Why Neurodivergent Teachers Burn Out (And Their Coworkers Don't) with Dr. Jennifer Osborne
Why do so many neurodivergent teachers burn out while the colleagues beside them seem fine? Dr. Jennifer Osborne, Assistant Principal and founder of Neuro-AFFIRMing Schools, is back by popular demand after her first conversation with Rick and Tisha became the show's number two episode of all time.
This time they walk through a real school day together, from the overwhelmed arrival to the moment you try to switch off. Jennifer explains the "guessing game" of unspoken expectations and why explicit communication helps every brain in the building, and gives a plain-language answer to the question "what is neurodivergent?" Tisha shares what happened when she spent her lunch breaks regulating in her car, and they dig into taking the eight-to-four literally, why teachers are not robots, cognitive load, and why the kids will be fine. Rick also tries to explain Guy Fawkes Night, with mixed results.
Honest, practical, and full of permission for any educator who has been trying to be a superhero.
00:00 Introduction to British Culture and Holidays
03:01 Understanding Guy Fawkes Day
06:04 Celebrations Beyond Guy Fawkes
06:59 Neurodivergence in Education
09:51 Communication Challenges for Neurodivergent Leaders
14:05 Defining Neurodivergence
20:55 The Importance of Neurodiversity Awareness
24:07 Preparing for the Day: Strategies for Students and Teachers
26:12 Navigating Morning Challenges: Teacher and Administrator Perspectives
29:19 Understanding Communication Styles: The Importance of Relationships
32:44 Leveraging Personality Insights: Using Enneagram for Better Interactions
37:20 Managing Midday Stress: Strategies for Educators
41:10 Finding Balance: The Need for Breaks and Self-Regulation
47:25 Emotional Learning: Connecting SEL with Effective Teaching
48:32 Understanding Teacher Burnout and Work-Life Balance
51:44 Navigating Neurodivergence in Education
54:53 Cognitive Load and Effective Teaching Strategies
56:15 Personal Reflections and Travel Experiences
1:04:31 Upcoming Events and Future Plans
About Jennifer Osborne, Ph.D.
Dr. Jennifer Osborne is an Assistant Principal and founder of Neuro-AFFIRMing Schools, where she supports school leaders in creating neuro-affirming schools where all educators and students thrive.
Follow Jennifer Osborne, Ph.D. on:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61592195217396
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferosbornewrites/
Other: neuroaffirmingschools.com
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