Show Notes
Hyperactivity, endless energy, incessant speaking, and impulsivity... These are some common signs of classic ADHD in little ones that many of us may recognise. Today on the Spot Family Podcast we're speaking to Olwen Forker from Backchat Speech Pathology in Brisbane, who's bringing her extensive ADHD expertise to the conversation with a particular focus on awareness around inattentive ADHD markers. Olwen's three children each have ADHD as part of their neurodevelopmental profile and today she shares her journey as a mother and Speech Pathologist who not only specialises but lives her work with neurodiverse little ones. Hear all the ways that classic versus inattentive ADHD presents, the various challenges experienced in executive functioning, and how the Backchat clinic works as an invaluable resource for parents, paediatricians, OTs, and GPs. This episode covers everything you need to know about ADHD, so if you're a parent whose gut instinct is telling you something's up, a therapist or teacher who wants to expand your knowledge, or you are just interested in this increasingly prevalent diagnosis, tune in now!
In this episode, we cover: Hear how early diagnosis changes lives Olwen shares the ways that inattentive type ADHD presents in kids About play-led education and how neurodivergent children have specific educational needs The difference between ADHD and the old term ADD The need for teachers to be educated about ADHD Some examples of exercise-driven routines at schools, for teens and littlies How schooling without sensory breaks is contributing to the mental health crisis What red flags therapists should look for; behavioral observations outweigh the CELF score Why paediatricians, OTs, psychiatrists, and even speechies bring their kids to the clinic! Who to go to first if you recognize the signs, and some great questions to ask a therapist And so much more!
Links mentioned in today's episode: Olwen Forker on LinkedIn BackChat Speech Pathology BackChat Speech Pathology on Facebook BackChat Speech Pathology on Instagram Maggie Dent Martha Burns Little Birdie Books Lindamood-Bell Visualizing and Verbalizing Program Pearson Assessments: CELF-5 SFP Episode 14: Talk, Read, Play, Succeed with Little Birdie Books SFP Episode 2: What is Working Memory? With Dr Tracy Packiam Alloway Spot Family
More from Beyond Words by Pop Family
Building from last episode "Keeping Kids Engaged Over Telehealth", this episode is an essential guide for parents, caregivers, and health professionals who are looking for tools to choose the right speech therapist, ask the right questions, and build a partnership that accelerates progress. Whether you're navigating speech therapy remotely or in person, discover how strengthening relationships, advocating confidently, and tailoring every step to your child's unique needs can transform therapy from a chore into a joyful journey. You'll learn the essential questions to ask your therapist before and during treatment - like how they build trust, adapt to your family's routines, and respond to your child's cues. Heidi reveals why the initial match between family and provider is crucial for outcomes and shares practical strategies to make home practice engaging and achievable. Get insights into creating speech therapy experiences that feel safe, playful, and aligned with your child's interests, even through telehealth. We break down the core elements of successful therapy - consistent routines, shared decision-making, and a strong emotional connection that fosters progress. Heidi emphasises how your involvement can turn therapy into a meaningful, family-strengthening activity. Plus, find out how to give constructive feedback and keep the collaboration thriving - because a strong partnership is the real magic behind rapid, lasting improvements. RESOURCES FROM TODAY'S SHOW Download the free playbook "How to Choose the Right Therapist"👇 🔗 https://popfamily.au/podcasts/keeping-kids-engaged-telehealth/
Is teletherapy worth it for kids? Speech Pathologists Heidi and Lucy break down the frequently asked questions about speech therapy when it comes to keeping children engaged. They explore the critical role of connection in speech therapy, emphasising the importance of collaboration between therapists and parents. This episode discusses how relationships and trust are foundational to successful therapy outcomes and keeping children engaged, the roles of both parents and children in the therapeutic process, and the unique challenges and strategies involved in online speech therapy for kids. RESOURCES FROM TODAY'S SHOW Meet Lucy Griffin: https://popfamily.au/team/lucy-g/ Download the free playbook "How to Choose the Right Therapist"👇 🔗 https://popfamily.au/podcasts/keeping-kids-engaged-telehealth/
Thinking of getting the snip? Heidi dives into the world of tongue ties with Lyndal Thomas, Pop Family's Head of Speech Pathology. Together, they explore their personal and professional journey of understanding and treating tongue ties, highlighting the impact on speech, eating, and overall health. Lyndal shares her own experiences and insights from tongue tie surgery as an adult (aka a lingual frenectomy or tongue-tie release), offering a no-nonsense look at the challenges and triumphs faced by those with orofacial myofunctional disorders. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that blends personal stories with a peek behind the curtain of life as an orofacial myofunctional speech pathologist.
Heidi and Monique simplify the complexities of speech therapy costs in Australia, exploring various funding sources such as community health services, schools, NDIS, and private therapy options. The discussion emphasises the importance of understanding how therapy is billed, the expected costs, and the role of family support in achieving therapy goals. Heidi and Mon also touch on the significance of neuroplasticity in therapy outcomes and the need for realistic expectations regarding the duration and frequency of therapy sessions.
In this extended cut of "What is Neurodiversity", Heidi interviews Tina Evans, a speech pathologist and clinical lead for neurodiversity at Pop Online Speech Therapy. They discuss Tina's journey into the field, the concept of neurodiversity, and the importance of understanding and advocating for neurodivergent individuals. The conversation covers the evolution of terminology, the significance of empathy in therapy, and the role of communication partners in supporting neurodivergent individuals. They also explore the need for safe spaces in therapy and provide resources for parents navigating this journey. RESOURCES FROM TODAY'S SHOW Meet Tina Evans: https://popfamily.au/team/tina-evans/ The Brain Forest by Sandhya Menon: https://www.onwardsandupwardspsychology.com.au/product-page/book-the-brain-forest Yellow Lady Bugs Podcast: https://www.yellowladybugs.com.au/news/view?newsId=6 Emily Hammond - NeuroWild Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neurowild_/ Doc Amen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doc_amen/ Download the free 'What is Neurodiversity and Neuroaffirming Practice' mini guide👇 🔗https://popfamily.au/podcasts/33-what-is-neurodiversity-clinicians-edition/ KEY TAKEAWAYS 💡 • Neurodiversity encompasses both neurotypical and neurodivergent brains. • Empathy is crucial in understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals. • Neurodiversity affirming therapy values individuals for who they are, rather than trying to 'fix' them. • Building positive relationships with clients enhances therapeutic outcomes. • Communication partners play a vital role in supporting neurodivergent individuals. • Creating safe spaces in therapy can improve engagement and learning. • Therapists should adapt their approaches based on individual needs and preferences. • Understanding the family's values is essential in therapy. • The evolution of neurodiversity terminology reflects a growing understanding of diverse brains. • Resources and education are key for parents and professionals in supporting neurodivergent individuals. CONNECT WITH US 🤝 Listen to more episodes | popfamily.au/podcasts/ Watch the Episodes On YouTube | @BeyondWordsbyPopFamily Follow us on Instagram | @beyondwordsbypopfamily @popfamily.au Follow us on Facebook | @beyondwordsbypopfamily @popfamily.au HOSTS | Heidi Trusler, Founder of Pop Online Speech Therapy and Speech Pathologist MUSIC | Track: "Mountain Anthem" by Ryan Carlson PRIVACY | Hosted on Libsyn. See libsyn.com/tos-policies/privacy-policy/ for more information.