Several weeks ago when we took Little J to see a Clinical Social Worker one of the things she suggested we do was read a copy of Delivered From Distraction, subtitled "getting the most out of life with Attention Deficit Disorder." She suggested it so that we could get some ways to deal positively with Little J's behaviors; she also suggested it so that we could find out more about alternative/complimentary therapies for ADD.

I thought the book was great. It mostly deals with adult ADD, but for me it served as an education as to what life might be like for Little J if we don't take action early on. It's precisely the things the authors describe - difficulty in school, in relationships, with peers - that we are trying to cut off at the pass for him. I highly recommend this book for anyone who has ADD or is a parent to a child with ADD (or who suspects their child has ADD). Tons of good information inside.

The authors, Edward Hallowell and John Ratey, explain that the one thing that helps people with ADD the most is the proper medication. However, medication is only the first step. It can help calm the person's brain, but it can't teach the brain new tricks. That has to be done through behavioral modification and training. They also highly recommend exercise as a way for people with ADD to cope with their excess energy. Not only does exercise help with energy levels but it increases endorphins and gives the person with ADD a mode of focus. We have already seen that with Little J. Our very best days with him have been days where we've been able to go for a walk early in the morning or maybe spend a couple of hours swimming. It really helps him to have physical exercise (and it's not like the kid is a couch potato - he's go go go all the time - but the sustained nature of the exercise really seems to do him a lot of good).

Go to Part 2.