The Parenting Cipher

Are you finding it challenging to set and support educational goals for your child? In this episode, Genie Dawkins delves into practical strategies for parents to help their children achieve their academic goals by maintaining clear communication and ensuring they receive necessary accommodations.Episode Summary:In this episode we explore the common challenges parents face with evening school events, the vital role of connecting with teachers, and, most importantly, the powerful impact of setting personalized educational goals for your children. Genie emphasizes how these goals can foster independence, boost confidence, and drive academic and personal development. With practical advice on proactive communication, keeping organized records, and utilizing motivational visual aids and reward systems, Genie shares her tried-and-true methods for success. Plus, she brings personal anecdotes about her own children to further inspire and guide you on this journey. So grab your notebook and get ready to join us in making this school year a triumph through goal-setting and proactive involvement!Key Takeaways:Setting Educational Goals: Understand the importance of setting both short-term and long-term educational goals tailored to your child’s needs. These goals help children take ownership of their academics and personal development.Support Through Communication: Maintain ongoing, effective communication with your child about their goals. Engage them in discussions about their progress and the challenges they face, ensuring they feel supported and understood.Ensuring Accommodations: Advocate for your child by ensuring they receive the necessary accommodations outlined in their IEP. Regularly review and communicate with the school to guarantee these accommodations are properly implemented.Goal Setting Strategies: Use visual aids for younger children to represent achievements and contracts with monetary rewards for older kids to motivate academic and behavioral improvements.Proactive School Engagement: Don’t wait for scheduled meetings—initiate conversations with teachers and school administrators to discuss your child’s goals and accommodations early on.Organization for Success: Keep detailed binders for each child with important educational documents, including reports, assessments, and goals, to stay organized and informed about their progress.Links and Resources:- Understood.org- Education Binder- Wrightslaw Resources- ADDitude Magazine Resources for ADHDQuote:1. "Motivating children involves setting goals that are relatable and interesting to them, making the journey of learning enjoyable and rewarding."Genie is the passionate host of The Parenting Cipher, a podcast designed to help parents navigate the complexities of special education. With years of firsthand experience as a parent of children who require special education, Genie offers a wealth of knowledge, practical tips, and motivational insights to empower parents in creating a supportive and successful educational environment for their children. Her relatable storytelling and expert advice have helped countless families feel more confident and informed in their educational journeys.

Are you wondering how to effectively communicate your child's unique needs to their school and establish consistent routines? In this episode, Genie Dawkins dives deep into practical strategies for parents to advocate for their children, especially those with neurodiverse needs. From securing necessary accommodations to setting up productive after-school routines, Genie uses her personal experiences to guide you through the often-overwhelming journey of the school year.Episode SummaryGenie Dawkins, host of The Parenting Cipher, provides parents with essential advice on how to secure specialized school accommodations and establish effective routines for their children. She emphasizes the importance of communication with school staff and consistently advocates for the child's individual needs. Throughout the episode, Genie shares her personal experiences with her son’s ADHD and holistic medication journey, offering encouragement and reassurance to parents.Key Takeaways- Securing Specialized Accommodations: Obtain documentation from doctors or therapists to support your child’s specific needs.- Effective Communication: Establish open lines of communication with the school, including teachers and special education coordinators.- Routine Establishment: Use the first month of school to set routines and communicate any necessary accommodations for your child.- Advocacy and Documentation: Always document conversations with school staff to ensure there's a record of what has been discussed. - Holistic Approach: Personal insights into using holistic medications for ADHD.- Encouraging Independence: Support children in creating their own calendars and managing their schedules.- Bedtime Routines: Introduce consistent bedtime routines and activities to aid sleep, particularly for neurodiverse children.- Nutritional Tips: Incorporate multivitamins and establish morning routines to ensure a good start to the day.Links and ResourcesSpotify for White Noise and StoriesRecommended Reading AppsVirtual Tutors for Neurodiverse ChildrenHow Much Time Should My Child Do Homework?Amazon EchoQuotes- “Use the first month of school to establish routines and ensure you’re communicating effectively with the school staff.” - Genie Dawkins- “Don’t be afraid to advocate for your child’s individual needs; you know them best.” - Genie Dawkins- “Let your child take part in creating their own calendars and managing appointments. It builds independence.” - Genie DawkinsShort BiographyGenie Dawkins: A devoted advocate for children with neurodiverse needs, Genie Dawkins uses her platform on The Parenting Cipher to share her experiences and knowledge. With personal insights into raising a child with ADHD, Genie empowers parents through practical advice and emotional support. She is passionate about holistic approaches and effective communication techniques that benefit both children and their families. Subscribe, rate, and review The Parenting Cipher on your favorite podcast platform!

