Episodes

  • 175: How to Help a Child with ADHD Focus—Without the Daily Battles

    175: How to Help a Child with ADHD Focus—Without the Daily Battles
    Sep 11 2025
    In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay challenges one of the most common myths about ADHD—that kids with ADHD simply can’t focus. As a Board-Certified Health and Nutrition Practitioner, Dana unpacks what focus really is, explaining how skills like impulse control, working memory, and planning all come together to create what we think of as “attention.” She also explores how these skills develop at different ages and why setting realistic expectations is so important. From brain science to real-world parenting strategies, Dana shares the foundational pillars—diet, sleep, movement, and stress reduction—that set the stage for focus. She also offers practical, everyday tools parents can start using right away, including games that build focus, reducing environmental stressors, and safe supplementation. This episode is full of encouragement and actionable steps that will help parents feel less overwhelmed and more empowered to support their child’s unique ADHD brain. Link Mentioned in the Show: Free Focus Game Guide - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/free-download-focus-game-guide Curcumin Supplement - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/curcumasorb-mind-60-capsules.html Optimal Focus Supplement - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/optimal-focus-90-capsules.html Functional Lab Testing (heavy metals, gut-brain connection, zinc/copper ratio) - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-83/ ADHD Diet Part 1 - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-5/ ADHD Diet Part 2 - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-6/ Key Takeaways: [04:21] Redefining what focus really is (not just “paying attention”). [07:02] Developmental stages of focus and why kids aren’t “behind”—their brains may simply not be ready yet. [11:15] How setting realistic expectations can reduce stress and power struggles at home. [14:48] Why diet, sleep, and movement are essential foundations for attention and self-regulation. [18:09] Environmental and internal stressors that sabotage focus—and how to reduce them. [21:32] Fun, brain-building games that improve focus in just 15 minutes a day. [25:14] How supplements like Curcumin and Optimal Focus can provide added support. [28:50] Why celebrating small wins helps build long-term confidence and resilience. Memorable Moments: "If you've been told to just accept that your child with ADHD can't focus, this episode will flip that script." "What looks like distraction or defiance is often a brain waiting for the right support." "Sometimes we expect our kids to focus at a level their brain literally isn't ready for yet." "Focus isn't just sitting still and staring at a teacher or a workbook—it's a bunch of different skills working together." "Diet, sleep, and movement are absolutely essential for setting the stage for focus." "When kids are constantly in fight-or-flight mode, it's almost impossible for them to focus." "Fifteen minutes of focus-building games a day can do more than an hour of nagging." "Focus isn’t built overnight—it’s built in small moments." "Even little changes can have a big ripple effect over time." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstituteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
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    16 mins
  • 174: ADHD, Homework, and Executive Function with Ann Dolin

    174: ADHD, Homework, and Executive Function with Ann Dolin
    Sep 3 2025
    In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay sits down with Ann Dolin, an award-winning educator, author, and expert in ADHD, executive function, and academic coaching. Together, they unpack one of the most common and stressful challenges for families raising kids with ADHD—homework. With over three decades of experience helping children who think and learn differently, Ann shares practical, tested strategies to reduce homework battles, build executive function skills, and bring more calm to busy evenings. Dana Kay, a Board-Certified Health and Nutrition Practitioner and founder of the ADHD Thrive Institute, approaches this topic as both a professional and a parent who’s been in the trenches. Whether your child procrastinates, feels overwhelmed by multi-step directions, or struggles to get started, you’ll walk away with actionable advice you can use tonight to make homework time more peaceful and productive. Link Mentioned in the Show: Educational Connections – https://ectutoring.com Book – Homework Made Simple: Tips, Tools, and Solutions for Stress-Free Homework Facebook – Educational Connections, Inc. | Alexandria VA Instagram – EC Virtual Tutoring & Coaching (@educationalconnections) YouTube – Ann Dolin Key Takeaways: [07:54] Practical tip: Break big assignments into smaller chunks and involve kids in deciding the order to build independence. [09:56] What executive function skills are and how weaknesses in these areas impact homework, focus, and emotions. [14:10] How to work collaboratively with teachers to modify homework and avoid nightly power struggles. [15:28] Why setting a homework start time is more effective than focusing only on the end time. [18:47] Using timers and the Pomodoro method to help kids with ADHD get started and stay on task. [21:05] Building confidence with specific positive feedback to shift mindset and motivation. [23:14] Stepping back and asking guiding questions instead of micromanaging homework. Memorable Moments: “It’s not always about motivation. Sometimes it’s about executive function.” “Most kids don’t want to do poorly. They just don’t know how to start.” “The number one thing that helps is structure and consistency.” “Procrastination isn’t laziness — it’s often overwhelm.” “Sometimes the best thing we can do is step back, not step in.” “A checklist is like a GPS for the brain.” “Kids with ADHD often need external reminders to manage time and tasks.” “When parents micromanage, it can actually backfire.” “Homework should never be a battle zone.” “Parents are doing the best they can with the tools they have.” How to Connect with Ann Dolin Website: https://ectutoring.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/educationalconnections/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EducationalConnectionsYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@annkdolin Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstituteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
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    27 mins
  • 173: ADHD & Sensory Processing Explained with Michael Soria

