exploring interests, or incorporating entrepreneurship, the goal isn't to replicate school at home but to create learning experiences that honor each child's unique path. Join us to get inspired about personalizing an education that works for your unique child. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

When your child is drowning in mental health struggles, the weight of helplessness can feel crushing. Where do you turn? How do you fight a battle you can't even see? Nurse practitioner and author Jen Robb knows this battlefield intimately. On this episode of The Brainy Moms Podcast, she tells Dr. Amy all about it. "We were the white picket fence, typical all-American kind of family," Jenn shares, describing how her daughter Chloe's mental health crisis blindsided their family. Like many parents, Jen initially retreated into silence, carrying the burden alone rather than risking judgment from others. That isolation nearly broke her. Through raw vulnerability and faith-filled wisdom, Jenn guides listeners through the transformative journey from silent suffering to empowered advocacy. She challenges the notion that doctors always know best, encouraging parents to respectfully question treatment plans and seek providers who address root causes rather than simply medicating symptoms. "Your child doesn't have a voice in that circumstance," she reminds us. "No one is going to fight as hard for your child as you will." The path forward isn't about perfection but presence. Jenn's powerful reminder that "your child doesn't need a perfect mom; they need a present mom" liberates parents from impossible standards while focusing on what truly matters – showing up emotionally and physically while allowing children space to feel their feelings. This delicate balance requires setting healthy boundaries not just for our children, but for ourselves as parents. Perhaps most profound is Jenn's perspective on surrender. After a terrifying incident where Chloe was hospitalized with alcohol poisoning, Jenn describes hearing God whisper, "As much as you love her, I love her more." This spiritual surrender didn't mean abandoning responsibility, but rather acknowledging her limitations and finding strength beyond herself. Whether you're currently navigating teen mental health challenges or simply want to be prepared, Jenn's practical wisdom on supporting brain health through technology boundaries, sleep hygiene, and proper nutrition offers valuable tools for every family. Connect with Jenn's supportive community at warriormomcoach.net and discover how to become the warrior your child needs during their darkest battles. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Ever feel like you're failing at work if you don't give 110%, and failing at home if you try? You're not alone in this impossible balancing act. In this conversation between Dr. Amy and returning guest Leah Remillet, balance strategist and host of the Balancing Busy podcast, they tackle the myth of perfect balance head-on. Leah redefines balance not as equal attention to everything, but as "being true to what actually matters to us—not what we're being told matters." This perspective shift alone can liberate working moms from unnecessary guilt and perfectionism. What makes this episode particularly powerful are the personal stories Leah and Dr. Amy share about their perceived "failures" that unexpectedly became their children's greatest lessons. Leah worried about delegating household tasks to her kids, only to discover years later that her daughter was grateful for the confidence these responsibilities built. Similarly, Dr. Amy's health limitations meant her husband handled most household duties—inadvertently teaching their sons that household work isn't gender-based, but determined by capacity. We dive deep into Leah's practical "10 Simple Tweaks" for busy moms, exploring everything from limiting screen time and batching similar tasks to outsourcing what drains you and scheduling actual "recess" time for yourself. The science is clear: those intentional breaks make you more productive, not less, by reducing cortisol and preventing mental fatigue. Whether you're drowning in to-dos or simply tired of feeling pulled in too many directions, this conversation offers both permission to simplify and practical strategies to reclaim your time and energy. Your worth isn't measured by how busy you are—and this might be the most important lesson you model for your children. Ready to do less but better? Listen now and discover how true balance starts with being unapologetic about what matters most to you. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

