Blog Posts

Can I help my child develop grit and perseverance?

I recently gave a presentation at the Learning Disabilities Association (LDA) conference on impact of mindset (our belief about our ability to improve) on learning. During the questioning at the end of the presentation, one teacher asked, “I work with High School students. Is it too late to help them learn to deal with frustration … Read more

Can ADHD Coaching Help My Child?

The world of ADHD Coaching is becoming more and more recognized as a powerful and effective support to help students with ADHD achieve their goals. Coaching is a collaborative, action-oriented partnership designed to help people make the changes they want. ADHD Coaching is Life Coaching specifically designed to address the unique concerns of individuals who … Read more

I Don’t Have Any Homework – I Just Have To Study

Have you ever heard these words from your child?  What exactly does this mean?  For many students, without a specific plan, item to do, and accountability for the process, procrastination sets in and learning opportunities become diminished. What is the solution? Help students work backward from the Test date and have specific Tasks planned out … Read more

Pay back or Push back? Addressing Oppositional Behavior

I recently participated in a discussion about behavior regarding school engagement on a list serve for professionals who teach and support children with ADHD. The educational specialist had written that she was working with a first grader whose school wants her to work with someone on “her organizational skills.” Someone who can help “reduce problem … Read more

“Happy Birthday, Dear! You Have ADHD!” (Published in ADDitude Magazine Fall 2015)

I recently heard from an ADDitude Magazine reader looking for help: “My daughter just turned 15 and, as a not so happy birthday present, she was diagnosed with inattentive ADHD. She did well in elementary school, but is struggling in high school. She seems depressed and has grown quiet. She now takes ADHD medication, but … Read more

Not Ready for College? Guest Post by Maureen Holohan

Transitioning to college right after high school is not for everyone. Taking off a year or more can be a very helpful tool for many young people. Some students need to regroup after the rigors of high school, especially those with learning differences. The year off should be a planned, structured blueprint outlining what the … Read more

“8 Keys to Parenting Children with ADHD” Selected As Winner of 2015 USA Best Book Awards

I am pleased to announce that my recently published book “8 Keys to Parenting Children with ADHD” was selected as the Award Winner of the USA Best Book Awards in both the “Parenting/Family” and “Education/Academic” categories.   More About The Book http://www.ptscoaching.com/8-keys-to-parenting-children-with-adhd/ The book may be purchased here: http://www.amazon.com/8-Keys-Parenting-Children-ADHD/dp/039371067X    

How Fast is Smart?

If you ask most children how they know who the smartest kids in the class are, they will often respond that they are the ones who raise their hands the quickest and turn in their tests the fastest. Assumption: Speed equals Intelligence. Executive Function and Why It’s Important Before I address the implications of this … Read more

3 Quick Tips for Learning

Taking the Stress Out of Learning with Three Quick Tips Stressed brains don’t learn well. Make sure you set yourself up for success Learn relaxing breathing techniques. Even 1 minute can make a difference. Find a “go to” exercise. Something short, brisk, easy to do just to break the tension in your body. Set yourself … Read more

Trouble Focusing? Try Fidgeting with Purpose

I recently contributed an article to Noodle, an educational website for students, parents, and professionals.  Here is an excerpt.  See the link below to read the complete article. Consistent excessive movement is typically associated with a child who has ADHD-Hyperactive Type. And while many parents and educators consider this behavior to be a negative symptom … Read more