    173: ADHD & Sensory Processing Explained with Michael Soria
    Aug 28 2025
    In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay dives into some often overlooked aspects of ADHD—sensory processing challenges. She’s joined by Michael Soria, a global special education consultant and dad of a neurodivergent child, who brings over 35 years of insight and heart to the conversation. If your child melts down in the cereal aisle or fights over wearing socks, it may not be “just ADHD”—it could be their sensory system crying out for help. Dana and Michael explore how sensory overload can mimic or magnify ADHD symptoms, and what parents and educators can do to support these children more effectively. Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of the three hidden senses (vestibular, proprioception, and interoception), how to distinguish behavior from sensory triggers, and four powerful Cs—Consistency, Calm Transitions, Communication, and Compassion—for building a more supportive home and school environment. Link Mentioned in the Show: Sensory Toys & Products from Playlearn: https://playlearn.comContact Michael: michael@playlearn.comConnect with Michael on LinkedIn Key Takeaways: [04:56] Learn about the three hidden senses often overlooked in ADHD care [09:05] Sensory red flags at home—like picky eating or trouble finishing meals [16:25] The power of the 95-point sensory checklist to clarify what’s really going on [22:05] Michael’s “4 Cs” for supporting children with ADHD and sensory challenges [29:38] How a custom calming space or a “comfort portfolio” can change behavior in the moment Memorable Moments: “What if your child isn’t misbehaving — their sensory system is just overwhelmed?” “Transitions are where most antecedents become behavior problems.” “The best activities you can do with your kids are the ones they tell you they like the most.” “Even if they don’t have sensory challenges, every child benefits from calming tools.” “Teachers are experts in loving our students, and that’s invaluable.” “How cool would it be if I’m having a meltdown and I open a little book and see a photo of me and my dog?” “Knowledge is power—and so is community.” “If we do this activity at school, parents please also do it at home.” “We’re not looking at the behavior; we should be looking at what caused the behavior.” “When your kid screams over socks... it might not be bad behavior.” How to Connect to Caz: 📧 Email: michael@playlearn.com 💼 LinkedIn: Michael Soria on LinkedIn 🌐 Playlearn: https://playlearn.com Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstituteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
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    41 mins
  • 172: Is It ADHD or Sleep Apnea? with Kirk Huntsman

