What Helps Neurodivergent Kids Thrive When School Doesn’t Fit?
What happens when a child isn’t failing because they can’t learn, but because the system isn’t built for how they learn? In this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman to talk about what truly helps neurodivergent students grow.
We get into the teachers who change everything, why confidence can matter just as much as accommodations, and what families need to hear when they feel worn down. I also share parts of my own school story, because this topic isn’t abstract for me, it’s personal.
You’ll hear why self-advocacy can’t wait until college, what schools still miss about autistic and learning disabled students, and why labels only tell part of the story. Dr. Tiegerman also explains the bigger mission behind his family’s work and the belief that no child should be counted out.
If you’re a parent, educator, caregiver, or someone finding your way after a diagnosis, I think this episode will leave you with hope, and maybe a few hard questions worth sitting with.
About the Guest
Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman is a psychologist and Chief Operating Officer of Tiegerman, an organization that supports children and adults with learning, language, and developmental needs. His work spans assessment, education, advocacy, and family support.
Timestamps
0:02 - I welcome Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman and we start with the human side of his story
5:49 - How his family history shaped his work in special education
12:38 - Why strengths matter just as much as struggles
22:48 - What parents need to know about advocacy and support
27:17 - Why self-advocacy becomes critical in college
31:35 - When traditional education falls short for neurodivergent students
42:16 - What schools still misunderstand about autistic students
46:42 - What parents taught him that textbooks never could
55:31 - What gives him hope, and what still needs to change
63:07 - His message for exhausted parents who are scared about the future
Dr. Tiegermen's Resources:
Tiegerman website - www.tiegerman.org. Dr. Tegerman shared this as the main place to learn more about the organization and its programs.
Tiegerman main phone number - 516-609-2000, extension 100 for the receptionist. He said this is a starting point for being directed to the right person or service.
If this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs the reminder that they’re not alone.
#NeurodivergentConnection #AutismSupport #ADHDAwareness #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocacy
Hosted by Reid Miles.
Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.
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