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For those who are new to our quarterly mini-conference platform, GHF Conversations is a half-day of topic-driven programming featuring two expert presenters, each of whom are followed by facilitated conversation sessions with and for our thoughtful and engaging community of educators and parents. We warmly invite you to log in and participate as much or as little as you’re comfortable, but rest assured that you’re among people who understand and care. RSVP for your spot here: GHF Conversations
Session One: 8-9:30am PT / 11-12:30pm ET
Chris Wells, PhD presents: Embracing Growth: The Power of Positive Disintegration
In this engaging session, we will explore the theory of positive disintegration and its modern relevance and application in the gifted. Designed for homeschool families, this talk will delve into how the emotional and intellectual challenges often faced by gifted individuals can serve as catalysts for personal growth and deeper self-understanding. We’ll discuss the different types of development Dabrowski put forth, the role of emotional intensity, and strategies for supporting children through their unique journeys. Join us to discover how embracing disintegration can lead to extraordinary transformation and empower parents and young people to thrive in their personal growth and educational pursuits.
Chris Wells, PhD, is a dedicated advocate for neurodivergent individuals, drawing on personal experience and a deep understanding of Dąbrowski's theory of positive disintegration. As a writer, guide, and committed Dąbrowski scholar, Chris explores how this transformative theory can contribute to personal growth and a deeper understanding of giftedness and neurodivergence. They serve as the founding president of the Dąbrowski Center and co-host of the Positive Disintegration Podcast, where they aim to make this complex theory more accessible and relevant to everyday life. Chris writes for the Positive Disintegration newsletter on Substack, sharing insights that blend professional expertise with lived experience.
https://dabrowskicenter.org/
https://www.positivedisintegration.org/listen/pod
https://www.positivedisintegration.org/
Session Two: 9:45-11:15am PT / 12:45-2:15pm ET
Marni Kammersell, MA and Marna Wohlfeld, MA present: PDA - Pathological Demand Avoidance? Persistent Drive for Autonomy!
Come learn how to successfully support gifted learners with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), characterized by an anxiety-driven need for control, and resistance to everyday demands. 2e doctoral candidates Marni and Marna draw upon the academic literature and insights from educators and adults with PDA, alongside their own experiences as parents of gifted PDA youth, to discuss the top 10 best practices for cooperating with gifted PDAers, including: using a low-demand approach, declarative versus imperative language, employing novelty, co-regulation of the nervous system on the part of an emotionally attuned adult, and a lot of choice and flexibility. Once there is an understanding of how to meet PDA learners where they are and recognize that refusal is generally a “can’t, not won’t” for this population, support strategies can be implemented.
Marni Kammersell, M.A., (she/her) is a neurodivergent parent to three neurodivergent, twice-exceptional children. She is passionate about supporting parents and families in understanding and embracing neurodivergence. Marni has over 15 years of experience in alternative education and is currently a doctoral student at Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity in Education. She specializes in helping families create neuro-affirming, liberatory educational cultures. You can find her at: www.wanderingbrightly.com
Marna Wohlfeld, M.A., is a dedicated mom of four and a doctoral student at Bridges Graduate School for Cognitive Diversity in Education. Passionate about supporting twice-exceptional (2e) kids and their families, Marna focuses on leveraging their strengths and interests to create environments where they can truly thrive. Marna serves as GHF’s Board Vice President, Director of Press, and is the Editor of the monthly GHF Journey. She is a trained SENG group facilitator with a Level 1 training certificate from PDA North America. Contact Marna at marna.wohlfeld@ghflearners.org
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