On Sept. 7, New York City’s elementary school students return to their classrooms, but for many parents, such as those with children who have been diagnosed as having Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), they dread the new academic year. These parents anticipate unpleasant interactions with teachers and struggles with their children over homework.
For these beleaguered parents, the new guide from Thomas Armstrong, Ph.D., “The Myth of the ADHD Child: 101 Ways to Improve Your Child’s Behavior and Attention Span Without Drugs, Labels, or Coercion” (TarcherPerigee) is mandatory reading.
Even if your child doesn’t have a disability, Armstrong’s manual is written from the perspective of a child advocate who’s passionate about helping kids truly flower. Much of his advice can improve the academic performance of all children, including adolescents. For instance, he advises that parents ensure their child’s diet is nutrient-rich (and devoid of allergens and food additives) and includes a list of ideal breakfast choices.
Rather than dwelling on a child’s “defects, deficits, and dysfunctions,” Armstrong offers 101 tips on how parents and teachers can bring out the best in students — nurturing their “assets, possibilities, and gifts.”
His early chapters trace the history of ADHD in our society and the lucrative industries that have grown up around its diagnosis and treatment.
His new book includes a questionnaire, so parents can pinpoint those strategies that will help their unique child.
“The Myth of the ADHD Child: 101 Ways to Improve Your Child’s Behavior and Attention Span Without Drugs, Labels, or Coercion” paperback book by Thomas Armstrong, $17, www.amazo
