Review by Booklist Review
Parents of kids with learning disorders will feel reassured and inspired by psychologist Sorscher, a mother of three. Children flourish when they feel confident and supported, whereas they feel terrible about themselves when teachers, moms, and dads blame them for their failings, she says. Compliment kids every day on some achievement, whether it's doing their homework or coming up with a good joke. Don't compare them to others. That's true whether they are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit disorder, or nonverbal learning disorder (as Sorscher was). Celebrate their superpowers. For example, people with ASD pay superb attention to detail and show an unflagging commitment to their passions. Early diagnosis can prevent problems later. Teens with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, for example, can be at risk for substance and alcohol use because of their impulsivity. They're also more prone to getting addicted to videogames and other instant-gratification computer activities. With easy-to-understand chapters on testing, support, accommodations, treatment, and college, Sorscher makes it easier for parents to believe they can pave the way for their kids to "live incredible lives."
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Library Journal Review
Clinical psychologist Sorscher's (William Alanson White Inst.; Assessment and Intervention with Children, Adolescents, and Adults with Neurocognitive Challenges) book indicates that many neurodiverse children are cruelly labeled as "bad," "stupid," or "lazy" and blame themselves for their diagnosis. Sorscher, who has extensive experience diagnosing and counseling people with ADD, autism spectrum disorders, and learning disorders, dispels those myths and perceptions. She taps into her expertise to show parents how to support their child at home, reach success in the classroom, and add appropriate accommodations and modifications, all designed to help children thrive. She asserts that many parents are confused by SCAN-C auditory processing, Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration, the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, and other test results. But this book decodes that for readers. This title also covers common accommodations such as increased time on tests, extra guidance from teachers, movement breaks during instruction, audiobooks for children who have difficulty reading, speech-to-text programs, and more. VERDICT This book is chock-full of research and advice, though some readers may want more perspectives and examples from parents who have neurodivergent children.
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