SHINING WITH ADHD

#195: Why ADHD Sleep Problems Happen and How You Can Help: Practical Strategies from A Sleep Expert

The Childhood Collective

4/30/2025

SUMMARY

Is your child dealing with ADHD sleep problems? Many children with ADHD have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking too early. The truth is, it can be incredibly difficult for the entire family. Today, we have the honor of talking with Dr. Roberto Olivardia, a leading expert on ADHD and sleep, to uncover why these challenges happen—and, more importantly, how you can help. Effortlessly combining the science of sleep with humor and creative ideas, Dr. Olivardia shares innovative sleep strategies for ADHD that can make nights (and mornings!) easier for you.

MEET DR. OLIVARDIA

Dr. Roberto Olivardia is a Clinical Psychologist, Clinical Associate at McLean Hospital and Lecturer in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He is on the Scientific Advisory Board for ADDitude, as well as sits on the Professional Advisory Boards for Children and Adults with ADHD (CHADD), the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA), and is a Featured Expert for Understood. He presents at many conferences, podcasts and webinars around the country.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #195 Transcript

Contact Dr. Olivarida

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Shining at School

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!

Shining at School Course

Hungryroot

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. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Zenimal

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 15% off discount.

Zenimal

SHINING WITH ADHD

#194: ADHD and Hygiene: How to Problem-Solve Daily Struggles Together

The Childhood Collective

4/23/2025

SUMMARY

Struggling to get your child to brush their teeth, put on deodorant, or take a shower without a battle? You’re not alone! In today’s episode of Shining with ADHD, we’re talking all about hygiene—and how to make it easier for kids with ADHD. We’re sharing practical strategies, tackling sensory sensitivities, and sharing real tips from our listeners that have actually worked in their homes. Tune in for a collaborative, problem-solving approach that will help your child build independence (without the daily power struggles)!

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.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #194 Transcript

Printables

Time Timer

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Time Timer

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.

Time Timer

Hungryroot

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. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Creating Calm Course

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!

Creating Calm Course

SHINING WITH ADHD

#193: Birds & Bees: How to Talk to Kids with ADHD About Sex, Bodies, and Boundaries

The Childhood Collective

4/16/2025

SUMMARY

Heads up, parents—this episode includes anatomically correct terms, so if little ears are around, you might want to pop in your headphones for this one! Talking to kids about their bodies and sex can feel overwhelming—but avoiding the conversation isn’t the answer. We sat down with Mary Flo and Megan from Birds & Bees to talk about how to confidently talk to kids with ADHD about sex, bodies, and boundaries. Using clear, anatomically correct language and having open, ongoing conversations helps kids feel safe and informed. If you’re wondering when or how to start, this episode is a must-listen.

MEET MARY FLO & MEGAN

In 1986, Mary Flo Ridley began presenting a popular parenting seminar in the Dallas area, teaching parents how to talk to their children about sex. Armed with medical research, personal stories, and humor, Mary Flo walks parents through very specific ways to answer their children’s early questions with confidence.

Before diving into the world of sex education, Megan was a middle school teacher. Megan is passionate about equipping and empowering parents to have healthy and age appropriate conversations with their kids about sex.

Together, Mary Flo and Megan form the dynamic duo of the Birds & Bees, fusing expertise, passion, and a touch of humor to revolutionize the way we communicate about sex education.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #193 Transcript

The Birds & Bees Online Course - use code CHILDHOODCOLLECTIVE20 for a 20% discount

Birds & Bees Instagram

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Shining at School

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!

Shining at School Course

Hungryroot

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. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Board Games for Kids with ADHD

Board games are a natural way to help kids build their executive functioning and cooperation skills. When we polled the community about your favorite board games for kids with ADHD, you gave us hundreds of ideas! We narrowed them down to the games that got the most votes, and sorted them by age. Check out our top recommendations for board games for kids with ADHD, and let us know how it goes.

Board Games for Kids with ADHD

SHINING WITH ADHD

#192: Should My Child Repeat a Grade? What Parents Need to Know About Grade Retention

The Childhood Collective

4/9/2025

SUMMARY

Is your child struggling in school, and you're wondering if they should repeat a grade? In this episode, we’re diving into the research on grade retention and why it’s often not the best solution—especially for kids with ADHD. Instead of holding kids back, we want to dig deeper and understand why they are struggling. We’ll talk about the importance of getting a full evaluation and putting the RIGHT supports in place so your child can thrive. If you’ve been wrestling with this tough decision, this episode will give you clarity, encouragement, and practical next steps!

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.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #192 Transcript

NASP Grade Retention

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Creating Calm Course

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!

Creating Calm Course

Hungryroot

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. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Customizable ADHD Printables

If you are an ADHD parent who is drowning in the chaos of forgotten lunches, lost homework, or bedtime battles…you are not alone. ADHD parents often find themselves giving hundreds of reminders that often result in yelling and frustration. Instantly download these printable routines and work with your child to create a routine that is customized to your family’s needs. Use the exclusive code “PODCAST” for 10% off!

