Development Desk
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.
Episodes
19 episodes
Amanda : Raising a Middle Schooler (Part 2)
In 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...
Let's Talk - Your Child Has an Autism Diagnosis, So Why Doesn’t the School Agree?
Many 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 cri...
Amanda: Raising a Middle Schooler (Part 1)
In 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 discussi...
Let's Talk About - After School Routines
After 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 def...
Verenice, PhD, LP, LSSP : Emotional Independence and Tools for Teen Self-Reflection
What 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 ...
Claudia Flores, SLP : Speech Services in School
In 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, educator...
(Part 2) Cassie Romo, PhD : Burnout, Inclusion, and Grace in the School-Family Partnership
What 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 ...
(Part 1) Cassie Romo, PhD : Advocacy, IEPs, and Finding Your Voice as a Parent
Dr. 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 ...
(Part 2) Ashley Sommerhalder, MD : Hormones, Burnout, and the Ripple Effect of Women’s Health
In Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Ashley Sommerhalder, we dig into the “what now?”—the screenings, tests, and small shifts that can make a big difference when you’re feeling off. We discuss why traditional doctor visits often fall short, h...
(Part 1) Ashley Sommerhalder, MD – Hormones, Burnout, and the Ripple Effect of Women’s Health
What if your brain fog, fatigue, or irritability isn’t “just parenting”—but a deeper signal from your body? In Part 1 of this powerful conversation, Dr. Ashley Sommerhalder, a board-certified family medicine physician and menopause practitioner...
Thomas Maese : Systems, Support, and the Power of Great Teaching
In this episode, we sit down with Thomas Jonathan Maese—an MTSS/504 Coordinator, teacher mentor, and community-rooted educator who brings a unique lens to inclusive education. From early childhood to secondary classrooms, Thomas has worked acro...
Let's Talk About - Decoding the Meltdown
When kids act out, it’s easy to focus on what they did—but the real power lies in understanding why. In this short but impactful episode, we explore the four functions of behavior using the EATS framework: Escape, Attention...
Paddie the Barber : Parenting, Behavior, and the Stories Behind the Chair
What can a barber’s chair reveal about parenting, behavior, and childhood development? In this episode, Ana sits down with Paddie, a skilled barber and studio owner who’s spent years observing family dynamics while shaping up hairlines. From ma...
Emilie Rogers, LSSP, LPA-I : Beyond the Report - How Psychological Assessments Empower Families
With decades of experience in both schools and private practice, Emilie of Stonebridge Behavioral Alliance joins us to unpack the powerful role psychological evaluations can play in a child’s life. We explore how assessments can open doors to s...
Let's Talk About - Understanding IEPs
When it comes to your child’s education, your voice matters. In this episode, we unpack the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process—what it is, why your attendance is critical, and how you can show up prepared. From knowing what to focus...
Anna Martinez, LSSP : Building Resilience Through the Middle School Transition
The move from elementary to middle school is more than just a change in classrooms—it’s a shift in identity, independence, and expectations. In this episode, school psychologist Anna Martinez brings her unique lens from both elementary and midd...
Let's Talk About - Parent Requests for Evaluation
When should you request a school evaluation for your child? In this episode, Ana breaks down the key signs parents should pay attention to—academic red flags, behavior or attention concerns, and communication or developmental delays. You’ll lea...
Verenice, PhD, LP, LSSP : Mental Health, Independence, and Parent Support
In this empowering episode, Dr. Verenice D’Santiago-Eastman—a licensed psychologist and school psychologist—shares how we can support preteens and adolescents navigating anxiety and depression. From fostering independence to using motivational ...
Brainwaves & Backpacks MOVING to Development Desk: A New Chapter
After a meaningful run co-hosted by Ana and Jessica, Brainwaves & Backpacks is closing its final chapter—and opening the door to a brand new one. In this special farewell episode, Ana shares a heartfelt message about the journey, t...