Episode 10 of Think Different, Teach Better explores two very different behavioural profiles: Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Conduct Disorder. We unpack what each looks like, the underlying drivers, and why understanding the difference is essential for effective support. From reducing anxiety and offering choice, to building structure and using restorative practices, this episode gives educators, parents, and professionals practical, evidence-informed strategies to help every student thrive.#ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #PDA #PathologicalDemandAvoidance #ConductDisorder #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent #InclusiveEducation #SpecialEducation #BehaviourSupport #PositiveBehaviourSupport #BehaviourStrategies #ClassroomStrategies #RestorativePractice #TeacherPodcast #EducationPodcast #TeacherTraining #StudentSupport #TeachingTips #Differentiation #MentalHealthAwareness #SchoolWellbeing #TraumaInformed #ChildBehaviour #ParentSupport #TeacherLife #EducatorLife #TeachBetter #TeacherCommunity

In this episode of Think Different, Teach Better, Charlotte and Carla dive into the intersection of trauma-informed teaching and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD).

We explore:

• How trauma impacts learning, behaviour, and classroom dynamics
• Strengths-based strategies that build safety, trust, and engagement
• Understanding ODD through a lens of autonomy, anxiety, and communication
• Practical, evidence-based approaches for reducing power struggles and supporting emotional regulation
• Real classroom case studies and resources for educators

This is a must-listen for teachers, school leaders, and anyone passionate about creating classrooms where every student—especially those with challenging behaviours—can thrive.

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NEW EPISODE ALERT!
Trauma-Informed, Strengths-Based Classrooms & Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Defiance isn’t always what it seems. Often, it’s a sign of stress, unmet needs, or trauma. In this episode, we unpack:

• How trauma shapes behaviour and learning
• What Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) really is—and why punishment doesn’t work
• Strengths-based strategies to build trust, reduce conflict, and empower students
• Real-life classroom stories of how reframing behaviour can transform outcomes

Our classrooms can be places of healing, connection, and growth—when we lead with empathy and understanding.

Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Got questions or strategies that worked for you? DM us or email thinkdifferentteachbetter@gmail.com.
Follow @thinkdifferentteachbetter for more insights.

#ThinkDifferentTeachBetter
#TraumaInformedTeaching
#StrengthsBasedEducation
#OppositionalDefiantDisorder
#ODDSupport
#ClassroomManagementStrategies
#TraumaInformedEducation
#PositiveBehaviourSupport
#NeurodiversityInEducation
#InclusiveTeaching
#TeacherWellbeing
#StudentWellbeing
#SchoolBehaviourSecrets
#BerryStreetEducationModel
#NeurodiverseClassrooms
#EducationalPsychology
#RelationshipBasedLearning
#TraumaSensitiveSchools
#TeachingWithEmpathy
#TeacherLifeAustralia
#ClassroomConnection
#BuildingResilienceInStudents
#SocialEmotionalLearning
#AutonomySupport
#StudentEngagement
#SchoolLeadership
#TeacherPodcast
#StudentCentredLearning

Tourette Syndrome, tic disorders, and trichotillomania are often misunderstood in school settings—mistaken for disruptions, attention-seeking, or behavioural issues. In this episode, we uncover what these conditions really are: neurological, often invisible, and deeply affecting for students.

We explore:

• The difference between Tourette Syndrome, Provisional Tic Disorder, and Persistent Tic Disorder

• What teachers should never do when a student is ticcing

• Practical strategies for inclusive classrooms

• Understanding trichotillomania (hair pulling) and how to support without shame

• The role of CBIT (Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics)

• Real classroom case studies that show what support can look like

Whether you're a teacher, learning support staff, or school leader, this episode is filled with evidence-based, student-centred insights to help all learners thrive.

🎧 Tune in now to rethink classroom inclusion from a neurological lens.

