Harmony in
Neurodiversity
THE BLOG
Welcome to Harmony in Neurodiversity, a blog dedicated to exploring the profound impact of music and positive parenting strategies on the lives of neurodivergent individuals. Join Samantha, a board-certified Neurologic Music Therapy fellow and a passionate Positive Discipline Parent Educator, as she shares her expertise in leveraging the power of music and effective parenting approaches to support and empower neurodiverse communities.
In her blog posts, Samantha delves into the intricate connections between music and the brain. She explores how specific musical elements and interventions can enhance cognitive functions, regulate emotions, improve communication, and promote social interaction among neurodivergent individuals. Through insightful articles and case studies, she demonstrates how rhythm, melody, and lyrics can serve as powerful tools for therapeutic interventions, fostering growth and self-expression.
Positive Discipline Parenting Strategies:
Drawing from her expertise as a Positive Discipline Parent Educator, Samantha sheds light on nurturing positive relationships between parents and neurodivergent children. Her blog offers practical advice, evidence-based strategies, and real-life anecdotes that empower parents and caregivers to cultivate respectful, encouraging, and effective parenting techniques. From setting clear boundaries to fostering a supportive environment, Samantha guides readers in navigating the challenges and joys of parenting neurodiverse children.
Exploring Intersectionality:
Samantha doesn't limit her discussions to singular approaches. Instead, she delves into the intersectionality of Neurologic Music Therapy and Positive Discipline Parenting, illustrating how these methodologies complement each other. Through her insightful content, she showcases how the harmonious integration of music-based interventions and positive parenting strategies can create holistic support systems for neurodivergent individuals, promoting their well-being and personal growth.
Community Engagement and Resources:
Additionally, Samantha fosters a vibrant online community where readers can engage, share experiences, and seek advice. She curates a wealth of resources, including recommended readings, workshops, and practical tools, empowering her audience to implement valuable insights into their lives effectively.
The Dopamine Menu: Practical Strategies for your ADHD or Autistic Child
Sometimes I sit on my couch completely unable to move. I want to do everything on my to do list but I can’t get my ADHD brain to move my body. I feel so lazy and worthless. Why can’t I move?!
Do you ever see this in your ADHD or Autistic kid? Like they’re running on empty when it comes to motivation, focus, or just getting through the day?
It’s not just you, and it’s not just me.
Many neurodivergent brains don’t naturally produce as much dopamine—the “feel-good” brain chemical that helps with motivation, learning, and regulation. This can make everything from getting dressed in the morning to finishing homework feel like climbing Mount Everest in flip-flops.
So, how do we help our kids stay engaged, regulated, and motivated without constant battles? We use the Dopamine Menu.
Briana McCallum breaks it down in episode 89 of the Every Brain is Different podcast.
What is a Dopamine Menu?
Think of it like a restaurant menu, but instead of food, it’s filled with activities and strategies that give your child’s brain the dopamine boost it needs in a healthy, sustainable way. Instead of relying on random rewards or screen time as the only motivator, a dopamine menu offers multiple levels of support to help regulate and refuel their brain.
🍏 The Wholesome Dopamine Boosters
These are the everyday habits that keep their dopamine levels steady and support long-term regulation:
✅ Playing outside
✅ Movement (jumping, swinging, climbing)
✅ Creative play (drawing, LEGO, storytelling)
✅ Deep-pressure input (weighted blankets, big hugs, sensory swings)
🍟 The Quick Fixes
Sometimes, they just need a fast hit of dopamine to reset! These offer small, instant boosts:
⚡ Fidget toys
⚡ Listening to a favorite song
⚡ A short burst of screen time
⚡ Popping bubble wrap (so satisfying, right?)
🍰 The Big Rewards
These are planned, bigger dopamine boosts that help maintain long-term motivation:
🎉 A trip to the park
🎉 A special one-on-one outing
🎉 Their favorite meal
🎉 A family movie night with popcorn
How to Build Your Child’s Dopamine Menu
You can create a customized dopamine menu with your child.
Here’s how:
1️⃣ Observe: Pay attention to what naturally makes your child happy, calm, or re-engaged. What activities help them reset?
2️⃣ Categorize: Sort these activities into the different sections of the menu (Wholesome, Quick Fixes, and Big Rewards).
3️⃣ Use It: When your child is struggling, redirect them to their menu options instead of just saying “calm down” or “focus.” Give them choices that work for their brain.
Why It Works
Neurodivergent kids often hear “just try harder” when they’re struggling with focus or motivation. But it’s not about trying harder—it’s about giving their brain what it needs to function. A dopamine menu helps them learn self-regulation strategies while giving them a sense of control and autonomy.
To listen to the whole conversation check out episode 89 of the Every Brain is Different podcast with special guest, Briana McCallum where she talks about more practical ways to support your neurodivergent child.
