Videos

Watch a short animated video to explain neurodiversity to children in under 2 minutes! - Dr Tamara Soles

Source - ECA

This animation is designed to support educators to create respectful and mindful meal times through being available to the children and supporting their individual needs. - ECA

This animation will focus on practical ideas on how educators can support children by slowing down and demonstrates the importance of being present in the moment. - ECA

In this video, educators detail how positive relationships in quality early learning services connect children to their world. All children experience learning that is engaging and builds success for life. Fundamental to the Early Years Learning Framework for Australia is a view of children’s lives as characterised by belonging, being and becoming. - ACECQA

This video highlights some of the key points on inclusion in the National Quality Framework and considers what an authorised officer may observe, discuss and sight about your inclusive practices when visiting your service. - ACECQA

This video features an educator, parent and four children interacting in a small group experience with clay and natural materials in an outdoor environment. It shows resources and materials being used to support exploration and play-based learning. - ACECQA

Did you know that over 62% of people with dyslexia have other learning buddies tagging along? It's true! Dyspraxia, the inattentive side of ADHD, ASD, and ODD are some of the most common roommates dyslexia shares its space with. But fear not, fellow explorer of the learning landscape!

It's about understanding your unique learning style and finding the tools to navigate it with confidence.

Think of it as building a personalized learning toolbox, filled with strategies and support that work best for you.

Remember, you're not alone in this adventure. Millions of people learn differently, and there's a whole community out there ready to cheer you on!

Let's celebrate the diversity of minds and build a world where every learner can thrive.

Dyspraxia: The Invisible Tightrope Walk

Imagine living in a world where simple movements feel like a constant tightrope walk, where your brain and body don't quite seem to be on the same page. This is the reality for people with dyspraxia, a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects motor skills and coordination.

Dyspraxia isn't about clumsiness; it's about the brain struggling to plan and execute motor tasks. This can manifest in many ways, from difficulties with:

• Fine motor skills: Writing, tying shoelaces, using utensils

• Gross motor skills: Walking, running, catching a ball, riding a bike

• Handwriting: Messy, illegible writing, difficulty with spacing and grip

• Organization: Difficulty planning and sequencing tasks

• Speech and language: Stuttering, slurred speech, difficulty with word retrieval

But dyspraxia isn't just about physical challenges. It can also impact:

• Self-esteem: Feeling frustrated and discouraged by everyday tasks

• Social interactions: Anxiety about participating in physical activities or sports

• Learning: Difficulty with tasks like handwriting or copying from the board

Living with dyspraxia is a daily challenge, but it's important to remember:

Dyspraxia is not a disability, it's a difference. People with dyspraxia can be highly intelligent, creative, and resourceful.

There is help available! Occupational therapy, physical therapy, and assistive technology can make a big difference in managing symptoms and improving daily life.

Early diagnosis and intervention are key. The sooner dyspraxia is identified, the better the chances of success with treatment.

Here are some ways to support someone with dyspraxia:

• Be patient and understanding. Learning new skills takes time and practice.

• Offer specific help and guidance. Don't just say "try harder," offer concrete steps to break down tasks.

• Celebrate successes, no matter how small. Every step forward is a victory.

• Raise awareness about dyspraxia. Help break down the stigma and create a more inclusive world.

Remember, dyspraxia may be a challenge, but it doesn't define you. With the right support and understanding, people with dyspraxia can achieve anything they set their minds to.

The ADHD Tax: A Hidden Cost of Living

Imagine constantly feeling like you're behind, like you're paying an invisible tax for simply having ADHD. That's the ADHD tax, a term used to describe the extra costs, both financial and emotional, that people with ADHD face every day.

Here's how it adds up:

Late fees: Missed deadlines, forgotten appointments, and misplaced bills can rack up late fees and penalties.

Impulse spending: The urge to buy something shiny right now can lead to financial regret later.

Lost productivity: Trouble focusing and staying on task can hurt your job performance or academic success.

Strained relationships: Misunderstandings, forgetfulness, and emotional dysregulation can take a toll on your relationships.

Health problems: The stress of managing ADHD can contribute to anxiety, depression, and even physical health problems.

It's not just about money. The ADHD tax can also take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. It can make you feel like you're constantly failing, which can lead to low self-esteem and social isolation.

