While behavioral therapy and parenting methods can help kids overcome their ADHD-induced habits, books are still a powerful resource for tips on how to get things done, stay focused, and find motivation. Here are some children’s books that will inspire your child understand and overcome the limitations of ADHD without the use of medication. All of them can be found at your local bookstore or through Amazon.
The Survival Guide for Kids with ADHD by John F. Taylor Ph.D
Ages: 4-8
This colorful guide will catch the attention of your child with its bright red cover, large font, and cartoon-style illustrations. The writing is kid-friendly, short, and clear and organized into sections for easy reading and understanding. Although it does contain a section about medications, the bulk of the book covers topics like succeeding in school, making friends, and getting along at home. One of the most helpful suggestions involves how to do a homework routine and use timers and colored folders, but a parent’s involvement may be needed to implement this ideas. Read and reread this book to your child for best results.
Learning to Slow Down and Pay Attention by Kathleen Nadeau
Ages: 6-11
A book written from a kid’s point of view, Learning to Slow Down and Pay Attention is a handy tool to help parents guide children through their ADHD journey. The third edition of this book includes lots of fun activities and easy-to-read text, as well as tips for coping with schoolwork, friendships, family, and getting organized. Funny cartoons help send the message across and reinforce the offered tips.
See You Later, Procrastinator! By Pamela Espeland
Ages: 9 -12
Even children who don’t have ADHD have problems getting things done. It’s easy for their chores and homework to take a backseat to watching television, playing video games, surfing the Internet, or hanging out with friends. See You Later, Procrastinator uses full color cartoons and child-friendly humor to teach kids how to get motivated and stay motivated enough to get things done. The start of the book lists 12 reasons why kids procrastinate and 12 ways to overcome them, then moves on to tips on avoiding setbacks, 20 ways to kiss procrastination goodbye, and fun rewards to keep them on track. A must read for kids, even if they don’t have ADHD.
Attention, Girls! A Guide to Learn about ADHD by Patricia Quinn
Ages: 9 -12
Girls with ADHD struggle with gender-specific issues, and this guide to ADHD for girls addresses these differences. The author created fictional characters with ADHD to help the reader make friends, talk to adults about the condition, and help them overcome problem situations. The book doesn’t have to be read from start to finish; the author encourages girls to begin with the sections that cover their concerns.
Putting on the Brakes: Activity Book for Kids With ADD or ADHD by Patricia Quinn and Judith Stern
Ages: 9 – 12
This best-selling workbook is now on its second edition. Putting on the Breaks contains pages and pages of activities that teach kids how to manage inattention, maintain control of their daily activities, and set priorities. Younger children may need the help of a parent to put these new skills into practical use.