    172: Is It ADHD or Sleep Apnea? with Kirk Huntsman
    Aug 21 2025
    Could your child’s ADHD symptoms actually be caused by something else entirely—like undiagnosed pediatric sleep apnea? In this compelling episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay is joined by Kirk Huntsman, CEO and co-founder of Vivos Therapeutics. Together, they unpack the often-overlooked connection between sleep and behavior, revealing how disrupted sleep patterns—especially obstructive sleep apnea—can mimic or even contribute to ADHD symptoms in children. Dana and Kirk explore the biological and developmental reasons behind sleep-related misdiagnoses, warning signs parents should look out for, and new, non-invasive treatment options that go far beyond medication or surgery. If your child still struggles with focus, energy, or meltdowns—this episode is essential listening. You’ll walk away with a new lens on your child’s behavior and practical tools to uncover and address hidden sleep issues that could be holding them back. Links Mentioned in the Show: Visit vivos.com to learn more about Vivos Therapeutics Key Takeaways: [0:00] Introduction: When ADHD Isn’t ADHD [2:06] Meet Kirk Huntsman of Vivos [3:46] What Is Pediatric Sleep Apnea? [4:37] Overlap Between ADHD and Sleep Symptoms [7:20] Warning Signs Parents Should Watch For [16:55] Developmental Clues You Might Be Missing [23:46] Long-Term Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea [31:31] Non-Invasive Treatment Options [42:29] Final Advice for Parents Memorable Moments: "Your child wakes up tired, loses focus by mid-morning, spirals emotionally by lunch—and everyone's telling you it's ADHD." "They've actually taken kids known to have ADHD and put them in a playground with kids who have sleep disorders—and the experts couldn’t tell them apart." "ADHD is actually meant to be a diagnosis of exclusion." "A child that becomes hyperactive shows up at school and becomes that kid that the teacher can't control." "Mouth breathing is one of the early signals that there's a problem.” "Breathing should be silent, consistent, and through the nose—not through the mouth." "Putting a child in braces that already has compromised oral development can make the problem worse." "We were designed to be obligate nasal breathers." "Night terrors are not normal." "The number one action? Get your child tested." How to Connect with Kirk Huntsman Website: www.vivos.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivos_life/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirkhuntsmanAirway Queen - https://www.instagram.com/theairwayqueenAirway Dentist - https://www.instagram.com/airway_dentist Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstituteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
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    48 mins
  • 171: ADHD Starts in the Gut with Dana Kay

    171: ADHD Starts in the Gut with Dana Kay
    Aug 14 2025
    In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay—Board-Certified Health and Nutrition Practitioner and founder of the ADHD Thrive Institute—dives deep into one of the most misunderstood underlying stressors of ADHD symptoms: gut health. While ADHD is often labeled as a brain-based disorder, this episode reveals how gut imbalances, inflammation, and neurotransmitter disruptions could be fueling your child’s symptoms—like mood swings, focus struggles, and emotional dysregulation. Dana shares the latest science on the gut-brain connection and breaks down practical, evidence-based strategies that families can start using right away—from healing leaky gut to choosing the right supplements. Whether your child is currently on medication, recently diagnosed, or you’re just searching for real solutions, this episode offers a powerful new lens on how to support your child naturally, from the inside out. Links Mentioned in the Show: Leaky Gut episode - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-80/Leaky Gut Guide - https://bit.ly/4dTcpyZGut Restoration Cheat Sheet - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplement-for-adhd-gut-restoration-bundleThe ADHD Diet, Part 1 (podcast episode) - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-5/The ADHD Diet, Part 2 (podcast episode) - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-6/Food Sensitivities & ADHD (article) - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/2022/07/16/food-sensitivities-adhd/My Favorite Place to Buy Supplements - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/supplementsGut Restoration Bundle - https://shop.adhdthriveinstitute.com/danakay-bundle001.htmlSchedule a free call with my team - https://bit.ly/3X5ZVvT Links to Previous Episodes in this Supplements for ADHD Series: Magnesium - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-93/Saffron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-136/GABA - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-137/L-Theanine - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-142/Bio Essentials - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-144/Omegas - ​​ https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-146/Iron - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-148/Zinc - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-152/Vitamin D - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-150/Zembrin - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-154/Herbs - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-156/Why Most Popular Multivitamins Don’t Work - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-158/Gut Restore Essentials - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-161/Vitamin B - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-165/ Key Takeaways: [0:00] Why ADHD Is More Than a Brain Issue [2:12] The Gut-Brain Superhighway [4:05] Neurotransmitters Made in the Gut [6:01] How Gut Imbalances Amplify ADHD Symptoms [8:16] Understanding Leaky Gut in Kids [10:45] How Meds Miss the Root Cause [13:30] Supplements That Actually Help [16:55] Six Steps to Start Healing the Gut [20:21] Why Testing Can Provide Clarity [23:14] Support and Encouragement for Parents Memorable Moments: "If your gut isn’t thriving, your brain won’t thrive either." "Approximately 80% of the body’s entire immune system is within the gut wall." "The gut is ground zero for so many chronic conditions, including ADHD." "Gut dysbiosis has been linked to a wide range of chronic illnesses from autoimmune disorders to neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD." "90 to 95% of the body’s serotonin is actually produced in the gut." "Our guts talk to our brains as well." "To focus on the brain and not the gut, in my opinion, is counterproductive." "Let’s stop shooting water at smoke and start getting to the underlying issues." "This bundle includes Pro Essentials, Pre Essentials, and Mucosa Essentials." "Healing the gut isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress." Dana Kay Resources: 🔗WEBSITES: https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/https://dana-kay.com/ 👋SOCIALS: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstituteLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute 📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK: Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/ 💻FREE MASTERCLASS Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhdADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
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    31 mins
  • 170: The ADHD Meltdowns Finally Stopped - Karla Shares Her Story