But there is hope! With proper support and strategies, you can manage your ADHD and reduce the impact of the tax. Here are a few tips:

Get organised: Use planners, calendars, and reminders to stay on top of tasks.

Build routines: Create consistent schedules for sleep, meals, and work to help regulate your day.

Practice mindfulness: Meditation and yoga can help you focus and manage stress.

Seek support: Talk to a therapist or counselor who specializes in ADHD.

Connect with others: Find a community of people who understand what you're going through.

Remember, you're not alone. Millions of people around the world live with ADHD. By understanding the ADHD tax and taking steps to manage it, you can live a happier and more fulfilling life.

Ever feel like you're on a different planet than everyone else?

Growing up with ADHD can feel like being stuck in a constant game of social catch-up. We miss the unspoken cues, blurt out the wrong things, and struggle to fit in.

But here's the good news: you're not alone. And it doesn't have to be that way!

In this video, we'll talk about:

• The unique challenges ADHD brains face in the social world.

• How those challenges can lead to anxiety and self-doubt.

• Simple, actionable tips to overcome those challenges and build meaningful connections.

• No more feeling like you're on the outside looking in!

Discover how to:

• Navigate social situations with confidence.

• Make friends who truly understand you.

• Embrace your ADHD superpower and turn it into your social advantage.

This video explores the relationship between ADHD and the executive system, arguing that ADHD is not primarily an attention disorder but rather an "intention deficit disorder."

Key points:

The video introduces three key concepts for understanding ADHD: inhibition (stopping behaviour), self-regulation (directing behaviour towards oneself), and executive function (actions taken on oneself to change future behaviour).

Each of these five executive abilities develops sequentially over time, with the first appearing at around 3 months of age and the final one reaching maturity around 30 years old.

ADHD is characterized by a 30-40% lag in this development, leading to difficulties with:

• Controlling impulses and responding to immediate rewards over delayed gratification.

• Using past experiences (hindsight) to inform future decisions (foresight).

• Self-regulating behavior through internal rules and language.

• Generating multiple solutions and planning for the future.

This inability to "look ahead" and organize for the future is what the speaker argues makes ADHD an "intention deficit disorder."

People with ADHD struggle to maintain goals and organize their behavior across time, leading to difficulties with planning, time management, and following through on tasks.

Unlocking the Power of Self-Regulation: Dr. Barkley's Theory of Executive Functioning in ADHD

Ever wonder how our brains manage our thoughts, actions, and emotions? Dr. Barkley's groundbreaking theory of executive functioning (EF) sheds light on this intricate dance, particularly in the context of ADHD.

Imagine EF as a multi-layered orchestra. Each instrument, representing an EF skill, plays a crucial role in the overall symphony of self-regulation. This symphony helps us achieve long-term goals, prioritize tasks, navigate challenges, and ultimately, thrive.

But how does EF relate to ADHD? Dr. Barkley argues that EF deficits play a central role in the disorder. He defines EF as an "action-to-the-self", meaning it's our internal compass, guiding us towards desired outcomes.

Think of a child impulsively reaching for a cookie. An underdeveloped EF would be like a weak conductor, unable to stop the impulsive action and guide the child towards healthy alternatives.

Dr. Barkley identifies 7 core EFs:

• Activation: Initiating and sustaining effort. (Imagine a conductor raising the baton, ready to start the performance.)

• Planning: Setting goals and formulating strategies. (The score, guiding the orchestra through each movement.)

• Inhibition: Stopping unwanted thoughts or actions. (A timely pause in the music, preventing chaos.)

• Time Management: Estimating duration and pacing activities accordingly. (The conductor's metronome, keeping everyone in sync.)

• Emotional Control: Managing emotions and responding appropriately. (The orchestra's dynamics, adjusting to emotional shifts in the music.)

• Shifting: Flexibly transitioning between tasks or ideas. (The conductor seamlessly moving from one section of the piece to another.)

• Working Memory: Holding information in mind for immediate use. (The music stand, providing quick reference during the performance.)

These 7 EFs, through complex interactions, eventually condense into 5 observable skill sets in daily life:

• Problem solving: Analysing situations and formulating solutions.

• Goal-directed persistence: Staying focused and motivated until goals are reached.

• Emotional regulation: Managing emotions effectively in different situations.

