ADHD Families Podcast

• Episode 67: Helping Your Child with the 3Ds & ADHD with Michael Shanahan

  👀 In this episode, Sharon Collon interviews Michael Shanahan, founder of Dyscastia, about: ✅ The real challenges behind reading, writing, and maths struggles (it’s not laziness!) ✅ How to support kids when school feels impossible ✅ What myths about learning difficulties we need to throw away—now ✅ Why parents don’t need to “know it all” immediately (and where to find expert help) ⏰ Timestamps ⏰ 00:02:04 – Introducing Michael Shanahan’s background and expertise00:03:25 – Michael explains his role as a specialist intervention tutor00:04:36 – Beginning explanation of the “3Ds” (dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia)00:05:36 – In-depth explanation of dyslexia: what it is and its challenges00:08:12 – What is dysgraphia? Michael’s own experience and discussion00:11:24 – What is dyscalculia? Characteristics and how it differs from other learning challenges00:14:28 – Michael’s personal journey growing up with undiagnosed learning difficulties00:18:47 – How are the 3Ds linked to ADHD?00:22:06 – Advice for parents feeling overwhelmed by new diagnoses00:26:58 – Who can diagnose the 3Ds?00:27:31 – Common myths and misconceptions about the 3Ds00:30:49 – “Specific learning disability” (SLD) reports and what they mean00:32:06 – Tech tools and accommodations for students with the 3Ds00:37:02 – Practical accommodations to ask for at school after an SLD diagnosis00:43:49 – How Michael’s children experienced school with learning differences00:45:34 – How to find Michael, his podcast, and resources for parents and teachers00:50:28 – Wrapping up and final thoughts -------------- Michael is a specialist literacy and maths interventionist, working with students who live with dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, ASD, and other learning difficulties. He is also a director of Word Cracking—software and resources designed specifically for students who find standard intervention too hard. Connect with Michael: Website: https://dyscastia.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr9MZukIRt8ZPplvj4b6BfQ Facebook: hhttps://www.facebook.com/Dyscastia --------------------------- KEY POINTS ADHD and the “3Ds” are deeply connected. Around 30–40% of kids with ADHD also live with dyslexia, dysgraphia, or dyscalculia, making learning challenges much more common than many parents realize . The struggles go beyond academics. Difficulties with reading, writing, and maths can cause embarrassment, low confidence, and a negative self-image in kids—sometimes lasting well into adulthood . Early expert support is key. Parents don’t need to have all the answers right away. Reaching out to specialist tutors, educational psychologists, or organisations like Speld can provide clarity and practical next steps . Common myths are harmful. Many people—including teachers—still wrongly believe that conditions like dyslexia or dysgraphia don’t exist, or that kids “just need to try harder.” These misconceptions can damage children’s self-esteem . Compassion and de-escalation help at home. Reducing homework loads, allowing breaks, and using supportive tech tools (like voice-to-text or read-aloud features) can relieve pressure and make learning more manageable NEXT STEPS Subscribe to Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thefunctionalfamily Book 1:1 Discover Call: https://calendly.com/sharonthefunctionalfamily/15-min-discovery-call-with-sharon WORK WITH Sharon Collon Sharon Collon helps parents of children with ADHD through her: ADHD Family Foundations program: Hi there! The ADHD Family Foundations Program is a comprehensive, tailored approach designed to systematically review and improve processes around your home to work effectively with the ADHD brain. This program, perfect for families with primary school-age children, offers practical strategies, support, and tools to make life easier for the whole family living with ADHD. By focusing on creating ADHD-friendly environments and routines, the program aims to reduce chaos, increase functionality, and create more space for positive family interactions. As an award-winning, credentialed ADHD Coach and Parenting Expert, I've developed this program based on years of personal experience and professional expertise to help families like yours transform daily challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. Enrol Now: https://thefunctionalfamily.com CONNECT 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefunctionalfamily/🔗 Website: https://thefunctionalfamily.com🔗 Free Tools: https://thefunctionalfamily.com/blog

