David Palmer | SpeakerHub

Personal Details

Bio

Dr. David Palmer is a champion and partner for neurodivergent students and their families. With a Doctor of Education degree in special education and nearly 30 years of experience as a teacher, principal, and Learning Needs Specialist, David is a respected expert in the field. But what sets him apart is his deep empathy and personal connection to neurodivergence as someone who also lives with ADHD.

David is the founder and director of Inclusion Matters Education Services (IMES), where he is dedicated to supporting neurodivergent students and their families. He is an award-winning researcher, certified ADHD educator, and Autism-Informed professional, and his expertise in these areas has made him a sought-after consultant, coach, and advocate. David is committed to empowering neurodivergent students and helping them succeed in school and life. His passion for inclusion is driven by his belief that all students deserve the opportunity to learn and thrive.

In addition to his academic credentials and professional experience, David's commitment to inclusion is rooted in his personal life. He has a deep understanding of the challenges faced by neurodivergent students and their families, as he is a dedicated husband and father of six children, some of whom are also neurodivergent. He knows the joys and struggles of raising a neurodivergent family and uses his experiences to inform his work and help other families.

David loves spending time with his family, playing music, and telling corny dad jokes. His ultimate goal is to see his children live out their purpose and potential by serving others and solving problems.

Current position (1)

Expert in Neurodivergence, Speaker, Consultant

Inclusion Matters Education Services

Degrees (1)

Curriculum and Instruction: Special Education

Liberty University

2019 to 2022

Presentations

Presentations (5)

EMPATHY HAS ITS P.L.A.C.E.

Join Dr. David Palmer, an experienced educator and advocate for inclusive education, for this insightful session. This presentation delves into the transformative power of genuine empathy in educational settings, especially for individuals with disabilities. Dr. Palmer, with a rich background in special education and personal experience as a neurodivergent individual and parent, will guide attendees through understanding empathy's multifaceted nature and its critical role in fostering inclusive and compassionate educational environments.

Key highlights of the session include:

• Exploring the concept of empathy, differentiating it from sympathy, and understanding its emotional and cognitive aspects.
• Practical strategies for cultivating authentic compassion and empathetic practice in therapeutic settings.
• Discussing the broader implications of empathy in creating an inclusive culture within educational therapy and beyond.

What is WCSBNA? New Way to Empower Neurodivergent Children

Join Dr. David Palmer for a groundbreaking session on Whole-Child, Strength-Based, Neuro-Affirming (WCSBNA) approaches, a transformative method to empower neurodivergent children. This presentation is designed for parents, educators, and professionals committed to fostering environments where neurodivergent children can grow, learn, and thrive at school and home.

Key aspects of the session include:

Understanding WCSBNA: An introduction to the Whole-Child, Strength-Based, Neuro-Affirming approach, its principles, and its significance in the context of neurodivergence.

How to implement the Balance Embodied Attachment Model.

Practical Applications: Offering actionable strategies for parents and educators to apply WCSBNA principles in daily interactions and educational settings.

Icebergs and Volcanoes: Supporting Neurodivergent and Trauma-Impacted Children

Discover the depths of supporting neurodivergent children facing emotional and behavioral challenges in 'Icebergs and Volcanoes: Supporting Neurodivergent and Trauma-Impacted Children.' This talk delves into the often-hidden complexities beneath these challenges, akin to icebergs, and strategies to manage their explosive 'volcano' moments.

Leveraging my personal journey with ADHD, parenting neurodiverse children, and professional expertise in special education and as a ADHD, ASD, and Trauma Certified Professional, I offer a unique blend of authority, empathy, and relatability. My presentation style is both professional and practical, designed to resonate with educators and parents alike.

We'll explore concepts from PolyVagal Theory, Trauma-Informed Education, and Brain/Body Parenting, providing actionable insights and techniques to support and empower neurodiverse children in their journeys effectively.

Creating Inclusive Spaces: Creating Environments Where Everyone Belongs

'Creating Inclusive Spaces: Environments Where Everyone Belongs,' a vital discussion on fostering inclusive environments in educational and community settings. This session is designed to empower educators, parents, and community leaders with strategies to create spaces where all individuals, particularly neurodivergent students, feel valued and included.

Key points of this presentation include:

• Understanding Inclusion: Exploring the essence of inclusion beyond mere physical presence, focusing on meaningful participation and a sense of belonging for every individual.
• Strategies for Inclusivity: Practical steps and techniques for adapting environments to be more welcoming and accommodating for diverse needs.
• The Role of Empathy: Highlighting empathy as a cornerstone in building inclusive spaces, and how it can be effectively cultivated and implemented.
• Community Collaboration: Emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts among educators, parents, and community members.

Jumpstarting Frontal Lobes: Support Our Kid's Executive Function Skills

Explore the critical world of Executive Function Skills in this comprehensive presentation, essential for the success of children and adolescents in both academic and life contexts. But what exactly are these crucial skills, and how can we effectively teach and nurture them as our children grow?

Delve into the fascinating science behind executive function skills, understanding their pivotal role in cognitive development and everyday decision-making. We'll unravel the intricacies of key skills like working memory, response inhibition, and sustained attention, and their impact on a child's ability to plan, organize, and regulate emotions.

This session is not just theoretical; it's packed with practical, evidence-based strategies to enhance these skills in young minds. We’ll discuss age-appropriate techniques and activities that parents and educators can implement to foster these abilities, aiding children in developing the resilience and adaptability needed for life's challenges.

Past talks (3)

Empathy Unleashed

Association of Educational Therapists Annual Conference

Virtual

November 4, 2023

Empathy Unleashed: transform lives with authentic compassion

NAMI

virtual

June 8, 2023

Supporting Children in Times of Stress and Trauma

Phillips/ VAISEF

Virtual