• Self-monitoring: Awareness of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.

• Flexibility: Adapting to changing demands and circumstances.

Understanding Dr. Barkley's theory of EF empowers us to:

Better understand ADHD challenges: By recognising the underlying EF deficits, we can develop targeted interventions and support strategies.

Promote self-regulation skills: Through various training techniques, individuals with ADHD can strengthen their EFs and gain greater control over their behaviour.

Build a more supportive environment: Recognising the role of EF in ADHD can help families, educators, and professionals create environments that foster self-regulation and success.

This video dives deep into why BPT works for families with ADHD, exploring:

The rationale behind BPT: Discover how parent training empowers families to manage ADHD symptoms at home, creating a more positive and productive environment for everyone.

Popular BPT programs: We'll break down the key features of publicly available programs like Incredible Years, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and Barkley's Barkley's Defiant Children (BCD).

Why they work: Uncover the commonalities between these programs that contribute to their effectiveness, regardless of specific techniques.

Limitations and potential side effects: We'll discuss BPT's limitations and potential downsides for certain families, ensuring you have all the information to make informed choices.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodivergent condition characterized by persistent inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. One of the common challenges faced by individuals with ADHD is chronic tardiness, often stemming from a combination of factors like:

• Time blindness: Difficulty managing and accurately estimating time.

• Organizational challenges: Struggles with organizing tasks and gauging completion time.

• Distractibility: Easily losing focus and getting sidetracked.

• Procrastination: Tendency to delay or postpone tasks.

These interconnected elements can lead to a consistent pattern of lateness, impacting various aspects of life:

Professional Life:

• Strained workplace relationships: Consistent lateness can damage trust and professional reputation.

• Hindered career progression: Missed deadlines and unreliable performance can limit advancement opportunities.

• Loss of professional opportunities: Unpunctuality can lead to missed meetings, presentations, and deadlines.

Personal Life:

• Perceived disrespect or lack of interest: Lateness can strain friendships, family bonds, and romantic relationships.

• Increased stress and anxiety: The constant struggle with time can be emotionally draining.

• Reduced self-esteem and confidence: Chronic lateness can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness.

Fortunately, there are strategies to manage ADHD-related tardiness effectively:

Structured Approaches:

Time-management techniques: Break tasks down, set realistic goals, utilize timers, build in time buffers to reduce procrastination and improve punctuality.

Reminders and alarms: Set external cues to initiate task transition and prevent getting lost in the moment.

Treatment Modalities:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Address underlying issues related to time management and organization.

Medication: Manage symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, potentially improving time management skills.

By understanding the core challenges of ADHD and implementing supportive strategies, individuals can significantly mitigate the impact of tardiness on their lives. Remember, managing ADHD is a journey, and seeking professional help can be invaluable in developing effective coping mechanisms and living a fulfilling life.

Additional Tips:

Communicate openly: Explain your challenges with time management to colleagues, friends, and family members to foster understanding and support.

Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge and reward yourself for progress, no matter how small, to maintain motivation and build confidence.

Seek support groups or online communities: Connect with others who understand your struggles and share experiences and tips for managing ADHD-related tardiness.

Remember, you're not alone in this. With dedication and the right tools, you can overcome the challenges of ADHD-related tardiness and thrive in all aspects of your life.

Creator: The Mini ADHD Coach

Topics Covered:

The impact of ADHD on work:

Difficulty focusing, managing time, and organising workloads can lead to missed deadlines, poor quality work, and project completion challenges.

The "constant hobby change" phenomenon:

Novelty-seeking and hyperfocus can lead to intense, short-lived interests and struggles with boredom.

The mixed experience of grocery shopping:

Some find it stimulating, while others struggle with focus, organisation, and decision-making in that environment.

The potential impact of ADHD on driving:

Attention, impulse control, and decision-making challenges can increase accident risks for some individuals.

The time management struggles:

Prioritisation, time estimation, and following through on plans can be difficult for people with ADHD, leading to missed deadlines and inefficiencies.

The financial management challenges:

Organization, planning, and impulse control can make it difficult to keep track of bills, budget, and avoid impulsive spending.

Sources:

Barkley, R. A. (2010). Taking Charge of Adult ADHD. New York: Guilford Press.

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (2021). Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.