Back-to-school season can bring a mix of excitement and stress for parents and kids. From adjusting sleep schedules to managing new routines, there’s a lot to prepare. In this episode, Julian Saavedra answers common questions parents have about getting their kids ready for the school year. Get his tips for how to ease first-day nerves and create calm morning routines.

Julian Saavedra joins The Mama’s Den podcast for an honest conversation about learning and thinking differences in kids of color. Listen as he shares how families can support their kids’ needs at home and in school. And get tips for how to work alongside your child’s teacher. The Mama’s Den is hosted by Codie Elaine Oliver, Melanie Fiona, Ashley Chea, and Felicia LaTour.

ADHD is getting a lot of attention on social media. Some posts share helpful tips from experts. But many others share false information. In this episode, we look at how social media spreads harmful myths about ADHD. Listen as Dr. Kristin Carothers, a psychologist, talks about why these myths are dangerous and how they add to stigma and shame. Then get her advice on what parents can do to help set the record straight.

For kids with learning disabilities, summer break doesn’t need to be all about learning or just about fun. A healthy summer includes a mix of both.

Special education has many terms that can be hard to understand. You may hear them often at school meetings or even see them in learning plans. And learning what they mean can help you best support your child. In this episode, host Julian Saavedra breaks down 8 key special education terms in simple, clear language. Learn what these terms mean and how they relate to the support kids receive at school.

The U.S. Department of Education makes sure federal education laws are followed. It allocates funds to help schools provide special education programs. And it ensures that schools follow rules that protect students’ rights and give all students a fair chance at learning.  Find out how federal funding supports special education programs. And learn what to do if your child’s school isn’t providing support.

When a child seems sad, anxious, or distant, it can be hard to know how to help. But learning how to recognize signs like changes in mood, sleep, or behavior is a great first step.  Karen Wilson, PhD, joins the show to break down the connection between mental health and kids with learning and thinking differences. Find out how learning challenges can cause feelings of anxiety or depression. And get tips on how to support your child through tough times.

Dyslexia is a common learning and thinking difference that makes it difficult for kids to read and process words. And in communities of color, these challenges are often missed for many reasons. Lack of teacher training and limited access to early testing are just a few examples. In this episode, we talk to Shaquala Holmes, MEd.  Shaquala has spent her career helping students become better readers. Listen as she breaks down what can happen when dyslexia isn’t diagnosed early and why testing matters. Then find out how parents can support their children at home and in school.

When a child is diagnosed with a learning and thinking difference, their parents often focus all their energy on helping. Like advocating for their child, or figuring out what support is needed. With so much to juggle, it's easy for parents to lose sight of their own mental well-being. In this episode, Julian talks with Dr. Monica Johnson. Dr. Johnson, also known as “Dr. J,” is a psychologist and the host of Understood.org’s “ADHD and” podcast. Listen as Dr. J breaks down emotions parents may experience after receiving their child’s diagnosis. And get her advice on how to set boundaries and make time for self-care while still supporting your child.

It’s normal for kids to feel uncertain sometimes as they grow and learn about the world. However, there’s a big difference between feeling nervous once in a while and dealing with constant uncertainty. So, how can parents notice these moments and offer support? Listen as host Julian Saavedra explains why it’s normal for kids to feel uncertain. Learn how to spot signs of anxiety and uncertainty in your child. And get helpful tips for supporting your child through these feelings. 

A strong parent-child relationship is key to helping children with learning disabilities succeed. Building this bond takes time, patience, and being open with each other. And when done thoughtfully, it can make a huge difference in a child’s life. In this episode, we talk to clinical psychologist Dr. Kristin Carothers. She discusses how building trust can improve a child’s behavior and emotional well-being. Tune in to get tips on building a strong bond with your child and learn how to create a supportive home environment to help them succeed.

For many families of color, navigating the world of special education can be overwhelming. Understanding students’ legal rights in the classroom adds another challenge, often leaving parents uncertain about how to secure the right support for their child. In this episode, we continue our conversation about racism in special education. Listen as Malhar Shah, an education attorney, shares the legal rights parents have when getting help for their child. And get tips on how to effectively advocate for your child’s needs.

Every parent wants the best for their child with learning and thinking differences. But for many families of color, the road to getting that support can feel like an uphill battle. In this episode, we talk to Christopher Cola. Christopher is the father of a son with ADHD and dyslexia. Listen as he opens up about navigating a school district that didn’t always listen to his concerns. And find out why he wants to help other families avoid the struggles he endured.

Imagine a classroom where every student feels represented. Where their backgrounds, learning styles, and individual strengths are valued. For many students of color with learning differences, that’s not always the case. But what if it could be?  In this episode, we talk to author and education consultant Afrika Afeni Mills. Listen as she breaks down why it’s important for kids of color with learning disabilities to feel represented in the classroom. Learn the powerful ways inclusive teaching can reshape their journey. And get tips for how to apply this mindset at home.

The middle of the year can feel like a crossroads. Distractions are creeping in, and the energy kids started the school year with seems to fade like a distant memory.  But what if this moment isn't a sign to slow down but an opportunity to reset? In this episode, we talk to Kate Garcia, MEd. Listen as Kate explains how parents can turn the mid-year slump into a launchpad for success for their kids with learning and thinking differences. And get tips on how to help kids overcome distractions and refocus for the school year.

Navigating learning and thinking differences can be tough for both kids and their families. Neurodivergent children can feel misunderstood both at home and in the classroom. And their parents often struggle to know how best to help. In this episode of “Opportunity Gap,” parents and kids share their experiences with learning and thinking differences. Listen as they break down what they wish others understood. Then, hear from psychologist Christina Cipriano, PhD, MEd about how both parents and kids can approach these challenges with patience and support.

Does your child avoid reading, get easily frustrated, or stumble over familiar words? These may be signs they’re having trouble with reading.  In this episode, we talk to literacy expert Shaquala Holmes, MEd. Shaquala has dedicated her career to helping students become better readers. Listen as she shares: - Tips for what to look for when reading with your child - Ways to help kids grow their confidence, one word at a time

Parenting a child with ADHD can feel like a constant balancing act — juggling patience, understanding, and supporting your child’s unique needs. It often leads to questions like, Am I doing enough? What can I do better? In this episode, we talk with Dr. Larry Jones, a retired pediatrician and father of sons with ADHD. Listen as Dr. Larry reflects on: - Navigating his own ADHD diagnosis - What he’s learned about raising kids with ADHD - And what he might have done differently in hindsight 

The holiday season is filled with joy and spending time with loved ones. But the festivities with their big gatherings, bright lights, and loud noises can be a lot for kids with learning and thinking differences to handle. So, how can parents help kids prepare for the busy holiday season? Listen as Julian shares: - Tips to help kids prepare for social interactions - Ways to create calm spaces for when kids begin to feel overwhelmed - Reasons why setting clear expectations can help kids feel more secure and prepared 

Parenting kids with multiple learning and thinking differences is often filled with many twists and turns. It’s a journey that requires a strong support system, resilience, and hope. And each day calls for patience and understanding from both parents and their children. In this episode, we welcome Jennifer Bywaters. Jennifer is the proud mom of a son with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD. Listen as she shares: - Her family’s journey of receiving multiple diagnoses - The uplifting moments that have kept her family strong - And what this experience has taught her about resilience