Have you ever wondered how to set the tone for effective communication with your child's school, especially when your child has special education needs? In this episode of The Parenting Cipher, Genie Dawkins shares her personal experiences and strategies for creating a constructive dialogue with teachers and school staff. Genie emphasizes the importance of faith, empowerment, and inward change as foundations for effective advocacy.Episode Summary:In "Effective Communication," Genie Dawkins discusses the significance of maintaining clear, respectful, and solution-focused communication with your child's school. She encourages parents to meditate and alleviate their fears, have faith in better outcomes, and focus on creating a supportive environment for their child. Genie shares her personal journey of managing a concerning incident involving her son, emphasizing the value of consistent documentation and follow-up communication. The episode provides practical advice such as writing an introductory letter to teachers, keeping a communication binder, and knowing key school policies. Genie underscores the need for empathy, active listening, and organization when advocating for your child's needs.Key Takeaways:- Communication Foundations: Start the school year with an introductory letter to teachers outlining your child's accommodations and needs.- Consistent Documentation: Keep records of all interactions with the school through notes, emails, or voice memos.- Active Listening and Empathy: Engage with school staff empathetically to build a collaborative relationship focused on your child's success.- Organizational Tools: Use communication binders and cheat sheets to stay organized and effective in your advocacy.- Policy Awareness: Know the school's bullying policy, attendance laws, and the designated person for handling issues to stay prepared.- Meditation and Empowerment: Use meditation as a tool to find inner peace and empowerment in your parenting journey.Links and Resources:- J. Cole's "The Change- Parenting Cipher Website- Special Education Advocacy ToolkitQuotes:- "Empathy and understanding are crucial when dealing with school systems and advocating for children with IEPs."- "Effective communication comes from a place of respect and composure, even in difficult conversations."- "Find your peace through meditation, and let that be your strength in advocating for your child."Biographies:Genie Dawkins: Host of The Parenting Cipher, Genie Dawkins has dedicated her career to providing support and resources for parents of children with special education needs. Her personal experiences as a parent navigating the school system spotlight her insights on effective communication and advocacy. Genie's emphasis on meditation, empowerment, and inner change serves as a guiding principle for parents seeking to create a supportive environment for their children.Join us in this insightful episode, and learn how to communicate effectively with your child's school to ensure their success and well-being.

Are you trying to figure out how to prepare your neurodiverse child for the upcoming school year? In this episode of The Parenting Cipher, Genie Dawkins covers essential back-to-school preparation and organization tips aimed at supporting neurodiverse children and their families. Genie dives deep into creating checklists, organizing school supplies, and preparing both mentally and physically for a successful school year.Key Takeaways:- The importance of creating detailed checklists, completing necessary paperwork, and scheduling appointments for school readiness.- Necessary school supplies tailored to support reading and math challenges in neurodiverse children.- Using a family planner to set and track academic, fitness, and personal development goals.- Establishing dedicated spaces and organizing tools at home and school, and involving children in managing their equipment.- Reviewing the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and setting transition goals for high school or employment.- The value of creating visual schedules and routines to manage daily activities and reduce anxiety.- The benefits of creating visual storytelling books to help children prepare for the school year.- Maintaining effective communication with teachers and support staff through templates and clear, documented communication.- The importance of visiting the school environment before the first day and organizing school necessities in advance.- Upcoming back-to-school series and the encouragement to engage with the Parenting Cypher community.Links and Resources:- Parent-Teacher Communication Template (for purchase)- Child Trends Report: https://www.childtrends.org- Joyful Family Planner [Link to purchase or download the recommended planner]- Back-to-School Course with templates and discounts: [Link to course sign-up]- "North Star" by MuMu Fresh with D Smoke: Link to song - Parent-Teacher Organization Kit: [Link to purchase]Quotes:- "Protect and nurture the light and shine within your child as they walk their unique path."- "Being your child’s north star means supporting their individuality and helping them navigate their own journey."- "Effective communication and detailed organization can significantly reduce back-to-school anxiety for both parents and children."Short Biography for Speaker:Genie Dawkins, the host of The Parenting Cipher, is a passionate advocate for families with special education needs. With years of experience and personal insights as a parent to neurodiverse children, Genie offers practical advice and resources to support and empower parents. Her engaging style and heartfelt dedication shine through in every episode, helping families navigate the complexities of special education with confidence and grace.Remember to hit the subscribe button, leave a 5-star review, and check out the wealth of resources provided in the show notes. Cherish each moment, be kind to yourself, and support your child's individuality as you embark on this back-to-school journey together.

