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Flor Pedrola

Do you want to stop asking yourself if you are doing the right thing when helping a child with ADHD?

Would you like to find a better way to know and understand ADHD, so you can apply new tactics and strategies to simplify your life and minimize difficult moments?

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Do you want to stop asking yourself if you are doing the right thing when helping a child with ADHD?

Would you like to find a better way to know and understand ADHD, so you can apply new tactics and strategies to simplify your life and minimize difficult moments?

If you are an adult (parent of a child with ADHD, an educational professional who is in the classroom with ADHD children, or a direct or indirect family member) who lives with ADHD and wants to act differently, then this course is for you. You will not be disappointed. When you complete it, you will gain basic knowledge about the brain and valuable tools that will turn your life around.

I have created this course in order to help and shed a brighter light on this disorder from the point of view of a mother who has lived with it for over 25 years. I want to inspire anyone who wants to take a more active part in living with ADHD.

My attempts, successes, and failures will be shared in order to pave your own way as a companion (family or not) of a child with ADHD. This course is not only theory, it also comes with a list of various suggestions for you to choose the ones you consider most suitable for your particular situation.

Like many of you, I am the mother of a child with ADHD (diagnosed by a neurologist at the age of 3). This totally unexpected situation presented me with challenges with myself, my son, my family and my school (having changed institutions 7 times, from Kindergarten to University). The relentless search for solutions led me to get certified in the USA on brain health and in Australia on Neuroscience for Leaders.

At the end of each module, you will find links to texts or scientific references, in case you want to explore further.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Understand better the course plan and get to know about my journey and me
1 1 Course presentation
1 2 About me
Feel comfortable talking about ADHD/ADD and its characteristics
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores neuroplasticity, which highlights the brain's ability to adapt and change throughout life, offering hope for positive development in children with ADHD
Discusses the impact of technology on the brain, which is relevant for parents navigating the digital age and its effects on children with ADHD
Examines the importance of brain health, exercise, food, and sleep, which are crucial for managing ADHD symptoms and promoting overall well-being in children
Highlights the significance of self-image, resilience, willpower, and language, which are essential for fostering emotional well-being and positive self-perception in children with ADHD
Presents the instructor's personal experiences as a parent of a child with ADHD, which may resonate with other parents facing similar challenges
Includes links to texts and scientific references at the end of each module, which may be useful for learners who want to explore the topics in more depth

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Reviews summary

Neuroscience approach to understanding adhd

According to learners, this course provides a fresh and insightful perspective on ADHD, grounded in neuroscience. Many found the explanations of brain functions clear and easy to understand, even without a science background. Students particularly appreciated the instructor's relatable approach as a fellow parent, which made the content feel practical and actionable. The course offers a range of tools and strategies for parents and educators, emphasizing a shift towards a brain health perspective. While largely seen as beneficial, particularly for beginners, some experienced learners felt certain topics could benefit from more in-depth exploration. Overall, it's viewed as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to better understand and support a child with ADHD.
Includes important advice on parent self-care.
"The module on taking care of ourselves as parents was a crucial and much-needed reminder."
"It helped me realize the importance of my own well-being in supporting my child."
"Provides actionable steps for parents to manage their own stress and health."
Reframes understanding around brain health.
"I really appreciated the focus on 'brain health' over 'mental health' - it's a positive reframing."
"This shift in perspective changed how I think about and approach ADHD significantly."
"It helped me view challenges through a lens of biological understanding rather than just behavior."
Instructor is relatable and shares experience.
"The instructor's perspective as a parent going through similar experiences was invaluable."
"Her personal stories and relatability made the content truly resonate with me."
"It felt like I was getting advice and understanding from someone who truly knows what it's like."
Explains complex neuroscience concepts clearly.
"Explains complex neuroscience concepts in a simple, understandable way."
"Made the brain functions related to ADHD very clear for me."
"I appreciated how the science behind it was broken down into easy chunks."
Highly recommended for parents of children with ADHD.
"This is a must-take course for any parent navigating life with a child diagnosed with ADHD."
"This course has truly changed how I understand and interact with my son."
"It gave me hope, understanding, and practical ways to help our family dynamic."
Offers practical strategies and tools to apply.
"This course provided practical tools I can actually start using with my child right away."
"I learned new strategies for managing difficult moments more effectively."
"The suggestions and examples given were very helpful and relevant to my situation."
Good for beginners, might lack depth for experts.
"It's an excellent introduction if you're new to the topic, but someone with prior knowledge might find it basic."
"While comprehensive for a parent, I wish there was more depth on specific complex challenges."
"A solid starting point, but I feel I may need additional resources for more detailed interventions."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Neurosciences for Parents: a new look on ADHD with these activities:
Review Brain Anatomy Basics
Reinforce foundational knowledge of brain structures to better understand their roles in ADHD.
Browse courses on Prefrontal Cortex
Show steps
  • Review diagrams of the brain and identify key areas.
  • Read brief descriptions of each area's function.
  • Take a short quiz to test your knowledge.
Read 'Driven to Distraction' by Hallowell and Ratey
Gain a deeper understanding of ADHD through real-life examples and practical strategies.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Driven to Distraction'.
  • Read the book, taking notes on key concepts and strategies.
  • Reflect on how the information relates to the course content and your own experiences.
Create a Mind Map of ADHD Symptoms
Visualize the interconnectedness of ADHD symptoms to improve comprehension and recall.
Show steps
  • Gather information on ADHD symptoms from the course materials.
  • Create a mind map with 'ADHD' as the central topic.
  • Branch out with different symptom categories and specific symptoms.
  • Use colors and images to enhance the mind map.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Discuss ADHD Management Strategies with Peers
Share and learn practical tips for managing ADHD from other parents and caregivers.
Show steps
  • Connect with other parents or caregivers of children with ADHD.
  • Schedule a virtual or in-person meeting to discuss ADHD management strategies.
  • Share your own experiences and challenges.
  • Listen to and learn from the experiences of others.
Explore 'Smart but Scattered' by Peg Dawson and Richard Guare
Learn strategies for improving executive function skills in children with ADHD.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Smart but Scattered'.
  • Read the book, focusing on the executive skills discussed.
  • Identify strategies that you can implement with your child.
Develop a Personalized ADHD Management Plan
Apply course knowledge to create a tailored plan for managing ADHD in your child.
Show steps
  • Assess your child's specific ADHD symptoms and challenges.
  • Identify strategies from the course and other resources that may be helpful.
  • Create a written plan with specific goals and action steps.
  • Implement the plan and track progress.
Design a Visual Aid for Explaining ADHD to Others
Solidify your understanding of ADHD by creating a tool to educate others.
Show steps
  • Determine the target audience for your visual aid (e.g., family, friends, teachers).
  • Choose a format for your visual aid (e.g., infographic, presentation, short video).
  • Gather information on ADHD from the course and other resources.
  • Design the visual aid, focusing on clear and concise messaging.