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• Episode 66: From Rock Bottom to Records with Jack Thompson

  ADHD, Addiction, and Turning Pain Into Purpose — with Jack Thompson In this episode, Sharon sits down with ultra-endurance cyclist Jack Thompson, who shares his powerful story of ADHD, addiction, recovery, and purpose. Jack’s journey offers a raw look at what happens when ADHD goes misunderstood — and how deep self-understanding and compassion can rebuild a life. Together, they unpack Jack's story and uncover Jack's parent's important actions that we all need to know about when things get rocky. 👉 Subscribe to the ADHD Families Podcast for real stories, practical strategies, and support that actually makes life easier. 🧩 In This Episode Jack’s story of ADHD, addiction, and finding purpose through cycling The link between stimulation-seeking and addiction cycles How sport, movement, and structure can support mental wellbeing How Jack's parents navigated his addiction and recovery and what we need to learn from this Sharon’s grounded advice for parents supporting ADHD children ⏱️ Episode Flow 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 03:20 – Jack’s early life and undiagnosed ADHD 07:45 – The path to addiction and what he was really seeking 14:10 – Finding clarity and healing through cycling 21:30 – The ADHD diagnosis that reframed everything 29:00 – How structure became Jack’s self-regulation tool 36:00 – Sharon’s insight: parenting from understanding, not control 44:15 – Reframing success for ADHD kids 51:00 – Final reflections: hope, humility, and healing 🧠 Key Takeaways ADHD isn’t a deficit — it’s a brain difference that requires the right supports Dysregulation is contagious Real change happens when we stop fixing and start understanding Connection always precedes correction Routine, interest, and safety are the foundation of growth 🔗 Connect with Jack 🌍 jackultracyclist.com 📸 Instagram: @jackultracyclist 🎥 YouTube: Jack Ultra Cyclist 💼 Work With Sharon Sharon Collon is a credentialed ADHD Coach & Parenting Consultant, founder of The Functional Family, and mum to three boys with ADHD. She’s helped over 40,000 families move from chaos to calm through her signature programs, coaching, and community. 📚 Learn more at thefunctionalfamily.com 📧 [email protected] 📸 Instagram: @thefunctionalfamily 🗞️ Join the ADHD Family Community Join our free support group HERE. Subscribe to The ADHD Family Newsletter for grounded guidance, parenting strategies, and stories that remind you — you’re not alone, and it can get easier.

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• Episode 65: How to tell your child they have ADHD

  How do you tell your child they have ADHD without making it feel scary, overwhelming or negative? In this episode, Sharon, ADHD coach and parent mentor, walks you through exactly how to approach this sensitive conversation with warmth and confidence. You’ll learn how to turn a diagnosis into empowerment — and how to nurture your child’s self-understanding from the start. If your child has recently been diagnosed, Sharon’s free workshop “3 Steps to an Easier Family Life with ADHD” will help you feel equipped and confident. Grab your spot now at thefunctionalfamily.com/easier 💛 👀 In this episode, Sharon covers: ✅ Why telling your child they have ADHD early builds resilience and self-esteem ✅ The biggest mistake parents make when keeping it a “secret” ✅ How to frame ADHD as a unique brain wiring rather than a disorder ✅ Simple ways to weave ADHD into everyday chats, not “big sit-down talks” ✅ How to highlight your child’s strengths — not just their challenges ✅ Real-life language you can use to explain ADHD to different age groups ✅ How to stay curious and keep the conversation going as your child grows ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Finding the right words to tell your child about ADHD 02:15 – Why Sharon felt lost after her first diagnosis 04:00 – The importance of empowering children with the truth 06:30 – Why avoiding “the label” can cause more harm than good 09:45 – How to keep the conversation casual and positive 13:10 – Reframing ADHD as unique brain wiring 15:20 – Using relatable role models to inspire your child 18:00 – Sharing your own ADHD story (without assumptions) 21:15 – Highlighting strengths and self-understanding 25:00 – Encouraging ongoing questions and curiosity 28:00 – Teaching that “everything is figureoutable” 30:45 – Sharon’s free workshop for parents: 3 Steps to an Easier Family Life with ADHD 💡 Next Steps + Resources 🎧 Subscribe to The Functional Family Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube 🎁 Join the free workshop: thefunctionalfamily.com/easier 📘 Download Sharon’s ADHD resources via her website 💬 Follow Sharon on Instagram at @thefunctionalfamily 💼 Work With Sharon Sharon helps parents of children with ADHD create calmer homes and confident families through coaching, workshops, and practical ADHD resources. Start with her free workshop, “3 Steps to an Easier Family Life with ADHD,” or explore her signature Functional Family Membership for deeper support and community. 🌐 Visit thefunctionalfamily.com to learn more.