#ThinkDifferentTeachBetter
#TouretteSyndromeAwareness
#TicDisorders
#TrichotillomaniaSupport
#BodyFocusedRepetitiveBehaviours
#NeurodiversityInEducation
#InclusiveEducation
#TraumaInformedTeaching
#TeacherPodcast
#StudentWellbeing
#OCDandTics
#ADHDAwareness
#AutismAcceptance
#CBIT
#MentalHealthInSchools
#EducationalSupport
#TeacherLifeAustralia
#SupportEveryLearner
#NeurodivergentStudents
#ClassroomStrategies

OCD and OCPD are often confused—but they’re fundamentally different. In this episode, we break down the psychological and behavioural distinctions between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), and why understanding these differences is crucial in the classroom.

Charlotte and Carla explore how each can affect student behaviour, engagement, and wellbeing—and share practical strategies for managing anxiety, perfectionism, and rigid thinking at school. From Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to flexible success criteria and reflective journaling, this episode is packed with tools and case studies to support inclusive, compassionate teaching.

#ThinkDifferentTeachBetter
#OCDinTheClassroom

#OCPDinThe Classroom#OCPDexplained

#NeurodiversityInEducation
#TeacherPodcast
#InclusiveTeaching
#MentalHealthAwareness
#TraumaInformedTeaching
#SupportAllStudents
#PrimaryTeacherTools
#FlexibleTeaching
#MindfulEducation
#ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorder

#PerfectionismInStudents
#EmpoweredEducation
#EducationalPsychology

In this episode of Think Different, Teach Better, we unpack three common yet often misunderstood learning challenges: dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and math anxiety. You'll learn how to identify signs in the classroom, understand how these difficulties differ, and implement evidence-based strategies to support students. We also discuss the role of self-efficacy and how teacher mindset can influence student outcomes. Practical examples, toolkits, and case studies included.

#Dysgraphia #Dyscalculia #MathAnxiety #ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #NeurodiversityInEducation #InclusiveTeaching #PrimaryEducation #TeacherSupport #SelfEfficacy #LearningDifferences #VisibleLearning #CBTStrategies #MathematicsEducation

In this episode, we explore how anxiety shows up in student behaviour—and what we, as educators, can do to help. From understanding the different types of anxiety disorders to implementing practical, evidence-based strategies, Charlotte and Carla guide you through what it means to create a calm, responsive, and supportive classroom environment.

Whether it’s social anxiety, GAD, OCD, or selective mutism—this episode is full of tools you can take straight into your teaching practice. We also share a real case study and provide a range of resources you can explore further.

🎧 Tune in now to Think Different, Teach Better and empower yourself to better support anxious learners.

#ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #AnxietyInTheClassroom #Neurodiversity #InclusiveEducation #StudentWellbeing #EducationMatters #TeacherTools #SocialEmotionalLearning #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaInformedTeaching #CalmClassroom #SupportEveryLearner #PrimaryTeacherAustralia #TeacherPodcasts #MindfulTeaching

Understanding and Supporting Students with Dyslexia
Dyslexia is the most common form of neurodivergence, yet many educators feel unsure about how to support it. In this episode, we explore what dyslexia really is, how it affects learning, and how teachers can make a meaningful difference through early intervention and inclusive strategies. We also reflect on the emotional impact of dyslexia and the strengths these students bring to the classroom.

#Dyslexiaintheclassroom #Dyslexia #DyslexiaAwareness #Neurodiversity #InclusiveEducation #ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #TeachingWithEmpathy #EducationPodcast #DyslexiaSupport #StudentSuccess #TeacherTips #MultisensoryLearning

In this episode, we unpack common traits of autism spectrum disorder and how they show up in learning environments. We explore strategies for helping students navigate routines, social interactions, sensory needs, and academic challenges. We reflect on how educators can create classrooms where every student feels seen, supported, and safe.

#AutismInEducation #Neurodiversity #InclusiveClassrooms#ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #ASD #TeacherTips #AutismAwareness #StudentSupport#EducationPodcast #TeachingWithEmpathy

*This episode is slightly longer than our desired length, due to the complexity and content that needs to be covered.