Speech Therapy and ADHD: How A Pediatric Speech Therapist in NYC Can Help Kids Focus, Communicate, and Thrive

You may be wondering how a speech-language pathologist can help a child with ADHD?

First, I invite you to consider that ADHD is not a disorder to be ‘fixed’.

Your child just learns differently than others, and that is OK.

ADHD is simply a learning difference – a different way of thinking, doing and being in this world.

Did you know neurodivergent learners can process incoming stimuli 10 times faster than neuro-typical learners?

That’s a super power! Neurodivergent learners are real- life super heros that thrive with individualized tailored strategies to optimize success for their fast- thinking brains!

Neurodivergent individuals with learning differences can work one-on-one with a speech therapist who is experienced in executive thinking skills.

What exactly are executive thinking skills?

Executive thinking refers to the ability to focus, organize, plan, and then successfully execute a particular task or goal in one’s mind.

Executive thinking involves a collection and synergy of a multitude of different learned skills such as the ability to:

emotionally regulate the body and mind
focus and attend to a desired task
organize one’s thoughts
prioritize and plan accordingly
adapt to new situations
engage in abstract thinking
be flexible when a situation changes

Executive thinking skills are developed in early childhood and continue into young adulthood, as the child matures, grows and develops greater critical thinking skills.

Neurodivergent learners commonly have challenges with tasks that require executive thinking skills.

For example, a child that may have difficulties in the area of executive functioning may experience:

Challenges with emotional regulation
Difficulty with impulse control
Trouble with time management
Difficulty with organizational tasks
Struggles with remembering information
Challenges with planning, taking steps and making decisions
Easily overwhelmed by tasks or environmental stimuli

Therefore, many neurodivergent children and adolescents may struggle with making plans or decisions.

Executive thinking skills involve an interplay of many complex cognitive processes including: inhibitory control, working memory and flexibility in thinking.

Due to the complex nature of these interwoven cognitive skills executive thinking develops slowly over time as each child grows and matures physically, emotionally and mentally.

Executive thinking skills can be strongly nurtured and fostered within a neurodivergent affirming manner.

Conversely, childhood stress, trauma and limited access to basic needs like safety, food, emotional support and an engaging education can have a deleterious impact on a child’s overall executive thinking skills.

The GOOD NEWS is that these executive thinking skills are extremely changeable!

Your child can work with an experienced speech-language pathologist and gain practice and support in building many of these important foundational learning skills:

Improving working memory
Building better organization of thoughts and ideas
Developing flexibility in thinking and
Improving communication adaptability
Improving emotional regulation
Fostering deeper social connections

Remember, your child is a unique human with superpowers! Your little super hero might just need some extra guidance on how to use those special talents!

If you’re ready for some support along the way …

Chatty Child’s speech therapists can assess your child’s speech and language developmental needs and craft an individually tailored treatment plan to address any areas of concern; while working seamlessly with your child’s medical team to achieve the best therapeutic outcomes for your child and family.

To book an in-person or online speech therapy assessment and treatment sessions with Heather Lynn Boerner, MA CCC/SLP, please visit our website at: www.chattychild.com; email: info@chattychild.com; or call: 347 491 4451

Sincerely,

Heather Lynn Boerner, MA CCC/SLP

Meet the Author: A Pediatric Speech Therapist in NYC

Heather Lynn Boerner, MA CCC/SLP, is a nationally certified and New York State licensed speech-language pathologist with over two decades of experience providing pediatric speech therapy in NYC. In addition to her clinical background, Heather is a certified mindfulness and meditation teacher, a trauma-informed provider, and a proud neurodiverse and differently-abled individual. Her personal and professional experiences deeply inform her approach to care.

Heather’s own journey as a differently-abled person led her to establish Chatty Child Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy, PLLC, an inclusive practice dedicated to empowering children through individualized, compassionate support. She is also the author of Carrie the Colorful Chameleon, a children’s book that promotes confidence, learning, and friendship. The story includes a teaching guide designed for use by parents and educators alike.

Heather and her team offer services both in-person at their Tribeca, Manhattan clinic and virtually throughout New York State, helping children grow in confidence, communication, and self-expression.

Chatty Child Speech, Occupational & Physical Therapy, PLLC

Creating Possibilities .. one child at a time ..

Chatty Child Provides Pediatric Speech & Occupational Therapy & Classes in Tribeca, Manhattan, NYC – In Person at 325 Broadway Suite 403 New York, NY 10007 & serving the entire state of New York including: NYC, Westchester, Hudson Valley, Long Island via online therapy in New York State.