What if some children diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia are in fact struggling with visual strain? Academic, optometrist & sports vision specialist Prof. Jannie Ferreira highlights the effect of 21st century living on sensory development and integration, physical literacy, the visual system and brain development. He explains how eye strain - related to screen time and particularly left-eye dominance - can contribute to learning and reading problems. He dicusses his new book which offers crucial insights and practical advice to prevent or address these fall-outs. A must-listen for parents.Sponsored content.

Are you raising a child who is neurodivergent, or are you curious about child-led parenting? Creative manager & recruiter and coach Benita Conde shares the lessons, challenges and rewards of raising a child who marches to the beat of his own drum. She discusses seeking aligned educational spaces, navigating societal expectations, honouring her son’s intrinsic motivation, and how to view labels like ADHD.

Understanding that emotional dysregulation is a brain-related symptom in individuals with ADHD can counter shame and offer hope. Counselling psychologist Ronel Carver discusses ADHD and its effects, executive functioning deficit, emotional dysregulation and rejection sensitive dysphoria. Concerning ADHD and emotional dysregulation, she highlights different treatment options - particularly BWRT, which changes neural pathways to elicit a preferred response. Ronel outlines the advantages of addressing challenges with brain-based therapy.

ADHD is often labelled “a problem.” Dr Albert Bramante, New York talent agent with a background in psychology, suggests ways to reframe the so-called drawbacks of being neurodivergent. He offers practical advice on creating systems that honour the way the brain works, redefining success and failure, handling criticism, and countering self-sabotaging behaviour.

How does a parent deal with not only the stigma, but misconceptions attached to high-functioning autism? Social worker Mariette Cawood candidly speaks about how this affects a child and its parents, facilitating the child’s relationship with teachers and other individuals, dealing with specific challenges, and the 3 phases of autism. She voices the grief many parents experience and urges other adults to educate themselves and promote a more supportive, inclusive environment.

Did you know that ADHD in women is often overlooked because their symptoms present as overachievement, disorganisation or emotional sensitivity rather than the hyperactivity commonly linked with ADHD?  Wellness coach Marina Wildt cites recent research findings, explaining how women - unlike men - internalise ADHD symptoms, frequently leading to perfectionism, anxiety and burnout. She includes practical advice for female as well as male ADHD-ers.