Neuroaffirming Learning: Supporting Families & Children with PDA and Beyond

In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Shontaye Jones sits down with Marni Kammersell, a neurodivergent researcher, consultant, and advocate who helps families build neuroaffirming learning environments. Drawing from her doctoral research and lived experience, Marni shares insights on how autonomy-supportive practices foster resilience, growth, and well-being for children and families.

Together, they explore the unique challenges and strengths of families raising neurodivergent children, with a special focus on Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), unschooling/self-directed education, and low-demand approaches to support authentic learning. Marni also speaks about the intersections of giftedness and neurodivergence, and how these complexities can affect both identification and therapy.

Listeners will walk away with practical, strengths-based strategies and a deeper understanding of how to create inclusive, affirming, and supportive spaces for children and families.

Guests

Marni Kammersell
M.A.
Marni Kammersell is a neurodivergent researcher and consultant who supports families in creating neuro-affirming learning environments. Her doctoral research focuses on family resilience and how autonomy-supportive practices foster growth and well-being. With over 15 years of experience in alternative education, Marni draws on both research and lived experience to support neurodivergent youth and their families. Learn more at wanderingbrightly.com.

Learning Objectives

Define what “neuroaffirming learning” means and why it is important.
Identify strategies to support families of children with PDA and other neurodivergent profiles.
Apply autonomy-supportive practices to foster resilience in both students and families.
Recognize how strengths-based approaches can transform educational and therapeutic experiences.

Agenda

10 minutes	Understanding PDA
5 minutes	Role of SLPs and other educators
5 minutes	Regulation
10 minutes	Importance of listening and collaboration

Disclosures

Financial Disclosures:	Shontaye and Marni have no financial relationships to disclose.
Non-Financial Disclosures:	Shontaye and Marni have no relevant non-financial relationships to disclose.
Content Disclosures:	Shontaye and Marni have no additional content information to disclose.

ASHA

This course is offered for .05 ASHA CEUs, Introductory Level, Professional Area

Neuroaffirming Learning: Supporting Families & Children with PDA and Beyond: $7.00
In this episode of Bright Conversations, host Shontaye Jones sits down with Marni Kammersell, a neurodivergent researcher, consultant, and advocate who helps families build neuroaffirming learning environments. Drawing from her doctoral research and lived experience, Marni shares insights on how autonomy-supportive practices foster resilience, growth, and well-being for children and families. Includes access to the recorded episode and optional ASHA reporting.