Summary

In this episode of the Early Intervention Matters podcast, Dr. Iyang Takon engages with DK Jonah, a personal and professional development coach, as she shares her journey through the challenges of neurodiversity and chronic illness. DK discusses her recent autism diagnosis, the cultural perceptions surrounding neurodiversity, and the importance of community support and advocacy. The conversation highlights the complexities of navigating life as a neurodivergent individual and the transformative power of understanding one's own neurodiversity.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Neurodevelopmental Podcast
05:31 DK's Journey to Diagnosis
11:51 Understanding Neurodiversity and Autism
21:40 Reactions to Diagnosis and Acceptance
31:38 The Complexity of Neurodiversity and Community Perspectives
36:59 Understanding Personal Experiences in Football and Life
39:55 Barriers to Diagnosis for Girls and Women
42:50 Cultural Influences on Neurodiversity
45:59 Discovering Creativity and Self-Identity
53:59 Support Systems Post-Diagnosis
01:01:02 Advocacy and Community Engagement
01:12:04 Outro Early Intervention Matters.mp3

Takeaways

The importance of community engagement in neurodiversity discussions.
Cultural perceptions can hinder the recognition of neurodivergent traits.
Diagnosis can provide clarity and support for individuals.
Personal experiences shape the understanding of neurodiversity.
Support systems are crucial for navigating life with neurodiversity.
Creativity can manifest in unexpected ways for neurodivergent individuals.
Advocacy is essential for improving awareness and support.
Understanding one's own neurodiversity can lead to self-acceptance.
The journey to diagnosis can be long and complex.
Education and awareness are key to supporting neurodivergent individuals.

Resources

General Information for Parents

www.school-doctor.co.uk

Questions? Email Us at

eim@drtakon.com

Summary

In this episode of the Early Intervention Matters podcast, Dr Inyang Takon and Speech and Language Therapist, Mayuri Dave discuss the critical aspects of speech and language development in children, emphasising the importance of understanding developmental milestones, seeking help when needed, and the role of parents in fostering communication skills. They explore the distinctions between language delay and autism, the challenges of selective mutism, and the significance of early intervention. The conversation highlights practical strategies for parents to support their children's language development and the importance of creating supportive environments for effective communication.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Early Intervention Matters
02:38 Understanding Speech and Language Development
12:10 Distinguishing Language Delay from Autism
24:56 Selective Mutism and Communication Challenges
29:25 The Role of Speech Therapy
36:41 The Importance of Early Intervention
46:05 Supporting Language Development at Home

Takeaways

• Every child develops language at their own pace.
• Parents should seek help if they notice delays.
• Language development is influenced by various factors.
• Distinguishing between language delay and autism is crucial.
• Selective mutism can be linked to anxiety in social situations.
• Speech therapy should be integrated into daily life.
• Early intervention is key to successful language acquisition.
• Multiple languages can enhance a child's communication skills.
• Engaging with children at their level promotes language development.
• Consistency and patience are essential in supporting language skills.

Resources

General Information for Parents

www.school-doctor.co.uk

Questions? Email Us at

eim@drtakon.com

Summary

In this episode of the Early Intervention Matters podcast, Dr. Inyang Takon and Dr. Kate Fadaka discuss the complexities of anxiety in children, including its causes, recognition, and the impact of parenting styles. They explore the differences in cultural perceptions of anxiety, the barriers to recognition, and the importance of seeking professional help when necessary. The conversation also highlights the role of schools in supporting anxious children and the effectiveness of therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Finally, they provide resources for parents to better understand and manage anxiety in their children.

Takeaways

• Anxiety is a normal emotion but can become a disorder.
• The key difference between anxiety and anxiety disorder is impairment in daily functioning.
• Overprotective parenting can hinder a child's ability to cope with anxiety.
• Physical symptoms in children can often indicate underlying anxiety.
• Cultural differences can affect the recognition of anxiety disorders.
• Parents play a crucial role in recognizing and addressing their child's anxiety.
• Schools can provide significant support for anxious children.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a first-line treatment for anxiety disorders.
• Trauma can have a profound impact on a child's mental health.
• Resources are available for parents to help manage their child's anxiety.
  
  
  

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity and Early Intervention
03:53 Understanding Anxiety: Emotions vs. Disorders
06:54 Causes of Anxiety in Children
09:55 The Role of Parenting in Anxiety Development
12:46 Recognizing Anxiety in Children
15:42 Cultural Differences in Anxiety Recognition
18:50 Barriers to Recognizing Anxiety in Children
22:05 When to Seek Professional Help for Anxiety
24:48 Severe Presentations of Anxiety Disorders
29:56 Understanding Anxiety Disorders and Trauma
33:59 The Impact of Social Media and COVID-19 on Youth Anxiety
36:30 Migration and Its Effects on Children's Mental Health
38:34 The Role of Schools in Supporting Anxious Children
40:48 Parental Support Strategies for Managing Anxiety
44:35 When to Seek Professional Help for Anxiety
45:44 The Importance of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
50:16 Consequences of Unmanaged Anxiety
51:40 Resources for Parents and Support Groups
58:36 Outro Early Intervention Matters.mp3

Keywords

neurodiversity, anxiety, children, parenting, mental health, early intervention, cultural differences, therapy, school support, trauma

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Contact Dr. Kate Fadaka

https://www.divine-oasis.co.uk/

Tel: 020 3883 5824

enquiries@divine-oasis.co.uk

Resources for Parents:

Royal College of Psychiatry

https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/parents-and-young-people

Mental Health foundation

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/

Resources

General Information for Parents

www.school-doctor.co.uk

Questions? Email Us at

eim@drtakon.com

This podcast episode discusses the critical transition from pediatric to adult services for children with additional needs. It emphasizes the importance of early planning, the role of education, setting goals for independence, health considerations, cultural perspectives, and the need for advocacy and community support. The conversation highlights the challenges families face and offers practical advice and resources to navigate this complex process.

