In this raw and real episode, Dr. Roberto Olivardia dives into the challenges and triumphs of raising children with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences. The struggle is real, and sometimes parents feel helpless and overwhelmed when navigating these difficult waters. It’s like trying to build a bridge without the right tools.
What dads and parents want is to feel empowered, well-equipped, and supported in creating an environment where their children can thrive despite their differences. They want to know they are not alone in facing these challenges and that there is a way to support and champion their kids for who they are.
In this special episode of The Dad Central Show, hosts Ed Gough Jr. and Drew Soleyn talk with Dr. Roberto Olivardia who shares his experiences and wisdom on parenting children with neurodiversity.
Here are three big takeaways from the conversation:
Empowerment through empathy: Understanding and meeting children with ADHD and dyslexia where they are at is crucial for moving forward. Parents can lean into learning and understanding about their child’s condition and provide unwavering support.
Medication and stigmatization: Medication for ADHD is a tool, not a sign of failure. It can help individuals manage their condition and is an important part of the solution for some. Parents need to understand and not stigmatize the use of medication and work with healthcare professionals to find the best approach for their child.
Celebrating differences: Dr. Olivardia shares practical strategies, such as role plays and highlighting successful individuals with similar challenges, to empower and encourage children to embrace their differences and build self-esteem beyond academic success.
This episode will provide valuable insight and understanding of how to approach and champion children with learning differences. All parents can benefit from the conversation by gaining practical strategies and heartfelt stories to connect with their kids and support them on their unique journey.
We appreciate all the listeners of The Dad Central Show and hope this episode brings guidance and comfort to parents navigating the world of neurodiverse children. If this episode resonated with you, please take a moment to review, like, and share it with other parents who may benefit from this invaluable discussion.
As Dr. Roberto Olivardia said, “Understanding and meeting children where they are at is crucial for moving forward.” Take the time to connect with your child, understand their needs, and champion their uniqueness. It’s a journey worth taking.
About Dr. Roberto Olivardia:
Roberto Olivardia, Ph.D., is a Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Instructor of Psychology at Harvard Medical School. He maintains a private psychotherapy practice in Lexington, Massachusetts, where he specializes in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), executive functioning issues, and issues that face students with learning differences. He also specializes in the treatment of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and in the treatment of eating disorders in boys and men.
He is co-author of The Adonis Complex, a book which details the various manifestations of body image problems in men. He has appeared in publications such as Time, GQ and Rolling Stone, and he has been featured on Good Morning America, CNN and VH1. He has spoken on numerous radio shows, podcasts and webinars and presents at many talks and conferences around the country.
He currently sits on the Scientific Advisory Board for ADDitude and serves on the Professional Advisory Boards for CHADD, Attention Deficit Disorder Association and the National Association for Males with Eating Disorders. He is a featured expert on Understood and an active member of Decoding Dyslexia–Massachusetts. He is a member of the International OCD Foundation, International Dyslexia Association, Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association and the American Association of Suicidology.
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