Dr. Amy Moore Archives - www.thebrainymoms.com

ENCORE EPISODE! Parenting a Differently Wired Kid with guest Debbie Reber

This conversation Dr. Amy and Dr. Jody had with Debbie Reber felt like a lifeline for many of us raising neurodivergent children and teens. Debbie is the author of the book, “Differently Wired: A Parent’s Guide to Raising an Atypical Child with Confidence and Hope” and the founder of Tilt Parenting. Offering insights, personal stories, and guidance for listeners who may be grappling with insecurities around parenting a differently wired child, Debbie provided comfort—and useful tips—to help us all gain perspective.

Podcast

Sensory Processing Differences and Difficulties: Tools for Parents with guest Dr. Eva Lassey

Amy Moore, PhD

Ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer range of sensory experiences your child navigates daily? On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy discuss the world of sensory processing with Dr. Eva Lassey, a doctor of physical therapy and the visionary behind Dr. Sensory. Through her personal and professional journey, Dr. Lassey breaks down the often-confusing landscape of sensory processing disorders, helping us discern between sensory seekers and avoiders. Her insights equip parents and caregivers with the tools needed to support and understand their children’s unique sensory needs, challenging traditional perceptions of neurodiversity and the idea of “normal.”

Join us as we explore the impact of sensory processing issues on motor skills development and social interactions in children. Dr. Lassey shares practical strategies for fostering physical development through simple, engaging activities that can easily be incorporated into everyday routines. From bear walks to crab crawls, we talk about the crucial role of movement and play, especially in an age where technology sometimes hinders our children’s physical growth. Learn how the right balance of core strength, coordination, and active play can transform a child’s confidence and ability to connect with peers.

Finally, we discuss the benefits of sensory tools and fidget toys in managing focus and anxiety, featuring insights from experts like neuroscientist Dr. Christina Ledbetter. Whether it’s weighted blankets or chewable necklaces, these tools offer emotional comfort and can ground the mind, enhancing concentration, and providing a sense of calm. Dr. Lassey emphasizes the importance of trial and error to find the perfect fit for individual sensory needs, illustrating how these aids can create a supportive environment for children and adults alike. Our episode concludes with a heartfelt discussion on gratitude and the ongoing journey of supporting families in navigating sensory challenges.

Podcast

The Art of Calm and Intentional Parenting with guest Holly Swenson

Amy Moore, PhD

On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, discover the transformative power of conscious parenting as Dr. Amy and Sandy talk with with Holly Swenson, an award-winning author, nurse, and mother of four. Holly shares her groundbreaking approach to parenting, inspired by principles from her latest book, “Stop, Drop, Grow, and Glow.” Learn how the “five rights of parenting,” derived from nursing practices, can foster deeper connections and holistic wellness for both parents and children. Holly’s insights promise to reshape your understanding of parental presence and intentionality.

Explore the intricate balance of power and responsibility in parenting today. Holly and we delve into the art of embracing human vulnerability, where apologies and accountability become tools for teaching valuable life lessons to children. Understand the profound impact of personal well-being on parenting efficacy, as we highlight the critical role of self-compassion amidst stress and sleep deprivation. We shed light on the evolving dynamics across generations, advocating for a nurturing yet authoritative relationship with your children.

Uncover practical strategies to maintain harmony and resilience in your parenting journey. Holly’s “Stop, Drop, Grow, and Glow” framework offers a blueprint for managing stress and emotions, promoting mindfulness and self-awareness. From setting firm yet empathetic boundaries to distinguishing reactivity from responsiveness, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Embrace the power of love as a guiding force, and learn how to harness mindfulness techniques to transform challenges into growth opportunities for you and your family.

Podcast

Parenting a Teen Through Depression and Self-Harm with guest Katie May

Amy Moore, PhD

On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, therapist Katie May joins Dr. Amy and Sandy to discuss concepts from her book, “You’re On Fire, It’s Fine: Effective Strategies for Parenting Teens with Self-Destructive Behaviors.” They talk about how to have conversations with your “fire feeler” in a way that doesn’t come across as judgmental or cause them to lose trust in your relationship. You’ll hear advice on what and when it might be appropriate to share your own experiences from young adulthood, as well as why punishments like taking away their phone or grounding them may do more harm than good. Hear specific language you can use when talking to your teen about your concerns and why being a “good enough” parent is better than striving for perfection. Don’t miss this important but upbeat conversation about connecting with your teen and helping them through some of the toughest times in their young adult life.

