Book Review: Raising boys with ADHD (2012) by Forgan and Richey
While ADHD presentations are becoming more common in my clinic, I have been searching for an easy to understand the helpful guide for parents. Kids with ADHD- hyperactive subtype diagnoses are sometimes struggling in the school environment both academically and socially because they are simply too interested - IN EVERYTHING at the SAME TIME.
I have a bunch of beautiful parents who have worked so hard at making things work for their children that they are exhausted. To be honest, a session with a child with ADHD can be exhausting trying to keep up with the many interests they may have.
This book is really empathetic to the struggles parents will go through. And provides really practical tips for parents.
This book is helpful in that it's got a separate chapter for each period of development.
While ADHD presentations are becoming more common in my clinic, I have been searching for an easy to understand the helpful guide for parents. Kids with ADHD- hyperactive subtype diagnoses are sometimes struggling in the school environment both academically and socially because they are simply too interested - IN EVERYTHING at the SAME TIME.
I have a bunch of beautiful parents who have worked so hard at making things work for their children that they are exhausted. To be honest, a session with a child with ADHD can be exhausting trying to keep up with the many interests they may have.
This book is really empathetic to the struggles parents will go through. And provides really practical tips for parents.
This book is helpful in that it's got a separate chapter for each period of development.
My psychological perspective:
I loved how it went through the basic psychoeducation about ADHD in a conversational way with parents. A parent didn't intentionally cause ADHD, it is primarily described as a neurological disorder- causing an individual to have difficulties sitting still, paying attention and controlling behaviour. Accepting a diagnosis of ADHD is difficult for parents- the authors take time to address some myths and common questions parents may have. I particularly liked the idea of templates of writing letters to family members and teachers, letting them know the impact of the diagnoses, and what would be useful for the child.
Next, the book provides details of the available treatment options. Most parents are concerned about the use of medication. And the book goes through some of the research in the area, and how this works with behavioural therapy and working memory training. I particularly liked the detail surrounding parenting training, something I usually find to be effective with my parent clients.
Splitting the implications for children at different ages is quite helpful. Strategies useful at younger ages may not work for older ages, and visa versa. For example, fidget toys for younger children may not work as well in older teens.
The book isn't designed for an Australian audience but the strategies will be equally useful here. In Chapter 6, you will need to seek more localised information. A first step may be to talk to your child's teachers and school staff to find out about what support is available.
This is definitely one of the books I will start to recommend to some of my parent clients. I recommend using the book in conjunction with the advices from your doctor and psychologist.
Next, the book provides details of the available treatment options. Most parents are concerned about the use of medication. And the book goes through some of the research in the area, and how this works with behavioural therapy and working memory training. I particularly liked the detail surrounding parenting training, something I usually find to be effective with my parent clients.
Splitting the implications for children at different ages is quite helpful. Strategies useful at younger ages may not work for older ages, and visa versa. For example, fidget toys for younger children may not work as well in older teens.
The book isn't designed for an Australian audience but the strategies will be equally useful here. In Chapter 6, you will need to seek more localised information. A first step may be to talk to your child's teachers and school staff to find out about what support is available.
This is definitely one of the books I will start to recommend to some of my parent clients. I recommend using the book in conjunction with the advices from your doctor and psychologist.
My Christian Perspective:
From my own personal christian perspective, I believe God loves all his little children. And God loves children with problems with attention and hyperactivity. ADHD is just a label that helps professionals communicate a cluster of difficulties a child is having. If you remove the label, quite often you have a beautiful child that is simply too interested and has too much energy compared to other children.
As someone in children's ministry, I try my best to connect to each child. To praise them for their strengths and help them in their weaknesses. And this book, I believe is a powerful resource for parents.
As someone in children's ministry, I try my best to connect to each child. To praise them for their strengths and help them in their weaknesses. And this book, I believe is a powerful resource for parents.
My overall rating:
ExcellentThis is a very useful resource or a decent use of time.
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Note. I have been sent these review copies from the publishers which have not influenced my opinion in this review.
