Library of Helpful Books

Overcoming Dyslexia: A New and Complete Science-Based Program for Reading Problems at Any Level
by Sally Shaywitz, MD

A MUST BUY FOR PARENTS. Yale neuroscientist Shaywitz demystifies the roots of dyslexia (a neurologically based reading difficulty affecting one in five children) and offers parents and educators hope that children with reading problems can be helped. Shaywitz delves deeply into how dyslexia occurs, explaining that magnetic resonance imaging has helped scientists trace the disability to a weakness in the language system at the phonological level. According to Shaywitz, science now has clear evidence that the brain of the dyslexic reader is activated in a different area than that of the non-impaired reader. Interestingly, the dyslexic reader may be strong in reasoning, problem solving and critical thinking, but invariably lacks phonemic awareness-the ability to break words apart into distinct sounds-which is critical in order to crack the reading code. The good news, Shaywitz claims, is that with the use of effective training programs, the brain can be rewired and dyslexic children can learn to read. She walks parents through ways to help children develop phonemic awareness, become fluent readers, and exercise the area of the brain essential for reading success. Early diagnosis and effective treatment, the author claims, are of utmost importance, although even older readers can learn to read skillfully with proper intervention.

Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide
by Peter W. D. Wright, Pamela Darr Wright

In this comprehensive, easy-to-read book, you will learn your child’s disability and educational needs, how to create a simple method for organizing your child’s file and devising a master plan for your child’s special education. You will understand parent-school conflict, how to create paper trails and effective letter writing. This book includes dozens of worksheets, forms and sample letters that you can tailor to your needs. Whether you are new to special education or an experienced advocate this book will provide a clear roadmap to effective advocacy for your child. You will use this book again and again.

The Complete IEP Guide: How to Advocate for Your Special Ed Child
by Lawrence M. Siegel

This book will become the "bible" for parents of Special Education children. The book is written with the layperson in mind in a clear and concise manner. The whole IEP process is spelled out in easy to follow steps that gently glide one through the process. The letters and forms, which can be copied or added to, are invaluable, and take a giant step toward helping parents become effective advocates for their children. A copy of the law IDEA 1997 is included, giving full disclosure to the general public. The information included in this book can save a parent thousands of dollars in attorney's fees. If you buy just one book about Special Education this year, this should be the one!

The Alphabet War: A Story About Dyslexia
by Diane Burton Robb, Gail Piazza (Illustrator)

This book, about a child overcoming her difficulty in letter recognition and reading, is about more than dyslexia. The story is also about believing in yourself and succeeding. Lends understanding of dyslexia to not only children but to people of all ages. The pastel illustrations adequately convey Adam's emotions. Although the text often tells rather than shows the boy's plight, the subject matter is handled with respect for her feelings at every stage of the process, and does not oversimplify or sugarcoat the difficulties of dyslexia. Equally realistic is the depiction of the long, slow process that leads to the child's eventual success as a reader. Adam's experience will inspire and encourage many youngsters who find themselves in similar predicaments.

Taking Charge of ADHD: The Complete, Authoritative Guide For Parents
by Russell A. Barkley

Becoming a classic. Well-written, very readable, comprehensive guide to ADHD for parents by one of the leading experts in the field.

ADD and Adolescents: Strategies for Success from CHADD
by CHADD. (Can only be ordered from CHADD's distributor Caset by calling 800-545-5583, or from the ADD WareHouse Catalog at 800-233-9273)

A collection of articles and documents by the top experts and leaders in the field of Attention Deficit Disorders covering diagnosis, treatment, education, social skills, family issues, advocacy, beyond high school and other challenges.

Maybe You Know My Kid: A Parent's Guide To Identifying, Understanding, and Helping Your Child With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
by Mary Cahill Fowler

A classic. Written for parents by a parent of a child with ADHD.

Educators Manual: Attention Deficit Disorders. An In-Depth Look From an Educational Perspective
by CHADD (Can be ordered from CHADD's distributor, Caset by calling 800-545-5583, or from the ADD WareHouse Catalog at 800-233-9273)

A most important document about what schools should know and do. It is very important for parents to know what the school knows so they can safeguard their child's education. This manual is therefore an essential document to own.

When You Worry About The Child You Love: Emotional and Learning Problems in Children
by Edward M. Hallowell

This is a warm, informative and moving book by one of the best and most knowledgeable communicators of childhood problems. Hallowell manages to guide parents through the most significant causes of problems in childhood in a sensitive, caring way. Highly recommended.

Answers To Distraction
by Edward M. Hallowell & John J. Ratey, J.

A comprehensive guide to ADHD, written in an easy to read question/answer format. The sequel to their classic Driven To Distraction.

Attention Deficit Disorder and Learning Disabilities: Realities, Myths and Controversial Treatments
by Barbara Ingersoll & Sam Goldstein

An important book by two of the best in the field. Accurate, factual information about ADD, LD and their treatments.

Fathering the ADHD Child: A Book for Fathers, Mothers, and Professionals
by Edward H. Jacobs

Fathers and mothers experience parenting differently, and with the ADHD child, the differences in the way parents regard discipline, behavior, and the nature of ADHD itself, interferes with working effectively as a team. This book explores how fathers and mothers can use their differences creatively to parent their ADHD child more effectively.

Survival Strategies For Parenting Your ADD Child
by George T. Lynn

Offers concise and practical information for parents on dealing with oppositional behavior, dangerous and destructive behavior, depression, obsessions and compulsions, rage, school-related stress, etc.

Sparky’s Excellent Misadventures: My ADD Journal by Me, Sparky
by Marti Ford & Phyllis Carpenter

Short book written for kids age 5-12 about a boy who has ADHD and learns about it and how to deal with it. Told in a first person diary format, Sparky's week-in-the-life tale is optimistic and fun, and includes many valuable insights and ideas that can help kids with ADD and ADHD gain more control of their lives. The authors have extensive personal and professional experience in the field. Sparky will appeal to both children and adults and offer comfort, humor, and solid advice.

The Other Me: Poetic Thoughts On ADD For Adults, Kids, and Parents
by Wilma R. Fellman

Touching, funny, insightful poems about living with ADD.

Learning To Slow Down And Pay Attention
by Kathleen Nadeau & Ellen B. Dixon

For ages 6-12, provides age-appropriate information and practical suggestions. Fun, friendly workbook with original cartoons and funny graphics to give kids important clues for behavior...positive, upbeat and straightforward.

Making The Grade: An Adolescent's Struggle With A.D.D.
by Roberta N. Parker

A classic, on managing ADHD behaviors for ages 9-12. This is a heartwarming story of seventh grader, Jim Jerome, who finds his problems with self-control and inattention threaten his chances of success scholastically and athletically. Jim learns about ADD and ways to help himself. There is a section of the book, which provides answers to commonly asked questions about ADD which offers vital information to young readers. Symptoms, causes, treatments, and outcomes of ADD are discussed frankly and positively. Helpful ideas for developing good study and homework habits, improving social skills, and reducing impulsive thinking are presented. Also available in Spanish under the title "Como Pasar de Grado".