Podcast

Dysregulated Emotions in Parenting: Breaking the Cycle with guest Dr. Amber Thornton

Amy Moore, PhD

On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy welcome Dr. Amber Thornton, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in parent mental health and well-being. She shares tips from her new book, “A Parent’s Guide to Self-Regulation: A Practical Framework for Breaking the Cycle of Dysregulation and Mastering Emotions for Parents and Children” including how parents can help themselves and also co-regulate their children’s emotions. Tune in to learn more about common “hot spots” (such as bedtime or getting out the door on time), addressing your own childhood emotional needs that may not have been met, and ways to identify and address your own dysregulation. This episode offers a good reminder to parents who may be struggling that you’re not alone, you don’t have to be perfect, and there are tools to help you become a better parent for yourself and your children.

Podcast

Pediatricians Share Why Kids Need Time in Nature with guests Dr. Pooja Tandon and Dr. Danette Glassy

Amy Moore, PhD

On this episode of The Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy welcome TWO experts to discuss the benefits of getting your kids outside into nature. Researcher and pediatrician, Dr. Pooja Tandon, and pediatrician and leader of Project Nature, Dr. Danette Glassy, join us to talk about ideas from their new book, “Digging Into Nature: Outdoor Adventures for Happier and Healthier Kids.” You’ll learn about the benefits to mental, emotional, and physical health including concepts like forest bathing, phytoncides, attention restoration, and microbes. Find out what researchers have discovered about spending time outside beyond just physical exercise and why “green play” is growing in popularity around the world. Don’t miss this uplifting and informative episode about the value of spending time among the trees, dirt, sand, and water!

Podcast

Insomnia & Sleep Solutions with guest Dr. Daniella Marchetti

Amy Moore, PhD

Do you struggle to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up feeling rested? If so, then you won’t want to miss this information-packed episode of the Brainy Moms podcast with health psychologist Dr. Daniella Marchetti who specializes in behavioral sleep medicine. In this conversation with Dr. Amy and Sandy, Dr. Marchetti shares the truth about melatonin, nightmares, room temperature, white noise machines, sleep trackers, and even mattresses! Learn how to improve your sleep without getting a sleep study. If you think you know all there is to know about sleep, tune in for this interview with a sleep medicine expert who is “in the know” about how to wake up feeling rested.

Podcast

Raising Healthy Kids: Avoiding Toxins in Foods, Skincare Products, Detergents, and More with guest David Steinman

Amy Moore, PhD

On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, David Steinman, author of the book “Raising Healthy Kids: Protecting Your Children from Hidden Chemical Toxins,” talks to Dr. Amy and Sandy about his extensive knowledge from decades as an environmental journalist and activist. You’ll learn which foods are particularly toxic, what to avoid in skincare products, shampoos, and detergents, and how these chemicals are harming our kids. From their impact on everything from IQ and sex hormones to the liver and the environment, these toxins are poisoning many aspects our lives—but there are things we can do about it! Don’t miss this information-rich episode with a special after party conversation to learn helpful tips when making decisions about the products you consume and use.

Podcast

Maternal Mental Health: Sharing the Load and Loving Motherhood More with guest Erica Djossa

Amy Moore, PhD

On this episode of the Brainy Moms podcast, Dr. Amy and Sandy are joined by Erica Djossa, a psychotherapist and the CEO and founder of MomWell to discuss the “mother load”—the mental load of care, responsibility, planning, organizing, managing, scheduling, and more that women carry at any given time. Whether you’re a new mom dealing with postpartum depression and anxiety or a working mom with school-aged teens who is struggling to fight overwhelm, frustration, resentment, and anger about all you need to bear, don’t miss this compassionate and empowering episode discussing the unfair and unjust roles that have been put on many of us. It’s an episode about not only getting support, but also feeling camaraderie with other women who are experiencing similar feelings.

Podcast

Help Sleep Problems and Anxiety using qEEG and Neurotherapy with guest Mindy Haukedahl

Amy Moore, PhD

On this fascinating episode of the Brainy Moms podcast with Dr. Amy and Sandy, psychotherapist Mindy Haukedahl shares details about assessing and treating anxiety and sleep problems in kids, teens, and adults using qEEG and Neurotherapy. From depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and misophonia, her work with non-invasive in-person and remote qEEG and neurotherapy has significantly improved her clients’ lives by using real-time brainwave activity to help diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. Mindy’s use of brain mapping, grounding and meditative techniques, and psychological interviews has helped her patients understand and regulate their emotions, sleep, and overall well-being. If you’re curious about the use of qEEG and neurotherapy for anxiety and sleep problems, you won’t want to miss this episode.

← Previous