Over decades of research and work with thousands of families, Russell A. Barkley has become a leading authority on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in kids and teens. He has learned what a huge difference parents can make in supporting their children's success - as well as how overwhelming it can be.
This concise guide presents 12 key parenting principles for dealing with common behavioural, emotional, and school challenges. By cultivating a mindset of acceptance and compassion; together with an understanding of the executive function deficits of ADHD; you can strengthen your loving connection with your child and help your whole family thrive.
Filled with practical suggestions and quick-reference lists and tips, this is the perfect book to read cover to cover or pick up any time you need extra support.
Introduction: Understanding ADHD
Principle 1. Use the Keys to Success
Principle 2. Remember That It’s a Disorder
Principle 3. Be a Shepherd, Not an Engineer
Principle 4. Get Your Priorities Straight
Principle 5. Mindful Parenting: Be There and Be Aware
Principle 6. Promote Your Child’s Self-Awareness and Accountability
Principle 7. Touch More, Reward More, and Talk Less
Principle 8. Make Time Real
Principle 9. Working Memory Isn’t Working: Offload It and Make It Physical!
Principle 10. Get Organized
Principle 11. Make Problem Solving Concrete
Principle 12. Be Proactive: Plan for Difficult Situations at Home and Away
Conclusion: Putting It All Together
Resources
Index
"Clinical psychologist Barkley successfully distills the most practical material from his comprehensive parenting manual, Taking Charge of ADHD, into a concise and accessible guide….Parents in Barkley’s target audience should find his guide to be a valuable and reassuring go-to."
- Publishers Weekly
"A 'must read.' Dr. Barkley's advice about managing a household with a child with ADHD has reduced stress in every aspect of our lives. He thoughtfully emphasizes the importance of self-care, which many parents underestimate. Dr. Barkley's insights gave us a much better understanding of our child, and are thoroughly life changing!"
- Jennie R., Hoboken, New Jersey
"With compassion and understanding, Dr. Barkley gives you realistic, concrete approaches for the challenging process of raising a child with ADHD. The book helps you understand how your child's brain works, why they struggle, and how to help them develop the skills to be successful in life. Highly recommended!"
- Kathleen Nadeau, PhD, Clinical Director, Chesapeake Center for ADHD, Learning and Behavioral Health, Bethesda, Maryland
"When my son got his diagnosis, I felt overwhelmed. There is so much ADHD information out there, and not all of it is helpful. I have struggled to really understand my son and how to help him—but this book has changed all that. We are finally rebuilding the connection that I thought was lost forever. Thank you, Dr. Barkley."
- Krystle B., Gladstone, Australia
"Dr. Barkley dives right into parents’ most pressing questions and offers practical, science-backed guidance. This book will be at the top of my list to recommend to parents."
- Stephen P. Becker, PhD, Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center