    170: The ADHD Meltdowns Finally Stopped - Karla Shares Her Story
    Aug 7 2025

    In this week’s episode of The Soaring Child, host Dana Kay speaks with Karla, a courageous mother who transformed her family’s life after years of chaos, tantrums, and emotional turmoil. In this episode, Karla shares her raw, emotional journey—from feeling hopeless and questioning her ability as a mother, to finally discovering the underlying stressors that were exacerbating her daughter’s outbursts and meltdowns. Spoiler alert: the answer wasn’t another parenting strategy!

    Dana Kay, a Board-Certified Holistic Health and Nutrition Practitioner and mom to a child with ADHD, guides families in naturally reducing ADHD symptoms. Together, she and Karla explore how something as simple as removing gluten and adding in other natural strategies made a massive difference in emotional regulation, family connection, and daily happiness. This episode is a must-listen for any parent searching for real, sustainable solutions.

    Link Mentioned in the Show:
    Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Fast Class - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl


    Key Takeaways:
    [3:09] Introduction to Karla’s Story
    [5:02] Early Signs and Misdiagnoses
    [8:22] The Cycle of Desperation and Doubt
    [7:31] The Turning Point: Discovering the Podcast
    [12:42] First Steps: Removing Gluten
    [14:28] Immediate Results and Emotional Shifts
    [17:03] New Family Dynamic and School Progress
    [21:24] Practical Advice for Parents Starting Out

    Memorable Moments:
    "No matter what discipline approach we took, it didn’t work."

    "I was feeling awful about the feelings I had about my daughter."

    "I pulled over, I prayed a desperate prayer."

    "I found this new podcast and this is it."

    "The next day she woke up happy."

    "She has not woken up in a bad mood since that day."

    "I just said, we’re never going back."

    "We’re so adaptable… we’ll figure it out."

    "Just try it. It sounds hard, but you can do it."

    Dana Kay Resources:

    🔗WEBSITES:

    • https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
    • https://dana-kay.com/

    👋SOCIALS:

    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
    • Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
    • Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

    📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

    • Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

    💻FREE MASTERCLASS

    • Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

    ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

    • ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
    • ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
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    22 mins
  • 169: Creating Your ADHD Family Playbook with Caz Pringle-Bowden

    169: Creating Your ADHD Family Playbook with Caz Pringle-Bowden
    Jul 31 2025

    In this episode of The Soaring Child, host Dana Kay welcomes back counselor, neurodiversity educator, and yoga facilitator Caz Pringle-Bowden for a deep dive into a transformative concept for ADHD families — the Family Operational Manual. If parenting your child with ADHD often feels like chaos without a game plan, this episode offers a unique and practical tool that could change the way your household operates.

    Dana and Caz explore how understanding each family member’s brain wiring can shift a household from reactive to regulated. With real-life examples, creative metaphors, and small, actionable tips, they walk you through how to create a shared playbook tailored to your family’s needs — helping you move from daily friction to connection and confidence.