Have you ever felt completely overwhelmed in your parenting journey, wondering if your dedication to your children is also causing you to lose touch with yourself? In this episode, Tanika Ray and Genie Dawkins dive deep into the balance of self-care and motherhood, the concept of invisible labor, and how conscious parenting can save lives.Episode Summary:Genie Dawkins opens up about feeling disconnected from herself during a challenging period as a parent and emphasizes the importance of self-care. Tanika Ray discusses the impact of mothers giving their all to their children, often benefiting the patriarchy, and the concept of invisible labor in motherhood. Together, they offer personal experiences on co-parenting, conscious parenting, and the importance of acknowledging individual roles in a child's life. They address inherited generational anxiety and trauma, discuss their children's struggles within societal pressures, and explore how their own upbringing has influenced their parenting styles. The episode also covers the effectiveness of different disciplinary approaches and the significance of acknowledging and apologizing for one's mistakes as a parent.Key Takeaways:- Recognizing the importance of self-care and not losing oneself in the role of a parent.- Understanding the concept of invisible labor and its exhaustion.- Value of open communication and understanding your child's emotions and rhythms over physical punishment.- Impact of generational trauma and anxiety on parenting and children's well-being.- Importance of allowing children to express themselves and embrace their individuality.- Balancing self-care with parental responsibilities and nurturing one's personal interests.Links and Resources:- Mamaste Podcast - Dr. Shefali's Book on Conscious Parenting- Child Trends Report on Generational AnxietyQuotes:- “In order to give your children the love and care they need, you must first learn to give it to yourself.” – Genie Dawkins- “Our labor as mothers goes unnoticed and often unappreciated, yet it’s the very foundation that keeps our families running.” – Tanika Ray- “Discipline should teach, not punish. It’s about understanding our children, not controlling them.” – Tanika RayShort Biography for Speakers:Genie Dawkins: Genie is a passionate advocate for conscious parenting and self-care. As a host of the Parenting Cipher podcast, she brings her personal experiences to light, helping other parents navigate the complexities of raising children while maintaining their own identity and well-being.Tanika Ray: An accomplished media personality and advocate for wellness and parenting, Tanika uses her platform to inspire mindful and self-aware parenting practices. She emphasizes the importance of individual expression and nurturing the unique attributes of each child, drawn from her transformative journey in conscious parenting.Tune in to this insightful episode that promises to offer guidance, solidarity, and practical advice for parents navigating the intricate balance of caring for oneself and one’s children. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review for The Parenting Cipher!

Are you wondering how to ease your special needs child's transition back to school and manage their anxieties effectively? In this episode, Genie Dawkins dives deep into preparing for the upcoming school year, providing essential strategies for parents of special needs children. She shares personal experiences, thoughtful advice, and practical tips to help make the transition as smooth as possible.Episode Summary:In this insightful episode of "The Parenting Cipher," host Genie Dawkins focuses on preparing special needs children for a successful start to the school year. Genie emphasizes the importance of early preparation, managing anxieties, and encouraging independence. She shares her personal journey with her son's struggles, offering actionable strategies like creating visual schedules, adjusting bedtime routines, and arranging school visits. Genie also discusses the significance of validating children's emotions, preparing role-playing scenarios, and connecting with teachers and school staff to establish a robust support network. Listeners will gain valuable insights and practical tips to make the back-to-school transition as seamless as possible for their special needs children.Key Takeaways:- Early Preparation: Start preparing early to manage anxiety effectively.- Visual Schedules: Create visual schedules to help children understand their daily routines.- Gradual Transitions: Make gradual changes to routines to ease children into the school schedule.- Holistic Sleep Solutions: Tackle sleep issues with holistic methods rather than sleep aids.- Role-Playing Scenarios: Use role-playing to build confidence and prepare for school routines.- School Visits: Arrange pre-school visits during quieter times to familiarize children with their environment and teachers.- Back-to-School Kits: Utilize transition kits containing visual schedules, social stories, and sensory items.- Parental Advocacy: Connect with special education coordinators and engage in parenting groups.- Empowering Independence: Encourage small responsibilities to build independence in children.Links and Resources:- Visual Schedule Printables - Back-to-School Transition Tips- Parenting Groups for Special Needs- Holistic Sleep Solutions for KidsQuotes:- "Start preparing early to set your child up for success and manage those back-to-school anxieties." - Genie Dawkins- "Validating your child's emotions and communicating positively can significantly alleviate their fears and build their confidence." - Genie Dawkins- "Building a strong support network with teachers and school staff is crucial in ensuring that your child's needs are met." - Genie DawkinsSpeaker Biography:Genie Dawkins: Genie Dawkins is a dedicated parent and the host of "The Parenting Cipher" podcast. As a parent of a special needs child, Genie is passionate about providing support, resources, and expert insights to other parents facing similar challenges. Her personal experiences with her son's anxiety, bullying, and sleep issues motivate her to share practical strategies that empower parents to advocate for their children's education and well-being.We hope you find this episode of "The Parenting Cipher" both informative and encouraging. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review to join our supportive community!

