Suggested Reading on Learning, ADD, ADHD, and Learning Disorders for Parents and Educators

Driven to Distraction (Revised): Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder The Author, Edward M. Hallowell, gives a unique and positive approach to viewing ADD. He labels the types of ADD and really addresses and knocks out some of the common misconceptions associated with ADD and ADHD. He also includes tips for living with a spouse or child who has ADD. The author, himself, has ADHD, so, he is able to communicate the facets of ADD with detail. For those who have ADD themselves, parts of this book may read a bit like a personal narrative. The highlight of this book, for me, was the eye-opening way that he explained ADD with both its positives and negatives. It really changed the way I think. 

Delivered from Distraction: Getting the Most out of Life with Attention Deficit Disorder Edward M. Hallowell, author of Driven to Distraction, does it again. He, along with his co-author, John J. Ratey, both who have ADD, provide the positive side of ADD. This book goes more in-depth on the workings of the brain of someone who has ADD and someone who does not. He also gives plenty of case studies, which are helpful if you can learn something for yourself or your loved one who might have ADD. This book will change the way you view ADD and give some helpful advice for those who have ADD as well as for parents trying to parent children with ADD. One highlight of the book, for me, was that I was able to read about so many successful people who have (or had) ADD. He explains how the positives of ADD have helped these people in their successes. He also gives some advice for parents trying to explain ADD to a child who may have it, calling their brains "race car brains". 

Smart but Scattered: The Revolutionary "Executive Skills" Approach to Helping Kids Reach Their Potential Peg Dawson and Richard Guare, bring 30 years of research into this book in order to "help kids reach their potential". They diagnose ADD as a weakness in the executive functions of the brain and even break these functions down into different categories, such as, time management, working memory, and emotional control. Such an invaluable tool when trying to diagnose and help a child with some of the specific issues that come with having ADD. There are many tips and strategies that will help parents of children with and without ADD. A highlight of this book was the fact that I understand a bit better why a child with ADD may suffer from some learning disabilities and what can be done to help foster learning for children with ADD who deal with executive function weakness.