Attention Deficit Disorders
with or without Hyperactivity
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Hope and practical ideas are presented in this third edition of the popular book by two clinical psychologists. Children and parents find this little guide very helpful. Suddenly, the problems are seen as something the child can learn how to manage with help from family. The authors use easy-to-read text and entertaining cartoons, to present activities tips for dealing with friends, family, and schoolwork. Strategies include learning to relax, staying focused, and more.

The book is most effective if parents and children read it together.

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Como Ponerte Los Frenos: Guia Para Jovenes Para Comprender El Trastorno De Hiperactividad Por Deficiencia De Atencion
by Patricia O. Quinn, M.D., Judith Stern, MA, et al
Ages 8-13

The authors are a pediatrician and a special education teacher. They write directly to the children in clear, respectful language. They explain many aspects of ADHD, and they present strategies which are helpful at home, at school, and with friends. This revised edition has updated information about advances in medications and treatment programs. Use this book with The Putting on the Brakes Activity Book for Young People With ADHD and The Best of Brakes: An Activity Book For Kids with ADD

The book has discussion questions which address the issue of kind or unkind nicknames, the benefits of helping someone, etc. The puppets (Little Lemon and Lickety-split) help Wiggle-worm gain self-control, self-respect, the respect of others, and secrets for doing better in school. A turning point in the story is when the boy discovers that he can control a runaway pony. A specific diagnosis is not mentioned in the story. Wiggle-worm could be a child with ADD/ADHD or other conditions such as LD, behavioral problems, low or high blood sugar, or sleep deprivation.

See excerpts and discussion questions from Whoa Wiggle-worm.

It is refreshing to find a story where the child with a handicap is the hero and not a problem child as such. This well written story puts us in his shoes in a very understanding and kind way. Yes, he has some ups and downs but that is the nature of a good story. It can help other children see the child's abilities in a new light and identify with his difficulties. The child uses his problem of paying too close attention to minute details to find his way out of the woods in order to rescue his dad. (Although it is not mentioned in the book, it can be helpful to point out that scouts are taught to develop this skill when hiking in the woods.) Medication is given but medication is by no means presented as the only answer. Mainly, it is a story about a rescue which other children admire.

A deficit in attention sounds worse than easily distracted or overly active. This book helps take the weight from this heavy label. Practical tips are given for taking care of oneself, making friends, taking medication if needed, doing better in school including the challenge of homework, etc. Although it is a reference book for children and parents and teachers to use with the child, the illustrations, text, stories, and quizzes appeal to children.

There are important lessons that medicine cannot teach. This book helps parents make sense of different perspectives including balanced information on the medication issue, diet, etc. The author shares questionnaires, checklists, guideline lists for 504 plans, and other useful ideas.

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101 Actividades Para Entretener a Tu Hijo En Lugares Cerrados
by Carol S. Kranowitz, M.A.

Tight spaces for any young child can lead to restlessness and irritability. Time passes more quickly and pleasantly for you and your child by using these delightful, educational activities for 3-10 year old children. The author is a preschool teacher and former cub scout leader who has used many of these activities with very distractible children such as ones with ADHD. See excerpts at Amazon.

Kranowitz wrote these best selling books.

The Out-Of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping With Sensory Integration Dysfunction

The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun, Revised Edition

The Out-Of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping With Sensory Processing Disorder, Revised Edition

This easy reference is more complete than the term, checklist, implies. Parents and teachers enjoy this reader-friendly guide. Topics in the subject index include medication alternatives, strategies, etc.

Parents, teachers, and counselors and parents use this kit to better understand ADHD and to help children develop strategies. It describes diagnostic procedures and treatment options. Training exercises and checklists help children learn more effective behaviors.

Too often, girls with ADHD are not properly diagnosed. Their special needs and issues are addressed in this book along with information about the effects on school and social relations. Read the enthusiastic reviews at Amazon.

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Cómo ayudar a los niños con ADD y ADHD
by Laura J. Stevens and William G. Crook

See 18 sample pages of the English edition at Amazon.com. Read about sugar issues, nutritious snacks, the importance of more protein in the diet, and other effective ways of helping children with ADD and ADHD.