Takeaways

Transitioning from pediatric to adult services can be challenging for families.
Planning for transition should start as early as birth.
Parents often need support to understand and implement transition information.
Building a community of support is crucial for families.
Life skills development is essential for fostering independence in young adults.
Health passports can facilitate smoother transitions during medical emergencies.
Cultural perspectives can significantly influence the availability and quality of transition services.
Advocacy is vital for parents to ensure their child's needs are met during transitions.
Each child has a unique trajectory that must be considered in planning.
Families should remember they are not alone in this journey and can seek help from various resources.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Transitioning from Childhood to Adulthood
05:27 Navigating Transition Planning: A Parent's Perspective
10:21 The Role of Education in Transitioning
14:47 Setting Goals for Independence
19:51 Health Considerations During Transition
24:19 Cultural Perspectives on Transitioning
28:55 Conclusion and Resources for Families

Resources

General Information for Parents

www.school-doctor.co.uk

Questions? Email Us at

eim@drtakon.com

• Summary

In this episode of Early Intervention Matters, Inyang discusses the journey of families with neurodiverse children, focusing on the referral process, personal experiences, and the importance of love and acceptance. Izegbua shares insights on navigating challenges, emphasizing that success is individual to each child and that parents should avoid comparisons. The conversation highlights the need for practical support, understanding, and the significance of nurturing a child's unique abilities and interests.

Takeaways

• The referral process for neurodiverse children can be lengthy and complex.
• It's essential for families to advocate for their child's needs.
• Success should be defined individually for each child.
• Acceptance of a child's unique journey is crucial for parents.
• Avoiding denial can help families access necessary support sooner.
• Nurturing a child's interests can lead to better outcomes.
• Love and emotional support are vital for a child's development.
• Parents should document their child's abilities to aid assessments.
• Setting arbitrary goals can create unnecessary pressure on families.
• Continuous learning is possible at any age or stage of development.

Chapters

00:00 Advocacy and Perseverance in the UK System
02:38 Understanding the Assessment Process for Children
07:43 Navigating the Journey of Acceptance and Support
22:44 Advice for Families on Their Journey
29:47 The Importance of Love and Care in Development
32:27 Outro Early Intervention Matters.mp3

Resources

General Information for Parents

www.school-doctor.co.uk

Questions? Email Us at

eim@drtakon.com

In this episode of Early Intervention Matters, Dr Inyang Takon and her guest, Izegbua discuss the challenges and experiences of parenting neurodiverse children, particularly focusing on the transition from Nigeria to the UK. Izegbua shares her personal journey, highlighting the importance of understanding support systems, navigating educational challenges, and advocating for children with special needs. The conversation emphasizes the need for resilience, knowledge, and a shift in mindset when dealing with the complexities of neurodiversity and education.

Takeaways

• The journey of parenting neurodiverse children is unique and challenging.
• Cultural stigma can significantly impact the support available in Nigeria.
• Advocacy for your child is crucial in navigating educational systems.
• Understanding the importance of functional skills over academic pressure is key.
• Transitioning to a new country requires research and preparation.
• Building resilience is essential for both parents and children.
• Waiting lists for services in the UK can be a culture shock.
• Personalized support and understanding your child's needs are vital.
• It's important to protect the home environment during transitions.
• Knowledge and training can lead to better outcomes for children.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Early Intervention Matters

01:43 Izebua's Journey: From Nigeria to the UK

08:38 Navigating Support Systems in Nigeria

12:35 Transitioning to the UK: Cultural Shock and Education

20:51 Advocacy and Perseverance in the UK System

Resources

General Information for Parents

www.school-doctor.co.uk

Questions? Email Us at

eim@drtakon.com

For no fault of ours, Many of us fail to realise the importance of transitions and the part it plays in the presentation of the child or young person. Your child may behave in one way at home which is their comfort zone and in a completely different setting he manifests many of the symptoms we know to indicate one neurological disorder or the other.

There are reasons for this and we need to pay attention to this interesting phenomenon. This will help us to diagnose the child properly and be ready to meet his/her needs in whatever setting she finds herself.

Listen as Dr. Takon discusses this important issue.

Resources

General Information for Parents

www.school-doctor.co.uk

Questions? Email Us at

eim@drtakon.com

The short answer to this is Yes!
However, ADHD often presents itself in a different way in girls. In this episode, Dr. Takon discusses how ADHD shows up in girls and the signs to look out for.

If you have any questions or queries about this topic, send an email to eim@drtakon.com and your question could be answered in a future episode.

Resources

General Information for Parents

www.school-doctor.co.uk

Questions? Email Us at

eim@drtakon.com