#108: Managing Screens and ADHD

SHINING WITH ADHD 

EPISODE #147: “Defiance” and ADHD: Getting Curious About What’s Beneath the Surface

The Childhood Collective

3/13/2024

SUMMARY

Asking your child to clean their room or do one page of homework shouldn’t launch a battle complete with meltdowns, but often, for kids with ADHD, it does. You’re trying your hardest to breathe and regulate, but inside, you’re thinking, “Why is everything a fight?!” For those of us who grew up in strict, authoritarian homes, this is even more triggering. We feel disrespected by the “defiance” and don’t understand why some tasks cause such a disruption. While it’s incredibly frustrating, you are not alone. This is common in children with ADHD. The truth is that defiance is often a symptom of something deeper for the child. So today, we are going to dig into four possible explanations for why your ADHD child may seem defiant.

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.

OFFERS AND AFFILIATE INFORMATION

• 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!

• 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. As always, we want to help you, so we’ve got a code for 40% off your first box.  Just click the link and use CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40 in all caps to get the discount. 

• 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 discount.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode 147 Transcript

Anxiety Episode and Blogs

Creating Calm - Code PODCAST

Hungry Root - Code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40

Zenimal - Code TCC

Episode 147 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 

EPISODE #146: I Love My Brain! Helping Kids Understand ADHD with Nicole Russell

The Childhood Collective

3/6/2024

SUMMARY

It is easy to feel lost on how to help your amazing kiddo with ADHD see themselves the way you do. We all know they're incredible, but sometimes those unique brains can feel like a double-edged sword. That's where our guest for today, Nicole Russell comes in. She is a champion of self-love and the author of the awesome "My Busy, Busy Brain.” In this episode, Nicole shares practical tips for teaching self-advocacy and helping our kids rock their own rhythm. Hear her inspiring story of writing the book, her mission to spread Brain Love, and how we can empower our kids to see their differences as strengths. 

MEET NICOLE RUSSELL

Nicole Russell is a bestselling author and lead advocate for mental health and the well-being of children. She serves as Founder and Executive Director of Precious Dreams Foundation, the non-profit empowering youth in foster care and homeless shelters to learn healthy coping techniques and focus on their dreams. She is also CEO of Pitch House Productions, a social impact consulting agency that educates corporations on best practices for serving vulnerable populations. She has managed over 5 million dollars in community funding and scholarships. Russell uses her non-profit and creative tools to serve and advocate for youth through every aspect of her career. Her bestselling self-help book, Everything a Band-Aid Can't Fix, is highly regarded as a must-have for teens everywhere and has been added to the curriculum of middle and high schools nationwide. Inspired by her personal experience with ADHD, she also encourages children who struggle with ADHD and other learning obstacles to speak up for themselves in her children's book, My Busy, Busy Brain. Nicole's accolades include GLAMOUR's "Everyday Hero of the Year," Observer's "Top 20 Heroes Under 40", Walmart's "Community Playmaker Award," as well as a featured piece recognizing her efforts in O, The Oprah Magazine. More recently, Nicole was recognized by NBC and Essence as an essential hero for her efforts to serve and support the mental health needs of thousands of youth in the U.S. shelter system during the coronavirus pandemic.

OFFERS AND AFFILIATE INFORMATION

• 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!

• 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. As always, we want to help you, so we’ve got a code for 40% off your first box.  Just click the link and use CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40 in all caps to get the discount. 

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

LINKS + RESOURCES

Precious Dreams Foundation

Nicole’s Books

Nicole’s Instagram

Episode 146 Transcript

Shining at School - Code PODCAST

Hungry Root - Code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40

Time Timer - Code TCC

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

SHINING WITH ADHD 

EPISODE #145: The Bedtime Struggle is Real: One Tool to Help Your Child Stay in Bed

The Childhood Collective

2/28/2024

SUMMARY

Parenting expectation: The teeth are brushed, the jammies are on, and the white noise is humming softly. You spend a few soft moments with your child, give them a kiss, and tell them goodnight. The little cherubs stay in bed all night, and the entire family wakes up rested. Parenting reality: When bedtime hits, your kid has never been thirstier, and they HAVE to get water. The door must be cracked at the exact right spot. They need you to adjust the bed because something is itchy. You’ll get them settled, and 30 minutes later, they will have built a full-on marble run instead of staying in their bed. Bedtime struggles can be a universal experience, but they are particularly prevalent among children with ADHD. In this episode, we share one simple yet effective strategy that provides children with both security and boundaries, empowering them to settle into sleep independently.

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.

OFFERS AND AFFILIATE INFORMATION

• 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!

• 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. As always, we want to help you, so we’ve got a code for 40% off your first box.  Just click the link and use CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40 in all caps to get the discount. 

