PUTTING ON THE BRAKES:Young People’s Guide to Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity DisorderandTHE BEST OF “BRAKES”: An Activity Book for Kids with ADDby Patricia O. Quinn, M.D. and Judith M. Stern, M.A.
Putting on the Brakes is a guide book for children ages 8-13 who are coping with AD/HD. Although it was first published 10 years ago, it is still a favorite of children and parents judging from conference book sales. This is probably because the book is written in a simple, easy-to-read style. Along with basic information that explains the disorder in a way children can understand, it also gives solutions to real-life problems encountered by children with AD/HD. Included in the chapters are explanations of what is going on in the brain, how to make and keep friends, understanding medication, becoming more organized, and how to cope at school. Putting on the Brakes was revised and expanded in 2001, so that recent advances in the treatment and understanding of AD/HD are incorporated. Of all the books written about AD/HD for this age group, I consider Putting on the Brakes one of the best and highly recommend it. The Best of “Brakes” is an excellent companion to the Putting on the Brakes book reviewed above. It is an activity book compiled from Brakes newsletters which were originally published from 1994 to 1998 by Magination Press. But in addition to the almost 100 pages of activities which include word searches, puzzles, mazes, and games, each chapter includes short articles chock full of tips and suggestions for dealing with feelings and difficult school, family, and friend situations. These matters are also addressed throughout the book in letters written by children seeking advice for everyday AD/HD challenges and answered by the editors with practical advice and clear examples. The fun activities in this book provide a great springboard for discussion of AD/HD issues which many children may have difficulty bringing up on their own. I don’t know of any other book quite like The Best of “Brakes”. It is fun, support, and information all rolled into one. Book Review by Donna Northway, Materials Coordinator, ADDA-SR For the complete article, become a member and receive our newsletter.
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