The Homework Squad's ADHD Guide to School Success

Starred review from July 15, 2021
Meet the Homework Squad, four very different and racially diverse students with one thing in common: their ADHD diagnosis. In this how-to book for elementary students, the squad learns that while ADHD makes them more creative and spontaneous, it also causes them to struggle in class and stay focused. Sick of struggling, the kids research and test over 100 study skills to help their ADHD and write an ultra-official guidebook to help others. Divided into 11 easy-to-follow chapters, the book covers different areas of school and learning like reading, math, note-taking, and procrastination. Within each area, the book breaks down common challenges students with ADHD face and gives readers multiple tricks for managing each challenge. The tips and tricks, appropriately, are not one size fits all, so readers are encouraged to try them all and keep track of what works. Author and neuroscientist Shifrin breaks down the importance of these learning tools in a concise format with Bishop's colorful pops of illustrations adding to its accessibility. By learning the pros and cons of their diagnosis early, readers will appreciate the importance of these learning tools and apply them to all aspects of their lives. All adults working with children should have a copy of this book, not only for their students, but to understand how they can put strategies and accommodations in place to provide an equitable environment for all. An important, affirming, and beneficial resource. (Nonfiction. 8-12)

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July 1, 2021
Grades 4-7 Four middle-school students join a fictional ADHD school club and create a handbook with more than 100 study-skill challenges to help others with ADHD study more effectively. Author Shifrin, an ADHD-certified clinical services provider, also has ADHD symptoms and is the kids' expert adviser. Chapters include a journal prompt that encourages readers to try each study trick and decide if it works for them. Study tricks cover reading and math comprehension, writing, listening, note-taking, goal-setting, studying, concentrating, test-taking, reducing forgetfulness, and ways to prevent procrastinating. Doodling or drawing a representation of the information presented by a teacher is a tactic suggested to help an ADHD student concentrate. A number of key skills are repeated in different chapters, but this emphasizes how fundamental these skills are, such as, "pace, don't race; break it down; set goals; practice; and reward yourself." A useful guide with appealing graphic-style illustrations for youth with ADHD or for anyone seeking good study techniques.

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