The gap between being "smart" and "struggling" often confuses parents, especially when school accommodations don't seem to be working. Dr. Amy and Sandy dive into this critical topic, exploring how cognitive processing differs from academic learning and why this distinction matters for your child's future. Your child's brain isn't just responsible for thinking and learning—it processes emotions too. When cognitive skills like working memory, processing speed, or reasoning are weak, it affects everything from test performance to social interactions. A child who struggles to process information efficiently experiences frustration that can manifest as behavioral problems, avoidance, or diminished self-confidence. As one parent shared, "My vibrant child began to wilt because he just felt like a failure." The conversation tackles the tough question many parents ask: how far behind is too far behind? While temporary slowdowns in specific subjects aren't concerning, persistent patterns of struggle across multiple areas signal deeper cognitive issues that won't simply resolve with time. These struggles eventually impact self-esteem and emotional well-being, sometimes in ways children can't articulate until they face a significant challenge. Most educational approaches rely heavily on accommodations rather than addressing underlying cognitive weaknesses. While extra time or modified assignments help in the moment, they don't prepare children for college or careers where such accommodations may be limited or unavailable. Building cognitive skills creates long-term solutions that allow children to function independently throughout life. When parents disagree about interventions, the key is moving beyond arguments about the present to discuss fears about the future. What happens if we don't address these issues now? What are the long-term implications for independence and success? By strengthening cognitive skills, we don't change who children are—we free them from unnecessary struggles so their unique gifts can truly shine. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Sleep struggles can feel like a nightly battle when parenting a child with ADHD. But what if the solution isn't another sticker chart or stricter routine—but understanding the unique way your child's brain processes sensory information? Dr. Amy and Teri talk about how during a recent webinar on focus and attention for homeschooling families, one question dominated our Q&A session: "How do I help my ADHD child sleep?" This reflects a universal challenge as sleep disruption affects nearly every aspect of family life. The science explains why: children with ADHD typically experience altered sleep patterns, struggling to fall asleep, stay asleep, or sleeping for shorter durations. What many parents don't realize is that their own exhaustion and frustration at bedtime can actually make the problem worse through mirror neurons—special brain cells that make emotions contagious between people who care about each other. The game-changer for many families starts with identifying whether your child is a sensory seeker or a sensory avoider. Sensory seekers—those kids who run laps around the house and dive into couch cushions—need additional stimulation to calm down. They benefit from weighted blankets, textured bedding, rhythmic sounds, or rocking motions. Meanwhile, sensory avoiders become overwhelmed by too much input and need darker rooms, minimal noise, and softer textures. Understanding this fundamental difference allows you to create a bedroom environment that serves as your child's sensory sanctuary. Beyond environmental adjustments, be mindful that blue light from screens biologically blocks melatonin release, signaling to the brain that it's still daytime. This makes the no-screens-before-bed rule not arbitrary, but physiologically necessary. Quality sleep literally cleanses your child's brain, washing away toxins that accumulate during the day's neural activity. Without this cleansing process, cognitive function, emotional regulation, and learning capacity—areas where neurodivergent children already struggle—become even more challenging. By tailoring sleep routines to your child's unique sensory profile, you're not just improving nights, you're setting them up for better days and creating positive ripple effects throughout your family life. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Ever wondered why ADHD meltdowns seem so extreme and hard to manage? The answer lies in a crucial but often overlooked aspect of ADHD—emotional dysregulation—which surprisingly isn't even included in diagnostic criteria. We dive into some neuroscience behind these emotional challenges, exploring fascinating brain differences that explain why criticism can trigger an emotional tsunami in someone with ADHD. With approximately 80% of adolescents and adults with ADHD experiencing rejection-sensitive dysphoria, understanding these brain-based reactions transforms how we respond to emotional outbursts. Through a real-life parenting example about screen time limits, we demonstrate practical strategies for navigating boundaries without triggering meltdowns. You'll learn why co-regulation (bringing calm to emotional fire) works better than punishment, how to teach responsibility rather than enforce compliance, and why narrowing choices helps ADHD brains make decisions when they're paralyzed by too many options. Most importantly, we reframe discipline as teaching rather than punishment. The word "discipline" comes from "disciple," meaning to teach—and our goal should be equipping those with ADHD with skills to navigate their emotional landscape independently. We explain why consistency and repetition are crucial, and why working memory, long-term memory, and processing speed deficits (not just attention issues) create everyday challenges. Whether you're raising a child with ADHD or managing it yourself, this episode offers compassionate understanding alongside practical, science-backed strategies to transform your approach to emotional dysregulation. Come away with tools to turn frustrating interactions into opportunities for growth and learning. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

