Podcast
Development Desk
Hosted by Ana · EN
Development Desk—a space where parenting meets psychology, advocacy meets action, and insight replaces the noise. I’m Ana, a school psychologist and mom, sharing what I’ve learned from years inside the system and alongside families. Together, we’ll unpack the why behind the behavior, decode the school processes, and build something strong—one conversation at a time.
From insight to action. From chaos to clarity. This is Development Desk.
Disclaimer: The information shared on Development Desk is for educational and informational purposes only. While I am a licensed school psychologist, this podcast does not constitute psychological services, legal advice, or a therapeutic relationship. The views expressed are my own and do not reflect the policies or positions of any school district or employer. This content is not a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified provider in your state. Always seek appropriate support when making decisions related to your child’s education, health, or legal rights.
22episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
DR. RENEE: BEYOND THE TEETH - PART 2: Sensory, Prevention, and Real-Life Parenting
1w ago00:30:00Tap to summarizeWhat if your child's resistance at the dentist isn't defiance—but communication?In Part 2 of my conversation with pediatric dentist Dr. Renee, we explore one of the most overlooked aspects of children's oral health: how sensory needs, anxiety, and neurodiversity shape a child's experience in the dental chair. Dr. Renee shares practical ways parents can prepare children for successful dental visits, why "compliance" should never be confused with comfort, and how small, thoughtful accommodations can make a world of difference.We also tackle common myths about oral health, discuss realistic prevention strategies for busy families, and explain why building lifelong healthy habits is far more important than striving for perfection. Finally, we talk about the power of community-centered care and why parents should feel confident asking questions and partnering with healthcare providers as active members of their child's care team.Whether your child loves the dentist, fears it, or falls somewhere in between, this episode will leave you with practical tools and a new perspective on what responsive, compassionate pediatric care can look like.In this episode, you'll learn:How sensory sensitivities, ADHD, anxiety, and neurodiversity can affect dental visitsSimple ways to prepare children before they ever sit in the dental chairWhat preventive habits have the biggest impact on lifelong oral healthCommon misconceptions about brushing, snacking, and gummy vitaminsHow to confidently advocate for your child's individual needsWhy trust, relationships, and community matter in pediatric healthcareListener Takeaway:Every child deserves healthcare that meets them where they are. When parents and providers work together with curiosity, compassion, and trust, children don't just receive better care—they build the confidence and healthy habits that can last a lifetime.https://www.youtube.com/@DevelopmentDesk
Transcribe →DR. RENEE: BEYOND THE TEETH - PART 1: Episode 1: Foundations + Choosing the Right Care
1w ago00:20:38Tap to summarizeWhen most parents think about oral health, they think about brushing, flossing, and cavities. But what if your child's mouth is telling you much more?In this episode of Development Desk, I sit down with pediatric dentist Dr. Renee to explore how oral health influences a child's learning, behavior, emotional regulation, and overall development. We discuss why untreated dental pain can sometimes look like behavioral challenges, the subtle signs children may not be able to communicate, and why prevention begins long before a child complains of a toothache.We also unpack what truly sets a child-centered dental practice apart. From building trust and fostering relationships to helping children take ownership of their own oral health, Dr. Renee shares what parents should look for when choosing a provider—and the questions every family should feel empowered to ask.Whether you're preparing for your child's very first dental visit or simply looking to become a more informed advocate, this conversation will help you see pediatric dental care through a completely new lens.In this episode, you'll learn:Why oral health is closely connected to behavior, learning, and developmentSigns of dental discomfort that children may not be able to verbalizeWhat makes a pediatric dental practice truly child-centeredGreen flags (and potential red flags) when choosing a dentist for your childHow strong relationships between providers, parents, and children create healthier lifelong habitsListener Takeaway:Your child's dental health is about far more than a healthy smile—it's a foundation for their overall well-being. The right provider doesn't just treat teeth; they partners with families to help children feel safe, confident, and empowered to care for their health.https://www.youtube.com/@DevelopmentDesk
Transcribe →Amanda : Raising a Middle Schooler (Part 2)
Feb 1000:28:14Tap to summarizeIn Part 2, Ana and Amanda move into the hard conversations parents don’t always know how to name—classroom behavior, discipline, sensory overwhelm, and when advocacy feels necessary but uncomfortable. They unpack what schools are required to do, why parents often feel brushed off, and how direct, documented communication can change the trajectory for a child. Woven throughout is a candid discussion about screen limits, social media pressure, and how our own upbringing influences the boundaries we set today.https://www.youtube.com/@DevelopmentDesk
Transcribe →Let's Talk - Your Child Has an Autism Diagnosis, So Why Doesn’t the School Agree?