Career center

Learners who complete Neurosciences for Parents: a new look on ADHD will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Neuropsychologist
Neuropsychologists assess and treat individuals with brain-based disorders, and often work on interdisciplinary teams with psychiatrists, neurologists, and other medical specialists. This course may help a Neuropsychologist, since it contains insights into the neurological aspects of ADHD, along with strategies for supporting children with the condition. The course's focus on understanding brain health, self-image, resilience, and the role a child's family plays may help a Neuropsychologist. A Neuropsychologist typically requires a doctoral degree.
Behavioral Therapist
Behavioral Therapists work with clients to identify and modify maladaptive behaviors. Given that ADHD is a common focus of behavioral therapy, especially in children, this course could be very applicable. The course's emphasis on understanding the brain processes affected by ADHD, such as neurogenesis and synaptogenesis, may help a Behavioral Therapist develop more effective treatment strategies. The coverage of brain health, self-image, and the importance of family relationships will allow a Behavioral Therapist to deliver holistic care that addresses the various facets of an individual's life affected by ADHD.
Educational Psychologist
An Educational Psychologist studies how people learn, designing teaching methods and approaches to improve the learning process in children. Educational psychologists commonly work with children that have ADHD. A course like this, which provides insights into the neurological aspects of ADHD and practical strategies for supporting children with this condition, may help those in this role when diagnosing and treating neurodevelopmental conditions. The course's focus on understanding brain processes, brain health, self-image, resilience, and the importance of family connections may help an Educational Psychologist when creating comprehensive intervention plans that address academic, emotional, and social needs.
Clinical Psychologist
Clinical Psychologists assess, diagnose, and treat mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. With their advanced training, those in this role commonly work with individuals that have ADHD. This course may help a Clinical Psychologist. The course provides insights into the neurological aspects of ADHD and practical strategies for supporting children with this condition. The course's focus on understanding brain processes such as neurogenesis and synaptogenesis, brain health, self-image, resilience, and the role a child's family plays may help a Clinical Psychologist when creating comprehensive treatment plans.
School Counselor
School Counselors support students' academic, social, and emotional development. Often, they work closely with students who have ADHD, who may face unique challenges in the school environment. A course that explores the neurological factors in ADHD, like this one, may help a School Counselor better understand these challenges. This course's discussion of brain function, neuroplasticity, self-image, and the impact of social devices may help the School Counselor provide targeted support and guidance to students with ADHD and their families, promoting academic success and overall well-being.
Special Education Teacher
A Special Education Teacher works with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. Understanding the neurological basis of conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is crucial in this role. The teacher must be equipped to tailor learning strategies to meet each student's unique needs. This course, with its exploration of neurological processes relevant to ADHD like neurogenesis, neural migration, synaptogenesis, and mielogenesis, may help special education teachers develop more targeted and effective teaching methods. Discussions of brain health, neuroplasticity, and strategies for building a strong bond with students are also very useful.
Social Worker
Social Workers support individuals and families facing a wide range of challenges, including those related to mental health and disability. Children with ADHD and their families may benefit from the support of a Social Worker. A course that explores the neurological aspects of ADHD, practical strategies for fostering brain health, and the importance of family connections may help a Social Worker provide comprehensive assistance. The course's emphasis on self-image, resilience, and navigating social networks may help the Social Worker guide families in accessing resources, advocating for their children's needs, and building stronger support systems.
Psychiatrist
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses, including ADHD. This role requires specialized medical and psychiatric training, which is a lengthy process. This course may help a Psychiatrist, since it contains insights into the neurological aspects of ADHD, along with strategies for supporting children with the condition. The course's discussion of the impact of technology on ADHD treatments may also be useful. The course's focus on understanding brain processes such as neurogenesis and synaptogenesis may also be helpful for Psychiatrists when creating comprehensive treatment plans.
Occupational Therapist
