Dear Neurotypical Adults, A caregivers guide to ADHD.

  It’s been a while since I was a preteen, but the pain of that time resurfaced yesterday when my daughter’s words echoed the experiences of my 11-year-old self. Being a preteen is challenging for anyone, but for a neurodivergent girl, it adds a unique layer of difficulty. Her heartfelt expression broke my adult heart and awakened the little girl I used to be. She said, "When I try to be myself, everyone tells me I’m being extra. They say I’m doing too much; they tell me to calm down. When I’m calm and focused, they ask me what’s wrong. I’m never who they want me to be." How do you explain to an 11-year-old that the world may not be ready for her vibrant light? I’m amazed she can articulate this, as those feelings were once mine, but I couldn’t communicate them. The struggle to manage our identities to fit societal norms can make us forget who we truly are. We may feel like a collection of masks, wearing different versions of ourselves based on what’s needed daily. How do you...

  A Change of Pace: A Heartfelt Tribute to the Educators Who Shaped My Journey I've often shared the challenges and obstacles I faced in my educational journey, however, I want to take a moment to reflect on something different—the incredible educators who played a pivotal role in shaping who I am today. While my journey started with struggles, it was the influence of these remarkable teachers that turned it into something extraordinary. I was fortunate that my educational career didn't end the way it began, and I owe much of that to the inspiring individuals who guided me along the way. Mrs. Goodman: Sparking Curiosity in 6th Grade One of the earliest influences in my life was Mrs. Goodman, my 6th-grade social studies teacher. She had an incredible ability to make learning come alive. She nurtured my curiosity, even in something as niche as stamp collecting. I still have the precious Luisa May Alcott stamp she gave me back then. Mrs. Goodman made me feel smart, valued, and exc...

                                                          The Fine Line Between Acknowledging Difficulty and Fueling Excuses Growing up, my dad had a knack for helping me unpack situations—from soccer games to major life events. While it could be frustrating at times, I credit him with teaching me the invaluable skill of self-reflection. He encouraged me to recognize my limitations and develop strategies to overcome obstacles, ensuring I was prepared when similar challenges arose. My dad didn’t mince words. Whether he was commenting on how I looked in a dress for a semi-formal or weighing in on a major life decision, his honesty was always direct. As a child, I didn’t fully appreciate or understand the power of his straightforwardness. However, I always knew I could trust what he was saying, no matter how tough it was to hear. One day, in a m...

                  Cavemen Don’t Go to School Growing up, my favorite books were from the Bailey School Kids series, with titles like "Zombies Don’t Play Soccer." Inspired by these whimsical tales, today I’m writing my own version: "Cavemen Don’t Go to School." When I was younger, I often wished I understood what was happening in my brain when all I wanted to do was scream and make others feel the way they made me feel. I can’t count how many times my actions were met with the phrase, “You know better than that.” The well-meaning adults in my life were right; when I was calm and using my whole brain, I did know better. What they didn’t realize was that in a state of stress, I didn’t have access to that knowledge. Imagine you’re taking a class and taking diligent notes. Suddenly, the doors between you and your meticulously organized notes slam shut. Now you must take an assessment on a year’s worth of mat...

  Dear Neurotypical Adult, I remember that as a child, the more exciting an experience was, the more it physically hurt when it ended. This led to me craving something new to do as soon as possible. To those who had just provided me with this amazing experience, it appeared that I was ungrateful. I hope my parents know that was never the case; it was the opposite. The experiences they gave me created so much joy that my body struggled to regulate back to normal. Now, having switched from the role of the child to the parent, I experience the other side of this and understand how frustrating it can be and the emotional toll it takes on both the parent and the child. Recently, I experienced this again, which helped me realize why many of my happiest childhood memories ended with me in trouble. I present on equitable education for Neurodivergent Learners. Every time I present, it is a rush of dopamine, and I physically feel amazing. However, when the conference is over, I feel like I h...

  A Journey Through ADHD and Education I’m creating this blog after a powerful conversation with another teacher who attended one of my sessions on Equity Education for Neurodivergent Learners. He found the information so impactful that he wanted to know more, not just for his classroom but for his personal life as well. This inspired me to share my experiences and insights here. Purpose of This Blog This blog is dedicated to the neurotypical adults in the lives of neurodivergent children. I aim to share what I wish the adults in my life had known when I was growing up. It’s important to note that this is not about criticizing the amazing supporters I had as a child; rather, it’s about providing information that simply wasn’t available back then. About Me: Lindsay Rice Hello! I’m Lindsay Rice. My journey with ADHD began early when I was diagnosed at the age of five. Although I could understand and grasp concepts in school that my peers could not, I was a mediocre student on paper. ...