Feb 300:22:39Tap to summarizeMany parents are shocked and frustrated when a child has a medical diagnosis of autism but does not qualify for Autism services at school. This episode breaks down why that disconnect exists by clearly explaining the educational eligibility criteria used by schools in Texas, without clinical jargon or DSM language. Parents will walk away with clarity on what schools are legally required to evaluate, what “educational impact” really means, and why a diagnosis alone does not automatically trigger services. The goal is understanding, not dismissal—and empowerment, not confusion.https://www.youtube.com/@DevelopmentDesk
Transcribe →Amanda: Raising a Middle Schooler (Part 1)
Jan 2700:31:47Tap to summarizeIn this first conversation of a new parent interview series, Ana sits down with her longtime friend Amanda to talk honestly about raising a middle schooler in today’s world. What begins as light banter quickly unfolds into a thoughtful discussion about identity, safety, values, academic pressure, and the emotional weight parents quietly carry while trying to do right by their kids. Together, they explore how parenting decisions aren’t always about the “right” answer, but about resilience, trust, and choosing the lessons we want our children to carry forward. This episode is a reminder that there is no perfect parenting, only intentional parenting.https://www.youtube.com/@DevelopmentDesk
Transcribe →Let's Talk About - After School Routines
Jan 2000:23:33Tap to summarizeAfter school is when many children unravel and parents are left wondering why homework feels impossible. In this episode, we unpack what’s really happening neurologically and emotionally after a long school day, and why dysregulation is not defiance. You’ll learn practical, realistic strategies to help your child decompress, transition, and approach homework with less resistance. The takeaway: smoother evenings start with regulation, not pressure.https://www.youtube.com/@DevelopmentDesk
Transcribe →Verenice, PhD, LP, LSSP : Emotional Independence and Tools for Teen Self-Reflection
Nov 1800:41:31Tap to summarizeWhat does it mean for a child or teen to become emotionally independent—and how can parents support that journey without pushing too soon? In this episode, Dr. Verenice D’Santiago-Eastman helps us unpack age-appropriate milestones of emotional growth and shares practical tools to help kids name their thoughts, challenge unhelpful patterns, and build their own self-regulation toolkit. From mindfulness to journaling to the right questions at the right time, this conversation will help parents support reflection without pressure.https://www.youtube.com/@DevelopmentDesk
Transcribe →Claudia Flores, SLP : Speech Services in School
Nov 1100:39:22Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we sit down with Claudia Flores, a seasoned Speech-Language Pathologist who has spent over a decade working across medical and school settings. Claudia brings a wealth of experience and a heart for empowering families, educators, and students with language needs. Together, we dive into the power of early intervention, how parents can naturally support their child’s communication at home, and why genuine collaboration between parents and teachers matters more than ever.You’ll also hear Claudia’s perspective on what real appreciation for teachers looks like and how small shifts in understanding can make a big difference for every child. You’ll walk away with simple, practical tools to boost your child’s communication skills—and a deeper understanding of how to partner effectively with educators for your child’s success.https://www.youtube.com/@DevelopmentDesk
Transcribe →(Part 2) Cassie Romo, PhD : Burnout, Inclusion, and Grace in the School-Family Partnership
Nov 600:33:55Tap to summarizeWhat happens when schools ask for more family engagement — but parents and teachers are already burned out? In Part 2 of our conversation, Dr. Cassie Romo shares real talk on balancing school expectations with family capacity, designing events that actually work for communities, and how to partner with grace on both sides.We also explore meaningful inclusion for students with disabilities and how educators and families can keep the child at the center — even when resources are stretched.This episode is for any parent or teacher looking to build bridges, not burnout.https://www.youtube.com/@DevelopmentDesk
Transcribe →(Part 1) Cassie Romo, PhD : Advocacy, IEPs, and Finding Your Voice as a Parent
Nov 400:19:54Tap to summarizeDr. Cassie Romo has sat on both sides of the IEP table — as a school administrator and as a parent of a child with Down syndrome. In this powerful conversation, she opens up about what it means to advocate for your child, the overwhelm parents face in special education, and the communication gaps that often leave families feeling lost.We talk about why your voice matters, even when you feel unsure, and how schools can create more compassionate spaces for parents navigating complex decisions.If you’ve ever second-guessed yourself in a meeting or worried about being “too much,” this episode is your reminder: you are your child’s best advocate.https://www.youtube.com/@DevelopmentDesk
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