What if we approached teen technology and social media use more like teaching someone to drive rather than simply restricting access until they're "old enough"? Media literacy expert Jennifer Berger joins Dr. Amy and Sandy on the Brainy Moms podcast to introduce her groundbreaking program, the Social Media Driver's License, which does exactly that. After two decades of teaching media literacy to over 10,000 youth, Jennifer noticed a troubling pattern in how we approach teens and technology. Most resources emphasized monitoring, restriction, and punishment – approaches that often backfire by damaging parent-teen relationships and failing to build critical digital skills. Her response? Create a collaborative, skill-building program that prepares tweens and teens to navigate online spaces independently. The Social Media Driver's License features a unique dual-track approach. Kids ages 10-14 participate in a 10-session course led by older teenagers sharing hard-earned wisdom about social media navigation. Parents simultaneously access an audio course covering essential topics like handling online safety concerns, addressing problematic content, and maintaining healthy conversations about technology. This structure recognizes that eventually, teens will access technology, making preparation more valuable than restriction. Perhaps most refreshing is Berger's emphasis on maintaining connection. Rather than villainizing teens' digital worlds or implementing rigid, top-down rules, she advocates for genuine curiosity, collaborative boundary-setting, and calm responses when inevitable mistakes occur. As Dr. Amy notes during the conversation, "Connection is the number one buffer against mental health crisis," making this approach particularly valuable for supporting teen wellbeing. Ready to transform your approach to parenting in the digital age? Check out this episode! CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Most doctors fix acute problems, but what happens when your health concerns are more complex? What if your child is "symptomatic but not really sick"? On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy talk to functional medicine physician Dr. Randy James about the connections between our genes, our environment, and our overall wellbeing. Dr. James unpacks the philosophy of functional medicine, which seeks to understand the root causes of health issues rather than just masking symptoms. He explains why modern medicine often falls short when addressing chronic conditions or nebulous symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, or general unwellness. The key difference? Functional medicine recognizes that every human is "infinitely biochemically unique" and requires a personalized approach. Dr. James breaks down how our genes and environment interact. He demystifies the often misunderstood MTHFR gene variant, which affects approximately 40% of the population to varying degrees. This genetic variation impacts methylation – a critical process involved in detoxification, neurotransmitter production, and cellular repair. Research has shown statistical associations between MTHFR variants and conditions like ADHD, autism, depression, and other mental health challenges. But here's where hope enters the picture: Dr. James emphasizes that genetic predispositions are not deterministic. Just as someone with fair skin doesn't panic about their increased skin cancer risk but instead adapts with sunscreen and protective clothing, understanding your genetic variants allows you to make targeted lifestyle modifications that can dramatically improve outcomes. From prioritizing organic foods to eating plenty of green vegetables rich in natural B vitamins, these evidence-based strategies can help support optimal methylation pathways. Parents will find particular value in Dr. James' practical advice for supporting children with genetic predispositions. He outlines developmental red flags to watch for, explains why "normal" symptoms might not be healthy, and offers guidance for navigating the complex world of nutrition and supplementation without becoming overwhelmed. Ready to take control of your family's health journey? Join us for this empowering conversation that will change how you think about genes, environment, and your power to influence both. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Ever wonder why your child can't sit still during lessons? Why they melt down when they're wearing certain clothes? Or why they're suddenly screaming at you when they haven't eaten in hours? The answer might lie in sensory processing—a critical yet often overlooked component of learning and behavior. In this illuminating conversation, occupational therapist Sarah Collins unpacks how our sensory systems influence every aspect of learning and daily life. Beyond the familiar five senses we all know, she explains how our vestibular system (balance), proprioception (body awareness), and interoception (internal body signals) create the foundation for successful learning and emotional regulation. Sarah reveals the surprising connection between body awareness and emotion regulation, backed by research showing that children who struggle to sense what's happening in their bodies often have difficulty managing their emotions. This knowledge transforms how we understand "difficult" behaviors—what looks like defiance or lack of focus might actually be sensory overwhelm. The homeschooling environment offers unique opportunities to accommodate sensory needs. Instead of forcing children to adapt to one-size-fits-all learning environments, parents can create flexible spaces that support each child's sensory profile. Maybe your child comprehends better while gently rocking, standing, or even upside down! As Sarah explains, "calm" doesn't necessarily mean "still"—it means the nervous system is regulated enough to process information effectively. Most powerfully, Sarah shares practical strategies for identifying sensory needs and adapting environments accordingly. From morning routines that incorporate movement to sensory-friendly workspaces, these approaches can dramatically improve learning outcomes. She also discusses how to balance competing sensory needs when siblings have different—sometimes opposite—requirements for successful learning. Ready to transform your homeschool experience? Listen now to discover how understanding sensory processing can lead to less frustration, more enjoyment, and deeper learning for your entire family. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Wondering how to best parent your competitive athlete or dancer? Dr. Chelsea Pierotti joins Dr. Amy and Sandy on this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast to reveal the psychology behind peak performance and what parents can do to help—and sometimes, what they should stop doing. Drawing from her background as both a sports psychologist and professional ballet dancer, Dr. Chelsea shares why dancers face unique mental challenges as "artistic athletes." Unlike team sports with constant reactions, dancers follow choreographed routines that leave dangerous space for overthinking. She explains why even elite performers need strategies to stay present while letting physical skills flow automatically. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Dr. Chelsea unpacks why training for unexpected difficulties builds genuine confidence. Just as Olympic champion Michael Phelps practiced with broken goggles, dancers need to experience music cuts or costume malfunctions in practice to develop true resilience. This "training for the rare" teaches athletes they can handle anything—a skill that transfers far beyond performance. Parents will particularly appreciate Dr. Chelsea's clear guidance on their proper role in youth sports. She advises parents to be supportive managers handling logistics, while gradually teaching children to communicate directly with coaches. Her mantra "control the controllables" helps athletes focus exclusively on their attention, actions, and effort—letting go of judges, referees, and other external factors they cannot change. Perhaps most valuable is our discussion of redefining success beyond winning. By focusing on the "gain" (progress made) rather than the "gap" (distance from perfection), athletes develop healthier mindsets and lasting motivation. The 1% rule she shares demonstrates how small daily improvements compound into remarkable growth. Ready to help your young performer develop mental toughness that serves them in competition and beyond? Listen now and discover how to support the journey of your athlete or dancer without stepping into the coach's lane. Highlights from this episode: CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

