No Such Thing as Normal

Sensory overload: What your child is trying to tell you

Parenting a child with ADHD, autism, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Pervasive Demand Avoidance (PDA) or sensory challenges can feel unpredictable. One day everything is fine. The next day it isn’t. Food they ate yesterday is suddenly rejected. A fun outing becomes overwhelming. And sometimes it all ends in a meltdown. Perhaps your child doesn’t have a diagnosis, but it’s clear they’re not coping. And neither are you. In this episode, Sonia Gray speaks with sensory integration practitioner Elen Nathan about what’s going on in these moments. And why the answers parents often look for may not be the ones that help most. This conversation explores a powerful shift in how challenging behaviour is understood. Regardless of a child’s specific diagnosis or neurotype, their nervous system may be trying to tell us something important. So what actually helps when nothing seems to be working? Elen says: “It all boils down to a sense of safety.” In this episode we explore: What to do when your child isn’t coping Why behaviour can change from one day to the next What you can do while waiting for a diagnosis Why meltdowns are often misunderstood The shift in how experts think about behaviour and sensory processing How to deal with the judgement of others If you’re parenting a child who isn’t coping right now, this conversation may offer some insight. Guest: Elen Nathan The Playful Place No Such Thing as Normal is made with support from NZ On AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ADHD medication - Is is safe? Is it effective? 

ADHD stimulant medication use is rising in New Zealand, but questions about safety and side effects remain - as does the stigma surrounding these meds. In the first episode of Season three, Sonia Gray explores what ADHD medication actually does - and what it doesn’t. You’ll hear 11-year-old Tilly take her morning pill and describe, in real time, how it changes the way she feels. Sonia also speaks with Professor Dave Coghill about how stimulant medication works. Dave addresses some common concerns around safety and effectiveness, and explains what a comprehensive medication trial should involve. Medication isn’t the only treatment for ADHD. But for many, it can be life-changing. Note: This episode is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about treatment decisions. Guests: Professor Dave CoghillTilly and BexResources: ADHD NZNo Such Thing as Normal is made with support from NZ On AirSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The mystery of Tourette’s syndrome

We all know what Tourette’s is - or we think we do.  But this is a condition that is largely misunderstood and routinely misrepresented. Only around 10% of those with Tourette’s syndrome have the ‘swearing tic’ - coprolalia.  But the other vocal and motor tics can be just as debilitating. In this episode, Sonia speaks to Tiktok sensation, Leighton Clarke - aka Uncle Tics. He now embraces his Tourette’s and encourages others to do the same. We also hear from Fyfe, a bubbly and creative 10-year-old. Her mother Amanda describes Fyfe’s journey - from the occasional tic, to a diagnosis of Tourette’s syndrome. And clinical psychologist, Hilary Mack, talks about the connection between Tourette’s Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and ADHD. Guests:Leighton Clarke (Uncle Tics) TiktokFyfe and AmandaHilary Mack Hilary Mack Psychology Resources: Tourette’s Association of NZ Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Spiral of Shame

A diagnosis of ADHD, autism or dyslexia is merely an indication that your brain works in a different - and exciting - way. So why are the rates of co-occurring anxiety and depression so high for neurodivergent people?   In this episode, Sonia talks to 16-year-old Emily Martin, who has ADHD, dyslexia and dyscalculia.  Emily suffered from intense anxiety and low self-esteem throughout her primary school years. Therapist Jane Kjersten explains the specific type of trauma that can come from feeling ‘lesser than’, and suggests ways to heal from the emotional pain. Guests: Emily and Jo MartinJane Kjersten Jane Kjersten Therapist  Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal Podcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is Dyspraxia?

Dyspraxia (or Developmental Coordination Disorder) is more than just a difficulty tying shoelaces or riding a bike.  It impacts almost every aspect of life, and the effort to carry out basic tasks can be exhausting. Sonia talks to Bayley Garnham, a 24 year old Personal Trainer, who has dyspraxia and dysgraphia. Dyspraxic kids often give up on sports early, but Bayley wants to change that.  He believes these kids need a different approach to learning sports. And Sensory Integration Practitioner, Elen Nathan, explains what dyspraxia/DCD is - and what’s going on inside the minds of those with this ‘hidden’ condition. Guests:Bayley Garnham bayley garnham – personal trainerElen Nathan The Playful Place Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal Podcast Resources:  Dyspraxia NZSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.