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

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode 145 Transcript

Creating Calm - Code PODCAST

Hungry Root - Code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40

Time Timer - Code TCC

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

SHINING WITH ADHD 

EPISODE #144: Did Someone Say Dance Party? ADHD Parenting CAN Be Fun!

The Childhood Collective

2/21/2024

SUMMARY

ADHD parenting is a lot of things. It can be challenging, confusing, interesting and rewarding. But it can also be FUN! Parenting ADHD gets easier when we intentionally infuse a sense of playfulness. We know you’re already managing so much and might be thinking, “Great, now I have to be FUN too!?” But hear us out…we have a few ideas, nothing too overwhelming, that you can try to make the mundane a little more fun for your family. In this episode, we share three very EASY tools that don’t require hours of planning or hundreds of dollars! 

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.

OFFERS AND AFFILIATE INFORMATION

• 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!

• 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. As always, we want to help you, so we’ve got a code for 40% off your first box.  Just click the link and use CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40 in all caps to get the discount. 

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

LINKS + RESOURCES

Printables from The Childhood Collective

Episode 144 Transcript

Creating Calm - Code PODCAST

Hungry Root - Code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40

Time Timer - Code TCC

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

SHINING WITH ADHD 

EPISODE #143: Considering ADHD Medication? What Every Parent Needs to Know with Psychiatrist, Dana Reid

The Childhood Collective

2/14/2023

SUMMARY

One of the hardest parts about being a parent is making choices for the health of our children. With an abundance of information and a variety of options, knowing how to support our kids medically can be really tough. When symptoms of ADHD begin to cause distress at home or at school, the topic of medication always comes up. The internet really doesn’t do us any favors when it comes to balancing myths and facts around ADHD medication. The conversation is nuanced and as parents, we can agree that when it comes to making the best choice for each family, knowledge is power. That’s why today we’ve invited an expert in child psychiatry and ADHD to answer your questions on ADHD medication. Her insight is detailed, so grab a pen or be sure to download the transcript! 

MEET DR. DANA REID

Dr. Dana Reid is a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. She loves working with kids, teens, and adults to address their diverse needs and concerns. She has specific expertise in working with kids and parents with ADHD and anxiety. Dr. Reid is also a children's book author of the book, Danny Doesn’t Quit.

OFFERS AND AFFILIATE INFORMATION

• 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!

• 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. As always, we want to help you, so we’ve got a code for 40% off your first box.  Just click the link and use CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40 in all caps to get the discount. 

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

LINKS + RESOURCES

 Dr. Dana's Instagram

Shining at School - Code PODCAST

Hungry Root - Code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40

Time Timer - Code TCC

Episode 143 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 

EPISODE #142: The Key to Executive Functioning: Internal Skills for Kids with ADHD with Mike McLeod

The Childhood Collective

2/7/2023

SUMMARY

On our channel, you’ve probably heard us talk frequently about executive functioning. Today, we have a special guest, Mike McLeod, ADHD coach and executive function specialist, on the podcast to share about parent coaching and how to help our kids strengthen their internal skills. Listen along as we discuss teaching children how to create future pictures and equipping them with social interaction tools.

MEET MIKE

Michael McLeod is an ADHD & Executive Function Specialist. He is the owner of GrowNOW ADHD - providing Executive Function Coaching to students and parent coaching. Michael is also a Keynote Speaker and travels the country and internationally training schools, parents, and professionals on the most up to date research and strategies on Executive Functioning. Michael has been working with youth since 2005. You can find him at GrowNOWADHD.com 

OFFERS AND AFFILIATE INFORMATION

• 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!

• 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. As always, we want to help you, so we’ve got a code for 40% off your first box.  Just click the link and use CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40 in all caps to get the discount. 

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

LINKS + RESOURCES

Free Parenting Guide - 6 Keys

Creating Calm - Code PODCAST

Hungry Root - Code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40

Time Timer - Code TCC

Transcript for Episode 142

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

SHINING WITH ADHD 

EPISODE #141: Should I Tell My Child's Teacher About Their ADHD? 

The Childhood Collective

1/31/2023

SUMMARY

You’ve got your child’s diagnosis, and now you’re wondering, “Who do I tell?” and “What do they NEED to know?” You wonder, “Will this help my child or stick them with a label?” We’ve heard all these questions before, so today, we’re sharing five considerations for disclosing your child’s diagnosis with their classroom teacher. We have seen firsthand that sharing with the teacher can actually be a game-changer, fostering collaboration and making the whole education journey smoother for your kiddo. In this episode, our team shares everything you need to know about school and ADHD. 

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.

OFFERS AND AFFILIATE INFORMATION

• 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!

• 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. As always, we want to help you, so we’ve got a code for 40% off your first box.  Just click the link and use CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40 in all caps to get the discount. 

• 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 discount.

