Customer Reviews

Putting on the Brakes: Yound People's Guide to Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

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I came across this book in a local children's hospital resource library. The first page describes a speeding race car with no brakes, and how it might go off the road or even crash. Page two goes on to draw a parellel between this race car, and and explains that having ADHD is a lot like being a race car with no brakes, 'You have a great engine with lots of thinking power, and a good, strong body, but no brakes'. I broke down crying right there in the middle of the library - it was like finally getting inside my child's head and knowing how he feels and why he just doesn't seem to know when to quit.

As my son and I read it together, he was also drawn in by these parallels, and fascinated by the sections that explain how the brain works, and the theories behind what causes neurobiological ADHD (as opposed to other possible causes of ADHD, like head trauma, lead exposure, etc). He is seven, and there were several words he was not familiar with, but the book explains 'synapses' and 'neurotransmitters' well, and a brief explanation from me on other vocab words was all it took for him to grasp the concepts.

A very good book for children with ADHD. It's easy to read and gets to the point, something all ADHD children need. It explains what ADHD is, that others have the same problems, and how it effects their home and school lives. It gives some wonder information about how they can help theirselves. I have read it to both my children with ADHD as well as ADHD children I work with and they all enjoy it, and can relate to it.

One of the most difficult things about parenting an ADHD child is explaining attention deficit disorder to that child. Patricia Quinn and associates have given a powerful resource to these parents - a true gift to empower them. In simple language, illustrated with eye-catching graphics, PUTTING ON THE BRAKES explains not only the nature of this disorder, but also how children and their families can learn to manage it. As an ADD Coach, I find this to be the most important resource that I can put into the hands of parents.

From a parents point of view, I really enjoyed reading your books. I felt it put me closer with my son, since I could better understand what the ADHD was about from a different point of view. It was like being inside the mind of a child with ADHD. When I react now, I think a lot more before making a rash outburst, because I know my son will be thinking "Gosh - whats the big problem?". Thank-you for letting me get closer to understanding what a child with ADHD goes through.

This book is a GEM. It can be read by the student.

Chapters are:

Part 1: Understanding AD/HD
Ch. 1: What is AD/HD all about? Ch.2: How do you know if you have AD?HD? Ch. 3: Are you the only one with AD/HD? Ch. 4: What is going on the Brain? Ch. 5: What are you Feeling?

Part 2: Gaining Control
Ch. 6: Getting support Ch. 7: Making friends Ch. 8: Understanding medication Ch. 9: Becoming more organized

I am a social work currently working with a population of children who struggle biologically, emotionally, and behaviorally. It is hard to find good child friendly literature that deal with ADHD. I'm glad I found Putting on the Brakes. It covers many things my kids wonder about and then some. Putting on teh Brakes includes chapters defining the diagnosis, discussing the science behind it, the common feelings one my have, and problem solving. My clients enjoyed the book and especially loved the analogy of ADHD to a car without brakes. (One of my clients is obsessed with cars). However, it delves too much into the science and lacks the active problem solving and skill building that the corresponding work book has. Over all, Putting on the Brakes answers questions and opens the door for great communication between you and your kids, who may struggle with their diagnosis.

I work with kids every day with ADHD and this book is a great addition to use along with the workbook that goes along with this book. This and the activity book are a great tool for practice!!!

Written very well for both young people and adults. Offers realistic solutions for everyday problems that those with ADHD face.