ADHD Parenting

“When Emotions Block Learning for Students with ADHD” [Video Replay & Podcast #600]

Access the video replay, listen to the podcast episode (#600), download the slide presentation, and learn how to get a certificate of attendance for this ADHD Experts webinar originally broadcast on March 18, 2026.

ADHD Expert: Gena VanderMeulen, M.A. Ed. Updated on March 25, 2026
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Episode Description

Why do students freeze, shut down, or become emotional in class, even when they have the skills to succeed? Emotional regulation shapes learning, motivation, and engagement. When students understand their emotions and feel supported, they are better able to manage stress, build positive relationships with peers and teachers, and learn in a stable environment.

In this webinar, we’ll examine through case studies and insights from neuroscience what blocks student progress and how educators, caregivers, therapists, and other adults can respond with practical, compassionate strategies. Participants will leave with tools to support emotional regulation and create learning environments that feel safe, supportive and effective.

In this webinar you will learn:

  • Why emotions can block students’ abilities to utilize executive functions
  • Why planners are not the most effective initial tool when supporting students with ADHD
  • About strategies and tools that can be used to help students understand their emotions and monitor their emotional readiness to learn
  • About approaches that parents and educators can use to support students who are often emotionally dysregulated

Watch the Video Replay

Enter your email address in the box above labeled “Video Replay + Slide Access” to watch the video replay (closed captions available) and download the slide presentation.

Webinar Sponsor

 

Brain Balance helps kids, teens and adults with ADHD, learning differences, anxiety & more through our integrative cognitive development and brain wellness program. Our approach combines cognitive, physical and sensory training with nutritional guidance to strengthen and build brain connectivity without the use of medication. Stronger connections translate to improved attention, behaviors, and social-emotional well-being.

ADDitude thanks our sponsors for supporting our webinars. Sponsorship has no influence on speaker selection or webinar content.

Obtain a Certificate of Attendance

If you attended the live webinar on March 18, 2026, watched the video replay, or listened to the podcast, you may purchase a certificate of attendance option (cost: $10). Note: ADDitude does not offer CEU credits. Click here to purchase the certificate of attendance option »

Emotions in the Classroom: Resources

Meet the Expert Speaker

Gena VanderMeulen, M.A. Ed, ACC, is an academic ADHD coach at the ADHD Center of West Michigan. She draws on more than 30 years of experience as a high school English teacher and specializes in supporting middle school, high school, and college students as they navigate academic systems, build confidence, and rediscover joy in learning.

Gena is a Certified Professional Academic Coach and an ICF Associate Certified Coach (ACC), and she holds advanced credentials in executive function, study strategies, and applied neuroscience. She also holds post-baccalaureate certificates from Landmark College in executive functions and supporting autistic students. Gena is currently pursuing a doctorate at the Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity in Education in Los Angeles.

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