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• Episode 64: Understanding Sensory Profiles in Children with ADHD

  👀 In this episode, Sharon Collon interviews Rebecca Torpie, founder of Sensory Smart Kids, about: ✅ What sensory profiles actually mean for children with ADHD ✅ The difference between sensory seeking and sensory avoiding (and why your child might flip between the two) ✅ How to spot common sensory challenges—and what to do about them ✅ The truth about all those sensory tools (where to invest, what to skip) ✅ Real-life strategies to make home life calmer, happier, and less…well, sticky! ⏰ Timestamps ⏰ 00:00 Discovering Sensory Integration Passion 05:03 Understanding Sensory Sensitivities in Children 09:39 "Regulation and Sensory Processing Impact" 11:16 Managing Sensory Overwhelm 16:15 Self-Care Tips for Busy Parents 18:04 Managing Post-School Emotions 22:42 Family Dynamics and Emotional Regulation 25:05 Invest in OT; Encourage Active Play 30:43 "Morning Sensory Routines for Kids" 33:46 Evening Playtime and Activity Tips 36:39 "OTs: Embracing Deeper Problem Solving" -------------- Rebecca Torpie is the founder of Sensory Smart Kids, an Occupational Therapy clinic in Belmont, and support children and families in the Greater Geelong area. They see children in their clinic as well as offering home and community based intervention. Connect with Rebecca: Website: https://www.sensorysmartkidsot.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sensorysmartkidsot/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sensorysmartkidsot/ --------------------------- KEY POINTS Sensory profiles help you understand your child’s unique likes, dislikes, and triggers. Children with ADHD often have stronger sensory seeking or avoiding behaviours. Sensory overload can lead to overwhelm or “meltdowns” for both kids and parents. Heavy work activities (like pushing or pulling) help kids feel more regulated. Not every sensory tool works for every child—find what fits your family! NEXT STEPS Subscribe to Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thefunctionalfamily Book 1:1 Discover Call: https://calendly.com/sharonthefunctionalfamily/15-min-discovery-call-with-sharon WORK WITH Sharon Collon Sharon Collon helps parents of children with ADHD through her: ADHD Family Foundations program: Hi there! The ADHD Family Foundations Program is a comprehensive, tailored approach designed to systematically review and improve processes around your home to work effectively with the ADHD brain. This program, perfect for families with primary school-age children, offers practical strategies, support, and tools to make life easier for the whole family living with ADHD. By focusing on creating ADHD-friendly environments and routines, the program aims to reduce chaos, increase functionality, and create more space for positive family interactions. As an award-winning, credentialed ADHD Coach and Parenting Expert, I've developed this program based on years of personal experience and professional expertise to help families like yours transform daily challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. Enrol Now: https://thefunctionalfamily.com CONNECT 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefunctionalfamily/🔗 Website: https://thefunctionalfamily.com🔗 Free Tools: https://thefunctionalfamily.com/blog

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• Episode 63: Interesting Things To Outsource For Busy Families

