Why praise works differently for ADHD brains

Iron, zinc and the ADHD brain

If your child is living with ADHD, iron and zinc are two nutrients worth knowing about. Research shows that deficiencies in both are common in children living with ADHD, and both play a direct role in dopamine production and regulation. In this episode, Mon breaks down what the science says, what to look for in everyday meals, and why a simple conversation with your GP is the best place to start. Practical, research-backed, and built for busy families. Well Nourished Link [https://wellnourished.com.au/family-affiliate-refer/ref/283/] Natural Super Kids [https://www.naturalsuperkids.com/] Science reference:  Di Lorenzo, R., Balducci, J., Poppi, C., Arcolin, E., Cutino, A., Ferri, P., D'Amico, R., & Filippini, T. (2021). The role of iron and zinc in the treatment of ADHD among children and adolescents: A systematic review of randomized clinical trials. Nutrients, 13(11), 4059. DOI: 10.3390/nu13114059

Connection is a habit worth teaching

In this episode, Mon shares why building the habit of connection matters so much for children living with ADHD, what the science says about their friendship difficulties, and the simple ways parents can model and support connection at home. Be Everything You Are! Organiser [https://www.beeverythingyouare.com.au/products/2026-undated-school-15-week-organiser] Science references: Mikami, A.Y. (2010). The importance of friendship for youth with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review, 13(2), 181–198. DOI: 10.1007/s10567-010-0067-y Cavioni, V., et al. (2023). The friendships of children and youth with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder: A systematic review. PLOS ONE, 18(8), e0289539. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289539

The story your child is writing right now

On the anniversary of losing her dad, Mon shares something personal about why this work matters. For children living with ADHD, habits are not just about routine. They are about the story our children tell about themselves. And the earlier we start shaping it, the better.Be Everything You Are! Organiser [https://www.beeverythingyouare.com.au/products/2026-undated-school-15-week-organiser] Science references:  Harpin V, Mazzone L, Raynaud JP, Kahle J, Hodgkins P (2016) Long-Term outcomes of ADHD: A systematic review of Self-Esteem and social function. J Atten Disord 20(4):295–305. https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054713486516 [https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054713486516]  Cueli, M., Rodríguez, C., Cañamero, L.M., Núñez, J.C., & González-Castro, P. (2020). Self-concept and inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity symptomatology: The role of anxiety. Brain Sciences, 10(4), 250. DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10040250

The 5 minute running habit

Winter makes movement harder for every family. But for children living with ADHD, skipping it has a real cost. In this episode, Mon shares a 2015 study that found just five minutes of running improved attention in children living with ADHD by 30%, bringing them almost level with neurotypical peers who hadn't exercised at all. Be Everything You Are! Organiser [https://www.beeverythingyouare.com.au/products/2026-undated-school-15-week-organiser] Science reference:  Silva, A.P., Prado, S.O.S., Scardovelli, T.A., Boschi, S.R.M.S., Campos, L.C., & Frère, A.F. (2015). Measurement of the effect of physical exercise on the concentration of individuals with ADHD. PLOS ONE, 10(3), e0122119. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0122119

Building your child's frustration tolerance muscle

Frustration is not a behaviour problem. For children living with ADHD, low frustration tolerance is neurological, and the research backs it up. In this episode, Mon shares the phrase she uses with her own boys and the simple, repeatable habit that helps children living with ADHD move through hard moments rather than getting stuck in them. Small steps, done consistently, build the muscle. Be Everything You Are! Organiser [https://www.beeverythingyouare.com.au/products/2026-undated-school-15-week-organiser] Science reference: Seymour, K.E., Macatee, R., & Chronis-Tuscano, A. (2019). Frustration Tolerance in Youth With ADHD. Journal of Attention Disorders, 23(11), 1229–1239. DOI: 10.1177/1087054716653216