    Link Mentioned in the Show:

    Caz’s first Soaring Child Podcast episode on Equine-Assisted Therapy - https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/podcast/soaring-child-episode-155/

    Free Breakfast Guide - https://bit.ly/4b98NZe

    Key Takeaways:
    [3:14] Introduction to the ADHD Family Manual
    [4:10] Understanding Brain Differences Through Metaphors
    [6:20] Creating Shared Language in Families
    [10:20] Practical Steps for Manual Creation
    [19:35] The Importance of a System Over Discipline

    Memorable Moments:
    If parenting your child with ADHD feels like coaching a team that doesn't know the rules or the plays or even what sport they're playing, you are definitely not alone.

    You’re yelling instructions, your partner is doing something else entirely, and your kids are off in the corner melting down.

    The operational manual is sort of like a brilliant metaphor for externalizing a person's pathway to best and calmest functioning.

    If we are in a calm, regulated state, we can really enjoy ourselves.

    We're supposed to move in and out of those states, but ultimately we do want to set things up for success.

    This isn't a discipline issue, it's a systems issue.

    Creating a family operational manual removes assumptions and builds understanding.

    Authenticity is contagious.

    It’s not bad. It’s not them doing anything wrong. It’s just the wiring.

    Rome wasn't built in a day, listeners. Remember that one.

    How to Connect to Caz:

    • Website: https://www.cazpringlebowden.com.au/

    Dana Kay Resources:

    🔗WEBSITES:

    • https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
    • https://dana-kay.com/

    👋SOCIALS:

    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
    • Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
    • Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

    📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

    • Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

    💻FREE MASTERCLASS

    • Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

    ⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

    • ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
    • ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
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    34 mins
  • 168: Lunchbox Solutions for ADHD Kids with Andrea Daigle

    168: Lunchbox Solutions for ADHD Kids with Andrea Daigle
    Jul 23 2025

    In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay welcomes back Andrea Daigle, a seasoned ADHD coach at the ADHD Thrive Institute. Together, they delve into the challenges parents face when sending their children with ADHD back to school, especially concerning dietary needs and peer interactions. They discuss strategies to empower children to understand and advocate for their unique dietary requirements, ensuring they feel confident and included during school meals.

    Dana Kay, a board-certified holistic health and nutrition practitioner, is dedicated to helping families navigate the complexities of ADHD through natural approaches. Andrea Daigle brings her expertise in early childhood development and personal experience as a parent to the conversation, offering practical advice on preparing ADHD-friendly lunches, communicating with school staff, and fostering resilience in children. This episode is a must-listen for parents seeking actionable tips to support their child's well-being during the school year.

    Links Mentioned in the Show:

    Schedule a free call with the ADHD Thrive Institute - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/meet

    Key Takeaways:

    [3:28] Back-to-School Challenges

    [3:41] Importance of School Communication

    [4:20] Empowering Children Through Role-Playing

    [7:21] Emotional Support During Mealtimes

    [8:29] Practical Lunchbox Ideas

    [14:38] Handling Dietary Slip-Ups

    [18:31] Strategies for Maintaining Focus

    [21:30] Final Tips and Resources

    Memorable Moments:

    "Back-to-school season can really feel like a minefield when you're trying to support your child's ADHD naturally."

    "Empower your children to understand why they are eating differently and help them advocate for themselves.”

    "Food is deeply social for kids, and when they can't share the same snacks, it can trigger feelings of embarrassment or isolation."

    "Let them choose the foods they love to go in their lunchbox; it gives them a sense of control."

    "It's not just about the food; it's about building self-awareness, confidence, and resilience.

    "Creating a safe snack box at school can be a lifesaver during unexpected situations."

    "Hydration, sleep, and a balanced diet are key to helping children stay focused in school."

    "Don't forget to add a treat in their lunchbox; it helps them feel included."

    "If they eat something outside their diet, use it as a learning experience, not a punishment."

    "Our goal is to raise confident, resilient children who can feel good and proud of themselves."

    How to Connect with Andrea Daigle:

    Schedule a free call with the ADHD Thrive Institute team here - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/meet

    Dana Kay Resources:

    🔗WEBSITES:

    • https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/

    • https://dana-kay.com/

    👋SOCIALS:

    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/

    • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/

    • Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/

    • Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

    📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

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