Understanding Neurodivergent Children: Dyslexia, ADHD, Learning Difficulties & the Mental Load of Parents With Emily Fogg | E273

What if the behaviour you're seeing in your child isn't the problem, but a sign that they're struggling to learn in a way that works for their brain?

In this important conversation, Ilana is joined by teacher and education specialist Emily Fogg to explore neurodivergence, dyslexia, ADHD, learning difficulties and the often invisible mental load carried by parents. Together, they unpack what happens when children don't receive the right support and how understanding the way a child's brain works can transform confidence, learning, emotional wellbeing and family life.

What you'll hear in this episode:

• Why some children can slip through the cracks at school, even when they're clearly struggling, and what parents can look for when something doesn't feel quite right.
• The emotional journey parents can experience around diagnosis, grief, worry and uncertainty, and why having a plan can lift an enormous mental load.
• How understanding your child's individual learning style can change the way they see themselves, particularly when they've already started believing they're "bad" at reading, writing or maths.
• Why supporting a neurodivergent child is about much more than tutoring, including confidence, emotional regulation, self-efficacy and learning to advocate for themselves.
• What parents can do if they have a gut feeling their child needs extra support, including where to start and why you don't always need to wait for a formal diagnosis before taking action.

This episode is a beautiful reminder that a child who learns differently isn't a child who is less capable. Sometimes they simply need someone to understand how their brain works and give them the right tools, language and support to thrive.

And for the parents carrying the worry, the appointments, the school conversations and the constant question of "Am I doing enough?", this conversation offers reassurance that you don't have to navigate it all alone.

🎧 Listen to this important conversation with Emily Fogg at ilanak.com.au/podcast or on your favourite podcast app.

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Show Links: ilanak.com.au/podcasts/273