Are you struggling to launch your adult child? Have you ever found yourself wondering if you're overstepping boundaries with your adult child? Maybe you're caught in the cycle of questioning how often to text them, whether to offer advice, or if you're supporting them the right way? You're not alone. On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy talk with Dr. Jack Stoltzfus – clinical psychologist, America's launch coach, and author of "The Parent's Launch Code". Dr. Jack reveals that the transition to adult independence is challenging precisely because "the problem with young adults is they're adults, you can't control them." This fundamental shift requires parents to abandon old power dynamics and embrace a partnership approach. Dr. Jack explains why this particular parenting stage feels so difficult, sharing eye-opening statistics including that more than 50% of young adults between 18-29 now live with their parents. Rather than viewing this as failure, he redefines successful launching as achieving self-sufficiency and responsibility, regardless of living situation. The real measure of success is whether young adults can stand independently while maintaining a caring bond with parents. The conversation takes a poignant turn when discussing estrangement – with one in four young adults cutting off communication with parents for months or indefinitely. Dr. Jack offers practical strategies to prevent this heartbreaking outcome, including his innovative "five-year plan" approach that helps young adults envision their future while creating manageable steps toward independence. Whether you're wrestling with questions about charging rent, setting boundaries when adult children return home from college, or navigating the delicate balance between offering support without enabling dependence, this episode provides compassionate guidance. Dr. Jack's framework of combining unconditional love with what he calls "backbone" (clear values and boundaries) offers a roadmap for maintaining connection while fostering independence. For every parent wondering how to love and launch simultaneously, this conversation is an essential guide to launching your adult child with confidence and care. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

America 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. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

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. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

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. Here’s a recap of what we talked about on this episode: • Recognizing the impact of stress on eating habits • The critical mother-daughter dynamic regarding body image • Tools for initiating conversations about food • Strategies for modeling a healthy relationship with food • Addressing the influence of social media on body image • Techniques for combating negative self-talk • Claire's programs for parents and teens • Encouragement for parents to embrace change and modeling behaviors CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

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. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com

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. CONNECT WITH US: Website: www.TheBrainyMoms.com Email: info@TheBrainyMoms.com Social Media: @TheBrainyMoms Our sponsor's website: www.LearningRx.com Sandy's TikTok: @TheBrainTrainerLady Dr. Amy's brand new IG: @DrAmySaysGrace Dr. Amy's website: www.AmyMoorePhD.com