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In this Q&A episode of Thriving Kids, Dr. Dave Anderson answers parent questions sparked by the Orlando Bloom conversation, focusing on dyslexia myths, practical at-home learning strategies, self-esteem, movement and focus, AI tools, and the emotional impact of learning differences. He explains what dyslexia actually is, why evaluation and targeted support matter, and how parents can help kids understand a learning disorder in a way that feels honest, empowering, and grounded in their full identity — not just their struggle.
Show Notes
· What dyslexia really is — and why letter reversals are not required for a diagnosis.
· How schools and neuropsychological testing can identify reading, writing, or math-related learning disorders.
· At-home strategies that may help kids learn, including writing things out by hand, trying creative workarounds, and measuring what actually improves retention or task completion.
· How to protect a child’s self-esteem when they feel “stupid” or defeated by school.
· Why movement breaks can help with focus, and how to talk with teachers about using them thoughtfully and effectively.
· Where the line is between AI as a helpful learning tool and AI as a crutch.
· Whether learning differences can be linked to strengths like creativity, resilience, or big-picture thinking — and what the research can and can’t say yet.
· Signs that a learning disability may be affecting a child’s anxiety, mood, identity, or school engagement beyond academics.
· How parents can talk about a learning disorder in a way that is truthful, supportive, and empowering.
Relevant Links from the Child Mind Institute
Creators and Guests
Host
Dave Anderson
Dave Anderson, PhD, is the Vice-President of Public Engagement and Education and a senior psychologist in the ADHD and Behavior Disorders Center at the Child Mind Institute. Dr. Anderson focuses on the expansion of our awareness-building and prevention programs while also leading initiatives that build the Child Mind Institute brand, foster strategic partnerships, and forge new relationships with policy makers and youth mental health leaders.
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Producer
Andrew Dearling
Andrew Dearling is the Digital Director at the Child Mind Institute, where he leads strategy and execution across web, email, social media, and digital campaigns. He focuses on using digital tools to connect more families with mental health resources, expand the organization’s reach, and drive measurable impact. Andrew combines deep expertise in content, platforms, and performance marketing with a clear understanding of how to reach people where they are, and move them to take action.
Producer
Chad Garber
Chad Garber, a seasoned Creative Producer with over 15 years of experience, shapes branded video, digital, and experiential content for Fortune 100 companies, agencies, and in-house teams to Child Mind Institute. Known for building high-performing creative operations, he led pro-bono productions to multimillion-dollar campaigns for brands like Verizon, Microsoft, New Balance, Budweiser, and FedEx. His sharp storytelling, deep production expertise, and collaborative leadership move ideas from concept to screen with impact.
What is Thriving Kids?
Parenting can feel overwhelming when kids struggle with anxiety, behavior, school, or big emotions. Thriving Kids is a podcast for parents and caregivers who want clear, honest answers about child and adolescent mental health.
Hosted by Dr. Dave Anderson, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, each episode focuses on a common parenting challenge — from tantrums to school struggles — with practical strategies grounded in science.
You’ll hear direct, expert guidance from clinicians who work with kids and families every day.
New episodes every week, with companion newsletters for easy reference.