  Ever feel like you need to clone yourself just to get through the week? Trust me, you’re not alone! If your to-do list is longer than your arm and you’re running on coffee and hope, I’ve got something that will make you feel seen (and maybe even make you laugh). In this episode, I spill all my best-kept secrets for buying back your time, reducing stress, and creating a home that actually works for your beautiful, busy family. From clever outsourcing hacks (think: veggie-chopping superheroes and laundry angels) to the art of saying “no” without the guilt, this episode is packed with practical, strength-based strategies you can use right now. What you’ll learn: Rapid-fire ideas for what to outsource (and what to let go of) Real-life scripts for saying “no” (without feeling like the bad guy) Tips for using tech and community to lighten your load A big permission slip to ditch the martyrdom and invest in your family’s wellbeing ⏰ Timestamps ⏰ 00:00 ADHD Families: Ease and Joy 06:29 Earn Extra Doing What You Love 08:33 "Finding Time-Value Balance" 11:17 Outsourcing Tips and Costs 15:05 Efficient Home Maintenance Strategies 16:52 Efficient Task Management and Meal Planning 21:54 Outsourcing Veggie Prep Benefits 23:26 Budget Shopping and Delivery Choices 28:00 AI Uncovers Hidden Subscriptions 30:44 Sunday Productivity Tips 36:30 Balancing Kids' Schedules & Downtime 37:19 Choose One Activity Per Child 41:05 Personal Styling Service Time Saver 45:55 Outsourcing for Family Well-being 50:04 Outsource and Barter for Efficiency ------------------ The Art of Saying “No” (Without the Guilt) Don’t fill your freed-up time with more obligations! Use Sharon’s go-to script: “Thank you for the offer, I’ll get back to you.” Then set a reminder and check if it actually fits your values and schedule. Remember: Future you is just as busy as present you. Don’t overcommit on the hope that “it’ll calm down soon.” Key Takeaways Outsourcing is an investment in your family’s wellbeing—not a failure. Start with your biggest pain point. Just pick one thing to try outsourcing and see how much lighter life feels. Use tech and community to your advantage—reminders apps, shared notes, and even AI can help you manage admin and subscriptions. Barter with friends! Swap the jobs you hate for the ones you love. Links & Resources Time Audit Resource: Click HERE Meal Planning Mini Course: Coming soon—my ADHD-friendly meal planning system. Loved this episode?Share it on your socials, leave a review, and help us start a conversation about ADHD. For more support, strategies, and a sprinkle of humour, check out thefunctionalfamily.com. Remember, you don’t have to do it all. Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is ask for help (or outsource the washing!). This week’s challenge:Pick just one task that drains your energy or always gets pushed to the bottom of your to-do list—and outsource it. It could be as simple as hiring someone to fold your laundry, getting your groceries delivered, or asking a friend to swap chores with you. Don’t overthink it! Choose the task you dread most or the one that would buy you the most breathing room. Try it once—just as an experiment. Notice how it feels to have that space back in your day. Bonus points: Share your outsourcing win (or fail!) in the ADHD Families Facebook group to inspire and support other families. NEXT STEPS Subscribe to Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@thefunctionalfamily Book 1:1 Discover Call: https://calendly.com/sharonthefunctionalfamily/15-min-discovery-call-with-sharon WORK WITH ME I help parents of children with ADHD through my: ADHD Family Foundations program: Hi there! The ADHD Family Foundations Program is a comprehensive, tailored approach designed to systematically review and improve processes around your home to work effectively with the ADHD brain. This program, perfect for families with primary school-age children, offers practical strategies, support, and tools to make life easier for the whole family living with ADHD. By focusing on creating ADHD-friendly environments and routines, the program aims to reduce chaos, increase functionality, and create more space for positive family interactions. As an award-winning, credentialed ADHD Coach and Parenting Expert, I've developed this program based on years of personal experience and professional expertise to help families like yours transform daily challenges into opportunities for growth and connection. Enrol Now: https://thefunctionalfamily.com CONNECT 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefunctionalfamily/🔗 Website: https://thefunctionalfamily.com🔗 Free Tools: https://thefunctionalfamily.com/blog

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