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Soaring Child – Thriving With ADHD

Because we believe that every child – ADHD or not – deserves the opportunity to soar. 

 

149 – How Emotional Intelligence and Play Transform ADHD with Leroy Slanzi

ADHD Thrive Institute
ADHD Thrive Institute
149 - How Emotional Intelligence and Play Transform ADHD with Leroy Slanzi
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In this episode of The Soaring Child Podcast, host Dana Kay delves into the transformative power of emotional intelligence and unstructured play in supporting children with ADHD and beyond. Joining her is Leroy Slanzi, an esteemed educator with over 25 years of experience and the author of Emotional Schools: The Looming Mental Health Crisis, A Pathway Through It. Leroy brings a unique perspective on how emotional intelligence, coupled with structured and free play, can not only address ADHD challenges but also foster resilience, empathy, and mental well-being in children.

Leroy shares his expertise on reshaping educational systems to prioritize social-emotional learning, helping children self-soothe, and how schools and families can implement simple, impactful practices to promote emotional growth. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or administrator, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring strategies to support children and create a brighter future for education. Don’t miss Leroy’s valuable tips for fostering emotional intelligence and the role of play in child development.

Links Mentioned in the Show: 

 Show Notes

Key Takeaways:

[4:37] The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Child Development
[5:25] Leroy’s Journey in Education
[11:23] The Decline of Free Play and Its Impact
[14:30] Incorporating Play in Schools and Homes
[15:39] Strategies to Support Children with ADHD and ODD
[26:25] Advice for Educators and Parents
[36:17] Actionable Takeaways

Memorable Moments:

”Emotional intelligence isn’t just a skill—it’s the foundation for mental health and resilience.”

“Play is one of the most effective ways to build emotional intelligence in children.”

“When teachers understand ADHD, they become less frustrated and more compassionate.”

“Unstructured play is a lost art, but it’s essential for teaching kids communication, critical thinking, and creativity.”

“We’re seeing a dissipation of grit, perseverance, and resilience in kids today, and we need to bring play back.”

“You can’t teach literacy and numeracy if kids haven’t learned to regulate their emotions.”

“Free play creates communities where no one is left behind, teaching kids empathy and inclusion.”

“Teaching kids to self-soothe allows them to cope with stress and think critically.”

“Parents don’t need to eliminate technology—they just need to schedule attachment and interactive time.”

“This isn’t just about children; adults need to improve their emotional intelligence to model healthy behaviors.”

How to Connect with Leroy Slanzi

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📕INTERNATIONAL  BEST SELLING BOOK:

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💻FREE MASTERCLASS

  • Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass – https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

  • ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd

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  • Dye-Free for ADHD Course – https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY

ABOUT THE SOARING CHILD PODCAST

Dive into a unique podcast experience where we explore innovative and natural strategies to support children with ADHD.

The Soaring Child Podcast hosted by Dana Kay, offers you a chance to listen in on conversations that could change the way you think about ADHD management.

Dana Kay, board certified health & nutrition practitioner, author of the best selling book Thriving with ADHD: A guide to naturally reducing ADHD symptoms In your child, leading ADHD expert but most importantly a mom with a child with ADHD who gets it.

As a mother of a child with ADHD, she knows firsthand the struggles that come with parenting a neurodiverse child & the freedom that is possible once parents learn to reduce ADHD symptoms. Dana has been featured in Forbes, on Fox & CBS, & various other online media. She has also been a guest at multiple parenting & ADHD summits & podcasts.

Her goal with the Soaring Child is to give hope & answers to parents of children with ADHD who are looking for alternative (natural) and effective means of helping them learn to thrive at home, at school, and in life.

Because children with ADHD deserve to soar, just like every other child.

 

 

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