Ep 47 - Navigating Puberty and ADHD with Michelle Mitchell

Let's delve into the complex world of puberty and ADHD, exploring how early puberty can impact mental health, and the importance of providing safety and security for our children, particularly between the ages of 9 and 12. Michelle shares her personal experiences as a parent and offers strategies for fostering emotional and psychological intimacy with our kids. We’ll discuss the significance of unconditional support, the value of acknowledging your own emotions before addressing your child’s needs, and ways to maintain supportive communication without overwhelming them. Michelle also gives tips on how to approach conversations about puberty in a positive and child-led manner, ensuring our kids feel understood and accepted during this critical developmental phase. Plus, we’ll touch on self-esteem challenges, especially in children with ADHD, and how parents can help build their children's self-worth and resilience. Stay tuned for a packed episode filled with practical advice and heartwarming encouragement, aimed at helping you navigate the ups and downs of parenting children with ADHD.   Key points:00:00 Discussing puberty and ADHD with Michelle Mitchell.04:28 Today's episode discusses puberty experiences from the past.06:21 Tweens' development crucial; impacts adolescence significantly.10:17 Children develop physically, socially, emotionally, cognitively, sexually.14:30 Twins seek closeness; mirror and support them.19:13 "I’ve got you": Prioritise and reassure children.22:00 Social-emotional skills are essential, not secondary.23:46 Separate parent-child journeys; avoid projecting expectations.28:00 Pause before reacting; encourages constructive communication.32:22 Give children options; mix of approaches.36:13 Consider children's transferable boundaries for safety.37:37 Comprehensive book for tweens on various topics.42:14 Save courage for kids' essentials at school.44:39 Intentionally welcome kids home after school.About Michelle:Michelle is a Parenting educator - with 25 years of experience in the wellbeing sector.She started her career as a teacher but soon after founded a charity that delivered life skills programs to young people at risk of dropping out of education. Her work extended into the child safety sector, refugees, and alternative education. She lives with her husband and two young adult boys.Connect with Michelle: Website - @mitchellmitchellwebsiteFacebook - @michellemitchellauthorIG - michellemitchell.author