Printables

SHINING WITH ADHD

#191: Marriage and ADHD Parenting: How to Stay on the Same Team

The Childhood Collective

4/2/2025

SUMMARY

Parenting a child with ADHD can bring so much joy… but it can also add stress to your marriage or relationship. This week, we’re talking with Lisa Rabinowitz, a marriage therapist who specializes in working with ADHD couples. Lisa shares why parenting a child with ADHD can create tension between parents. She shares how you and your partner can work together (instead of feeling like you’re on opposite teams!). Lisa gives practical tools to help you communicate better, reduce conflict, and keep your relationship strong while parenting ADHD.

MEET LISA RABINOWITZ

Lisa Rabinowitz, MA, LCPC, is a Certified Gottman and PACT Couples Therapist with over 30 years of experience in ADHD, communication, and relationships. Her book, 'Why Won’t You Stop Interrupting Me?', provides tools for couples navigating ADHD to improve connection and communication. Learn more at counselorforcouples.com.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #191 Transcript

Counselor for Couples

Lisa's Free Guide to Improve Communication

Lisa's Instagram

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Shining at School

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!

Shining at School Course

Climbing Products for Kids with ADHD

Calling all parents with energizer bunnies! With ADHD kids, the energy can be super fun and also super challenging at times. We have to be very thoughtful about giving our kids opportunities to run, climb, and move their bodies. We asked for your best climbing ideas, and you came through with amazing recommendations! We took all of your climbing favorites and compiled them into a list to share with you.

Climbing Products

Hungryroot

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. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

SHINING WITH ADHD

#190: Supporting Executive Function: What to Expect at Every Stage

The Childhood Collective

3/26/2025

SUMMARY

Today, we’re diving into executive function skills, how they typically develop, and ideas to support at each stage. It’s critical to understand that kids with ADHD are likely developing executive function skills more slowly than their peers. As parents, when we understand what is developmentally appropriate for our kids, we can set realistic expectations and support their growth!

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.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #190 Transcript

Episode #101: Introduction to Executive Functions

Episode #128: I Suspect ADHD, but My Child is Too Young for a Diagnosis

Printables

6 Keys to Raising a Happy and Independent Child with ADHD

Executive Function Skills by Age blog

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Board Games for Kids with ADHD

Board games are a natural way to help kids build their executive functioning and cooperation skills. When we polled the community about your favorite board games for kids with ADHD, you gave us hundreds of ideas! We narrowed them down to the games that got the most votes, and sorted them by age. Check out our top recommendations for board games for kids with ADHD, and let us know how it goes.

Board Games for Kids with ADHD

Hungryroot

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. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

SHINING WITH ADHD

#189: Overcoming Resistance: Helping Kids with ADHD Accept Support

The Childhood Collective

3/19/2025

SUMMARY

Is your child resistant to help, whether it’s accommodations at school, therapy, or medication for their ADHD? In this episode, we dive into why kids often struggle to accept support and how parents can foster trust and open communication. Our goal is to help your child feel empowered, not overwhelmed, when it comes to getting the help they need. This conversation is packed with tools to navigate resistance while strengthening your connection with 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.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #189 Transcript

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Customizable ADHD Printables

If you are an ADHD parent who is drowning in the chaos of forgotten lunches, lost homework, or bedtime battles…you are not alone. ADHD parents often find themselves giving hundreds of reminders that often result in yelling and frustration. Instantly download these printable routines and work with your child to create a routine that is customized to your family’s needs. Use the exclusive code “PODCAST” for 10% off!

Printables

Hungryroot

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. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Shining at School

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!

Shining at School Course

SHINING WITH ADHD

#188: “It All Makes Sense Now!” Practical Tools for ADHD Parents with Author Meredith Carder

The Childhood Collective

03/12/2025

SUMMARY

Parenting is tough, and receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult can throw in some *extra* curveballs. Today, we are thrilled to chat with ADHD author and coach Meredith Carder about her personal journey to understanding her neurodiversity. She reveals how her diagnosis has reshaped her approach to parenting, turning challenges into unique strengths. Meredith also shares realistic, self-care strategies to help parents prioritize our own mental health.

MEET MEREDITH CARDER

Meredith Carder is an ADHD coach, creator and writer. She holds a BS in psychology and MBA. As a true multi-passionate adult with ADHD, Meredith has gained varied experience over the last 20 years working in employee training and development as well as tackling several small businesses. Meredith prides herself in her ability to hold a supportive space for her clients and facilitate lasting connections in her community for ADHD adults, the Hummingbird Hive. Her recent book, It All Makes Sense Now, seeks to both validate the challenges that exist with ADHD and provide empowering strategies for personal growth.

LINKS + RESOURCES

Episode #188 Transcript

Meredith Carder Website

Meredith Carder Instagram

"It All Makes Sense Now" book

The Childhood Collective Instagram

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

Mentioned in this episode:

Hungryroot

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. For 40% off your first box, click the link below and use CHILDHOOD40 in all caps to get the discount.

Hungryroot

Time Timer

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.

Time Timer

Creating Calm Course

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!

Creating Calm Course