LINKS + RESOURCES

FREE Accommodations Guide

Shining at School - Code PODCAST

Hungry Root - Code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40

Zenimal

The Childhood Collective YouTube *Closed Captioning Available

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

SHINING WITH ADHD 

EPISODE #140: Unlocking Your Child's Motivation with Neuropsychologist Dr. Ellen Braaten

The Childhood Collective

1/24/2023

SUMMARY

We know that motivation is a huge issue for many ADHD families. As parents, we are desperate to help our children find their motivation.  We know the AMAZING things they are capable of, but they can't always access it. What actually drives our kids? In this episode, neuropsychologist Dr. Ellen Braaten shares how we can nurture our children and help them build confidence and skills to make significant strides toward pursuing what truly excites them. 

MEET DR. ELLEN BRAATEN

Dr. Ellen Braaten is the Executive Director of the Learning and Emotional Assessment Program (LEAP) at Massachusetts General Hospital and an Associate Professor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Braaten is widely recognized as an expert in the field of pediatric neuropsychological and psychological assessment, particularly in the areas of assessing learning disabilities and attentional disorders. She is the co-author of many books and articles for parents and professionals, including the bestselling book Bright Kids Who Can’t Keep Up. Her newest book is Bright Kids Who Couldn’t Care Less: How to Rekindle Your Child’s Motivation.

OFFERS AND AFFILIATE INFORMATION

• 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!

• 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. As always, we want to help you, so we’ve got a code for 40% off your first box.  Just click the link and use CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40 in all caps to get the discount. 

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

LINKS + RESOURCES

Dr. Ellen's Books

Shining at School - Code PODCAST

Hungry Root - Code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40

Time Timer - Code TCC

The Childhood Collective YouTube *Closed Captioning Available

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

SHINING WITH ADHD 

EPISODE #139: Boost Your Child's Executive Function with Declarative Language: One Simple Shift

The Childhood Collective

1/17/2023

SUMMARY

In addition to ALLLL the everyday tasks we do as parents, raising a kid with ADHD means we have to help build our kids’ executive functions. This can feel like a really hard job. But what a lot of parents don’t realize is that small changes to the way we speak and interact can add up to a lot of growth opportunities for our kids! In this episode, our very own Katie, a speech language pathologist, is explaining declarative language, which is a tool that you can use TODAY. Anytime or anywhere, this shift can enhance communication with and for your child! 

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.

OFFERS AND AFFILIATE INFORMATION

• 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!

• 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. As always, we want to help you, so we’ve got a code for 40% off your first box.  Just click the link and use CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40 (in all caps) to get the discount.

• 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.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Free Parenting Guide - 6 Keys

Creating Calm - Code PODCAST

Hungry Root - Code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE40

Time Timer - Code TCC

The Childhood Collective YouTube *Closed Captioning Available

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

SHINING WITH ADHD 

EPISODE #138: An Episode for Kids (And Their Grown-Ups!): ADHD and Big Emotions With Katelyn Mabry

The Childhood Collective

12/06/2023

SUMMARY

Can you believe it's our last episode of the year? As we head into a holiday break, we will be taking some time with our own families. Before we do that, we're switching things up and doing something super cool—a chat for both parents AND kids! We've got the amazing Katelyn Mabry, the brilliant creator of the children's podcast, 'Journey with Me Through ADHD,' joining us for today's episode. Katelyn has a passion for speaking to the hearts and minds of children, so this episode is designed for kids to listen to *with* a trusted adult. 

We know that everyone is in a different place with their ADHD journey, so parents, listen to the episode first and then invite your kiddos in. In this episode, we talk about the magic of ADHD and the need for a little extra help when it comes to managing BIG feelings.

MEET KATELYN

Katelyn Mabry is an ADHD life coach who is also a special educator with a master’s in Reading. She is the author of “Hi It’s Me! I have ADHD” and the podcast host of “Journey With Me Through ADHD: A podcast for kids. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband and 4 young kids. Her passion is to speak into the hearts and minds of children and families with ADHD so they feel connected, supported, and understood! 

AFFILIATE INFORMATION

Bedtime can be SO tough for kids with ADHD. Zenimal helps our kids rest and reset. That is why we LOVE Zenimal. This tool helps our kids rest and reset. When bedtime rolls around, we use this screen-free meditation tool for EACH of our kids (really, we do!). It’s amazing for kids who are anxious or need help calming their busy bodies before bed. The best part? Each meditation ends with the most beautiful message: “You’re a good kid!” Use our code: TCC for a discount.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Zenimals Website: use code: TCC for a discount! 

Katelyn's Instagram

Hi, It's Me, I Have ADHD Book

Journey With Me Podcast      

The Childhood Collective Instagram

The Childhood Collective YouTube *Closed Captioning Available

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