15 Resources and Tools to Help Challenged Kids Build Self-Esteem

Most parents and teachers know that a child's self-esteem level plays a significant part in learning and life success---both in and outside the classroom. When a child has reading or learning challenges, it is even more important to ensure the child develops a healthy level of self-esteem to see him through "the tough times" that can present themselves all too often.

For this article, we wanted to provide our readers with tools and resources to help parents and teachers with this sometimes-daunting task of helping a child or student with additional needs to develop a healthy level of confidence and self-esteem. Below, you may discover just the right resource, tool or combination of both to assist you in helping a child who needs just a bit more self-confidence in the classroom or simply in his day-to-day activities outside the classroom. We hope you will find that these resources will enhance the quality of life for a child or student you care about or serve.

Tools and Resources to Help Challenged Kids Build Self-Esteem

How to Boost Your Child's Self-Esteem: ADHD Parenting Advice---by Larry Silver, M.D. & ADDitude
Many kids with ADHD and learning disabilities also struggle with poor self-esteem. Here's how parents can help.
http://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/1465.html

The Importance of Self-Esteem for Kids with Learning and Attention Issues---by Bob Cunningham & Understood
Children develop self-esteem by experiencing repeated successes. Children with learning and attention issues are at risk for low self-esteem. You can help your child develop positive self-esteem with some of the tips included in this article.
https://www.understood.org/en/friends-feelings/empowering-your-child/self-esteem/the-importance-of-self-esteem-for-kids-with-learning-and-attention-issues

Building Self-Esteem: The Emotional Needs of the Dyslexic Child---by Pauline Croxall & READyslexics
Good information to help both parents and teachers understand the emotional needs of a child/student with dyslexia. Provides a self-esteem inventory or checklist to assess a child’s needs as well.
http://readyslexics.com/web/about-dyslexia/building-self-esteem

Self-identity and self-esteem for teenagers with autism spectrum disorder---by Raising Children Network
During adolescence, your child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is forming an independent identity. This is a normal and important part of becoming an adult, and you can do a lot to support your child and build his self-esteem along the way.
http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/autism_spectrum_disorder_self_esteem_teenagers.html

12 Booster Activities for Kids with Down Syndrome---by Vicki Vila & Parents Magazine
These learning activities will help your child with cognitive and educational development as he grows.
http://www.parents.com/health/down-syndrome/booster-activities-for-kids-with-down-syndrome/

7 Ways to Build Confidence in Kids with Speech Disorders---by Chris O & speech buddies
Speech disorders and delays can not only effect how children are able to communicate, but also their confidence and self-esteem. When this happens, their behavior, learning, and relationships can be affected to various degrees. In fact, some researchers propose that kids with speech delays can be more at risk for things such as bullying because they can seem more reclusive. Here are a few ways, however, that parents, teachers, and caregivers can help build confidence and ease frustrations.
https://www.speechbuddy.com/blog/speech-disorders/7-ways-to-build-confidence-in-kids-with-speech-disorders/

Building Self-Esteem in Children with Special Needs---from the Special Education Guide
Self-esteem is always a concern for students with special needs. In a mainstreamed classroom, it’s not difficult to see students divide into groups. If you as a teacher are aware of this, you can take steps to ensure that the entire class is cohesive. For instance, there may not be a real peer group for the only student in class with visual impairment; therefore, you need to make certain that the entire class is a peer group. This is can be accomplished with help from this article.
http://www.specialeducationguide.com/pre-k-12/behavior-and-classroom-management/building-self-esteem-in-children-with-special-needs/

How to build your child’s self-esteem---by Randi Chapnik Myers & Today’s Parent
Simply praising your child can actually do more harm than good. Here’s a comprehensive guide to building self-esteem in children.
http://www.todaysparent.com/family/parenting/how-to-build-your-childs-self-esteem/

How to Build Healthy Self-Esteem in Children---by Sasha Emmons & Scholastic’s Parent & Child
In trying to boost kids’ self-esteem, we may be tearing it down. Learn how to build a healthy sense of confidence in children.
http://www.scholastic.com/parents/resources/article/praise-discipline/how-to-build-healthy-self-esteem-children

