The Neurodiversity Playbook: Dr. Matthew Zakreski’s Parenting Strategies for Neurodivergent Children

The Resilient Heart Podcast

Parenting neurodivergent children requires a unique approach that embraces their individual strengths, challenges, and perspectives. Neurodivergence encompasses a range of neurological differences, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other conditions that affect how a person's brain processes information and interacts with the world. As a parent, understanding and supporting your neurodivergent child's specific needs is crucial for their overall development and well-being.

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Matthew "Dr. Matt" Zakreski, a clinical psychologist and expert in neurodiversity. Dr. Matthew Zakreski is a renowned speaker and the co-founder of The Neurodiversity Collective. He has dedicated his career to supporting neurodivergent individuals across all walks of life, from schools to workplaces. Dr. Matt brings a wealth of knowledge and practical strategies for parenting neurodivergent children, his approach, as outlined in his book "The Neurodiversity Playbook," emphasizes embracing each child's unique strengths and perspectives while providing tailored support for their challenges. Dr. Matt shares powerful insights on early intervention, common misconceptions about neurodivergent children, and effective ways to nurture their abilities. From identifying initial signs to creating supportive environments, Dr. Matt offers valuable tools for parents to help their children thrive in various settings. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and learn how to empower your neurodivergent child to reach their full potential.

Timestamps

[03:20] About Dr. Matthew Zakreski

[05:37] How Dr. Matt got into clinical psychology

[07:05] Dr. Matt’s book: Neurodiversity Playbook

[09:50] Steps to take when your child is neurodivergent

[12:59] Things parents naturally get wrong about autistic children

[16:34] Ways parents can strengthen their neurodivergent children

[20:09] Places and activities that are more impactful in helping neurodivergent children

[28:16] Tools to help parents talk about their autistic children

[32:15] The most exciting part about Dr. Matt’s job

[34:02] Dr. Matt’s final remarks about the work

Notable Quotes

• “When you do life right, you end up doing intentional work.” - Gabi Garland [06:42]
• “You cannot really do something until you are ready to do it.” - Dr. Matthew Zakreski [07:37]
• “It’s never too easy to start working at something because the sooner we start, the better it tends to go.” - Dr. Matthew Zakreski [12:18]
• “People will choose things that make them feel best.” - Dr. Matthew Zakreski [17:01]
• “I don’t think we ever grow if we don’t get challenged.” - Gabi Garland [23:15]
• “It is always better to know that you are a zebra, not a weird horse.” - Dr. Matthew Zakreski [28:27]

Resources Mentioned

The book Neurodiversity Playbook by Dr. Matthew Zakreski: https://www.amazon.com/Neurodiversity-Playbook-Neurodivergent-People-Neurotypical/dp/195336036X

Connect The Guest: Dr. Matthew Zakreski

Website: https://www.drmattzakreski.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drmattzakreski/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmattzakreski/

Connect with me: Gabi Garland

Website: http://www.gabigarland.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/