Wondering How to Maintain a Summer Routine While Keeping Your Sanity? In this episode of The Parenting Cipher, Genie Dawkins shares valuable insights on curating a balanced and engaging summer schedule for kids, without compromising parents' well-being. From managing sleep disruptions to keeping children entertained with minimal screen time, Genie provides practical tips that can transform your summer experience.Episode Summary:Join Genie Dawkins in this insightful episode as she delves into strategies for creating effective summer routines for children, especially those with special needs. Genie emphasizes the importance of self-care for parents, planning intentional breaks, and involving children in daily activities. She answers listener questions about balancing routines, addressing behavior challenges, and engaging children without screens. Genie rounds off by offering supportive resources through the Parenting Cipher platform and reminding parents that striving for the best is more important than seeking perfection.Key Takeaways:- Importance of taking breaks and delegating responsibilities- Tips for maintaining consistent schedules, including bedtimes and snack times- Utilizing digital tools like Google Maps to plan personal breaks- Addressing challenges like sleep disruptions, behavior management, and sensory overload- Use of visual tools like planners or whiteboards to keep track of schedules- Engaging children in planning and setting goals- Ideas for fun and educational outdoor activities and reading routines- Self-care strategies such as networking and trying new activitiesLinks and Resources:The Parenting CipherGoogle Maps for Finding Local Cafes/Bookstores(https://www.google.com/maps)AudibleReading Resources for Kids Library Summer Reading ProgramsHobby Town and Hobby Lobby Meal Services for Busy ParentsJoyful Family PlannerKids Summer PlannerQuotes:- "Striving to do the best rather than seeking perfection is key to a happy, balanced summer." - Genie Dawkins- "Planning intentional breaks is crucial. Use Google Maps to find a nearby café or bookstore and recharge." - Genie Dawkins- "Involving children in planning goals and routines makes them feel valued and engaged." - Genie DawkinsShort Biography for Speaker:Genie Dawkins is the compassionate and insightful host of The Parenting Cipher. As a dedicated parent and advocate, Genie offers practical advice and resources to help families navigate the complexities of parenting special needs children. With her relatable anecdotes and professional tips, Genie empowers parents to create harmonious, structured, and engaging environments for their children.Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and check out the show notes for additional resources. You can also share your tips and questions on our website or social media. Remember, every small step you take can lead to a fulfilling and memorable summer for you and your family.

Are you worried about your teen's online safety and how much control they should have over their technology?In this episode, Genie Dawkins talks about the emotional and practical journey of giving her son, Zavier, more control over his technology as he turns 13. From setting up recovery options to dealing with location settings, Genie shares her reflections on the responsibilities that come with turning 13. This episode highlights the importance of open conversations between parents and children about technology use, offering insights from previous expert interviews and personal experiences.Key Takeaways:- The significance of turning 13 and the responsibilities that come with it.- Steps for setting up technology settings safely with your teenager.- The importance of parental involvement in conversations about technology and responsibility.- Lessons from experts Jody Aman, Simone Alicia, and Elizabeth on guiding teenagers in managing online safety.- Impact on a teenager's sense of agency, self-esteem, and responsibility.- Strategies for ensuring clear expectations and boundaries regarding technology use.Timestamps:03:58 Google account supervision for kids over 1309:42 "Why not empower him with tech?"10:51 Giving children agency reduces anxiety and rebellion.15:57 Reflecting on conversations, empowering son's growing independence.18:06 YouTube ads and parental controls for kids.Links and Resources:"Black Gold" by Flying Lotus: From the Yasuke soundtrack, symbolizing Zavier’s journey into a new identity as he turns 13.Google Safety Center [Google SafetNational Online Safety: (https://nationalonlinesafety.com/)Family Online Safety Institute: (https://www.fosi.org/Google Family Link: https://families.google/familylink/Jodi Aman : https://jodiaman.com/Elizabeth Milovidov: https://www.digitalparentingcoach.com/Dr. Simone Alicia: https://www.theselfesteemdoctor.com/Quotes:1. "Turning 13 is a milestone, not just for our children, but for us as parents as we balance their newfound independence with ensuring they are safe." – Genie Dawkins2. "Conversations about technology use and boundaries are essential. It's about building trust and setting clear expectations." – Genie Dawkins3. "Empowering our teenagers with responsibilities can boost their self-esteem and sense of agency, but we have to guide them in managing those responsibilities." – Genie DawkinsSpeaker Biographies:Genie DawkinsGenie Dawkins is a dedicated and passionate advocate for parents navigating the challenges of raising children in a tech-savvy world. As the host of "The Parenting Cipher," she shares her experiences and insights into effective parenting strategies, often inspired by her journey with her own children. Genie’s candid reflections and thoughtful conversations help listeners understand and tackle the complexities of modern parenting.Join us in this episode as we delve into the journey of empowering our teenagers with the right technological tools while ensuring their safety and growth. Tune in to "The Parenting Cipher" and be part of the conversation!