Occupational Therapists help people of all ages participate in the activities they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities. For children with ADHD, occupational therapy may help them improve focus, organization, and fine motor skills. A course that provides a detailed look into the brain and technology's impact on neurological treatments may help an Occupational Therapist develop targeted interventions. Understanding the impact of brain health, self-image, and the child's place within social networks will allow an Occupational Therapist to deliver holistic care that addresses the various facets of an individual's life affected by ADHD.
Child Life Specialist
Child Life Specialists work in hospitals and other healthcare settings to help children and families cope with illness, injury, and treatment. For children with ADHD who may be facing medical challenges, a Child Life Specialist can be a valuable source of support. This course, with its coverage of the neurological aspects of ADHD and practical strategies for fostering brain health and resilience, may help a Child Life Specialist provide developmentally appropriate interventions. The course's emphasis on self-image, family connections, and finding a child's gifts may help the specialist promote a sense of normalcy, reduce anxiety, and empower children with ADHD to navigate their healthcare experiences.
Recreational Therapist
Recreational Therapists use recreational activities to improve and maintain the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals with illnesses or disabilities. For children with ADHD, recreational therapy can provide a safe and engaging outlet for managing symptoms, improving social skills, and boosting self-esteem. A course that explores the neurological aspects of ADHD and emphasizes the importance of exercise, social connections, and finding a child's gifts may help a Recreational Therapist develop programs that are both fun and therapeutic. Understanding aspects like neurogenesis and synaptogenesis may help the Recreational Therapist to deliver holistic care that addresses academic, emotional, and social needs.
Pediatric Nurse
Pediatric Nurses provide medical care to infants, children, and adolescents. They often encounter children with ADHD, whether as a primary diagnosis or co-occurring condition. A course that explores the neurological aspects of ADHD and offers insights into supporting brain health may help a Pediatric Nurse provide more informed and compassionate care. The course's coverage of brain function, neuroplasticity, and the importance of routines may help the nurse educate families about managing ADHD symptoms and promoting overall well-being in their children.
Life Coach
Life Coaches guide clients in setting goals and achieving their full potential. For individuals with ADHD, a Life Coach can provide support in managing challenges related to focus, organization, and time management. This course, with its focus on understanding the brain, building resilience, and fostering self-awareness, may help a Life Coach develop strategies tailored to the unique needs of clients with ADHD. Learning about the importance of exercise, food, sleep, habits, and routines may help the Life Coach deliver holistic care that addresses the various facets of an individual's life affected by ADHD.
Research Scientist
Those working as a Research Scientist design and conduct studies, analyze data, and publish findings with the goal of expanding knowledge of ADHD. A Research Scientist typically requires a doctoral degree. This course may help a Research Scientist, since it contains insights into the neurological aspects of ADHD, along with strategies for supporting children with the condition. This course's focus on understanding brain processes such as neurogenesis and synaptogenesis may help inform data analysis and experimental design. The course's discussion of the impact of technology on ADHD treatments may also be useful.
Physician
Physicians are medical doctors who diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries. While some Physicians may choose to specialize in a specific area, many serve as generalists who come into contact with patients from all walks of life. In this role, it is common to encounter patients with ADHD. This course may help a Physician, since it contains basic knowledge about the brain and tools that may turn one's life around. Discussions of brain health, self-image, and resilience may also be helpful.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Neurosciences for Parents: a new look on ADHD.
Offers a comprehensive overview of ADHD from both a clinical and personal perspective. It provides valuable insights into the different presentations of ADHD and practical strategies for managing its challenges. It widely recognized and respected resource for individuals with ADHD, their families, and professionals working in the field. This book adds breadth to the course by providing real-life examples and coping mechanisms.
Focuses on executive skills and how they relate to ADHD. It provides practical strategies for improving these skills in children and adolescents. It valuable resource for parents and educators who want to help children with ADHD succeed academically and socially. This book adds depth to the course by focusing on a specific set of skills crucial for managing ADHD.

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