Sensory Processing & Regulation

This concise, animated educational video provides a scientifically grounded overview of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Produced by the Duke Center for Autism and Brain Development, it defines autism as a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting social and communication abilities while highlighting that it affects approximately 1 in 54 children in the United States. The video utilizes simple, hand-drawn animations on graph paper to break down complex medical concepts into accessible information. The content explores several key themes, including the "spectrum" nature of the disorder (meaning support needs vary significantly from person to person), common traits such as repetitive behaviors and sensory sensitivities, and the potential strengths associated with autism, such as aptitude in math, music, and art. It also addresses the biological roots of autism, the importance of early diagnosis (as early as 18-24 months), and common co-occurring conditions like anxiety or ADHD. For educators, this video serves as an excellent primer for promoting neurodiversity and empathy in the classroom. It moves beyond stereotypes to present a balanced view of autism that acknowledges challenges while celebrating the unique contributions autistic individuals make to society. It is particularly useful for Health, Biology, and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculums to help destigmatize neurodivergence and foster an inclusive environment.

This educational video demystifies Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) by exploring the internal experience of living with the condition. Hosted by Jessica McCabe, the video moves beyond clinical definitions to offer relatable, concrete metaphors that describe executive dysfunction, working memory challenges, and emotional dysregulation. It emphasizes that ADHD behaviors are not character flaws but rather neurological differences in how the brain regulates attention and emotion. The content breaks down complex neurological concepts into accessible analogies, such as comparing the brain to a CEO with a bad secretary, working memory to a whiteboard that constantly needs erasing, and emotional regulation to a severe sunburn. The video addresses key themes including the myth of "attention deficit" (versus attention regulation), the invisibility of the struggle, and the strengths that often accompany ADHD brains, such as creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. For educators, this resource is invaluable for fostering empathy and understanding in the classroom. It provides a shared language for teachers and students to discuss learning differences without stigma. By framing ADHD through mechanical and situational metaphors—like a race car with bicycle brakes—it offers students with ADHD a way to articulate their experiences and helps neurotypical peers understand why certain tasks are more challenging for their classmates.

This educational video demystifies Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) by exploring the internal experience of living with the condition. Hosted by Jessica McCabe, the video moves beyond clinical definitions to offer relatable, concrete metaphors that describe executive dysfunction, working memory challenges, and emotional dysregulation. It emphasizes that ADHD behaviors are not character flaws but rather neurological differences in how the brain regulates attention and emotion. The content breaks down complex neurological concepts into accessible analogies, such as comparing the brain to a CEO with a bad secretary, working memory to a whiteboard that constantly needs erasing, and emotional regulation to a severe sunburn. The video addresses key themes including the myth of "attention deficit" (versus attention regulation), the invisibility of the struggle, and the strengths that often accompany ADHD brains, such as creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. For educators, this resource is invaluable for fostering empathy and understanding in the classroom. It provides a shared language for teachers and students to discuss learning differences without stigma. By framing ADHD through mechanical and situational metaphors—like a race car with bicycle brakes—it offers students with ADHD a way to articulate their experiences and helps neurotypical peers understand why certain tasks are more challenging for their classmates.

This educational video demystifies Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) by exploring the internal experience of living with the condition. Hosted by Jessica McCabe, the video moves beyond clinical definitions to offer relatable, concrete metaphors that describe executive dysfunction, working memory challenges, and emotional dysregulation. It emphasizes that ADHD behaviors are not character flaws but rather neurological differences in how the brain regulates attention and emotion. The content breaks down complex neurological concepts into accessible analogies, such as comparing the brain to a CEO with a bad secretary, working memory to a whiteboard that constantly needs erasing, and emotional regulation to a severe sunburn. The video addresses key themes including the myth of "attention deficit" (versus attention regulation), the invisibility of the struggle, and the strengths that often accompany ADHD brains, such as creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. For educators, this resource is invaluable for fostering empathy and understanding in the classroom. It provides a shared language for teachers and students to discuss learning differences without stigma. By framing ADHD through mechanical and situational metaphors—like a race car with bicycle brakes—it offers students with ADHD a way to articulate their experiences and helps neurotypical peers understand why certain tasks are more challenging for their classmates.