Dystinct Magazine – ADHD in the Classroom

Teachers and related Professionals want to help children but don’t always have the necessary knowledge or resources. I was asked to contribute an article to Dystinct Magazine. In the article, I offer specific strategies that teachers and related professionals can use to support their students with ADHD in the classroom. In addition to the strategies I outline in … Read more

Talking to Your Child About ADHD Medication

ADHD & Medication

One of the most commonly prescribed treatments for ADHD is stimulant medication, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) or amphetamines (Adderall). However, for children who have never taken ADHD medication, the prospect of starting stimulant medication can be overwhelming and confusing. Parents often ask me how they can best prepare their children to take ADHD stimulant medication … Read more

ADHD and ODD

ADHD & ODD

What is the relationship between Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)? Parents often reach out to me for support when their otherwise bright, wonderful children behave in ways they find challenging, disrespectful, and unproductive. Understandably, they want more calm and compliance – not to mention less arguing and stress!  After all … Read more

Consistent Parenting and Setting Limits

Being Consistent and Following Through As a consistent parent who sets limits and boundaries, you can help your child feel safe and confident. When a child or teen knows that you will follow through on your word they will have a sense of boundaries and will know what to expect. Does this sound like you? … Read more

Ten Steps to Support Children with ADHD

Ten steps to support children with ADHD blog 2.1.23

Here are 10 essential steps to improve the care, support, and outcomes for children with ADHD. 1. Understand the Social/Emotional impact of ADHD on learning, motivation, behavior, and the family system. 2. Create a uniform, comprehensive diagnostic procedure for assessing ADHD, including full family history, medical assessment for allergies and sensitivities, cognitive assessment, and observation … Read more

Phonics or Balanced Literacy: How Does Your School Teach Reading?

Sold a Story: How does our district teach reading?

I was an active member of my school’s PTA over 20 years ago. I became aware that my district was using a highly regarded balanced literacy/whole language reading program to teach children how to read. This same program was being used in most schools nationwide.  As parents, we were concerned that our children were not … Read more

ADHD and Dyslexia – They Often Walk Together

Meg and Greg Book duck

As many of you know, it is not unusual for people with ADHD to struggle with reading skill development. In fact, of people who are diagnosed with ADHD, 30-40% will struggle with dyslexia.  While many children seem to pick up reading with little effort, most of these children need more guidance and practice to become … Read more