10 Ways to Help Your Child Build Self-Esteem---by Ivan Dimitrijevic & Lifehack
If you want to help your child build self-esteem, try out some of these strategies.
http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/10-ways-help-your-child-build-self-esteem.html

7 Ways to Bring Out the Best in Special-Needs Students---by Thomas Armstrong & Education Week TEACHER
Here are seven ways that you can activate the strengths of your students with special needs, whether you run a full-inclusion classroom, a self-contained special ed classroom, or anything in between.
http://www.edweek.org/tm/articles/2013/04/08/fp_armstrong.html

Helping Your Child Build Self-Esteem---from family lives
Building self-esteem in children is an ongoing process and starts early. You can help to build your child’s self-esteem by letting them know how well they have done and how proud you are of them. The tips in this article can help.
http://www.familylives.org.uk/advice/primary/health-and-development/helping-your-child-build-self-esteem/

Tools to Help Build Self-Esteem in Kids with Reading & Learning Challenges

Dyslexia Toolkit---by Dr. Linda Silbert
Get your Dyslexia Toolkit here in one simple step (requires online registration). Extensive research has shown that children learn best when they are engaged and having fun. That’s why every activity in this guide is designed for children to have fun while learning to read. This is especially important for the child with dyslexia! In this FREE downloadable book from Dr. Silbert, you’ll find activities to use again and again to help improve reading skills at all levels.
http://drlindasblog.com/dyslexia-toolkit/ and http://drlindasblog.com/ty-dyslexia/

Reading Focus Cards Low-Tech & Digital Desktop Tools (Patents 7,565,759 & 8,360,779)---from Brennan Innovators, LLC
Inexpensive yet innovative tools to help improve focus, tracking, comprehension and retention when reading either physical or digital media (for Macs & PCs). This comprehensive reading tools system can make all the difference in reading success for children and adults with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, stroke, brain injury and other conditions that often impact reading ability.
Physical Tools: http://www.focusandread.com/products
Digital Desktop App: http://www.focusandread.com/page/488513590

FREE Printable: CHILDREN'S SELF-ESTEEM---by Kristin Zolten, M.A. & Nicholas Long, Ph.D., Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (Artwork by Scott Snider)
Self-esteem can be defined as how people feel about themselves. Children's levels of self-esteem are evident in their behavior and attitudes. If children feel good about themselves, these good feelings will be reflected in how they relate to friends, teachers, siblings, parents, and others. This article provides some useful facts and tips to assist adults in helping to build a child’s self-esteem.
http://www.parenting-ed.org/handouts/self%20esteem.pdf

For information on customizable low-tech & digital reading tools for challenged readers with ADHD, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info and support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Images courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

ADHD Resources and Aids for Children, Teens and Adults-2016

As you may be aware, more than 6 percent of children in the U.S. are currently being treated for ADHD. However, did you know that approximately 5 percent of adults are also living with this condition?

These statistics served as a call-to-action to the team at the Public Health Corps in Walnut, CA. As a result, this same organization put together a list of valuable resources and aids for people managing ADHD each and every day. We want to thank Ms. Patricia Sarmiento of the group for submitting this excellent list to us so that we could share it with our readers for their benefit.

Resources & Aids to Help ADHD---for Children, Teens & Adults

School Success for ADHD/LD Kids: Accommodations, Homework, Focus
http://www.additudemag.com/adhd-school-success.html

Creating the Optimal Environment for a Kid with ADHD
http://www.homeadvisor.com/r/creating-the-optimal-living-environment-for-a-child-with-adhd/#.VtHLnPkrLIU

ADHD Students Learn Differently: Try these ADD Classroom Strategies
http://childdevelopmentinfo.com/learning/learning_disabilities/teacher/

Attention Deficit Disorder Handbook
http://ucc.vt.edu/academic_support/attention_deficit_disorder_handbook.html

College Assistance Guide for People with ADHD
http://www.usnewsuniversitydirectory.com/articles/college-assistance-for-ADHD-students_15111.aspx#.VtHL2vkrLIU

Beat ADHD Anxiety and Stress
http://www.everydayhealth.com/add-adhd/beat-adhd-anxiety-and-stress.aspx

ADHD and Addiction - What is the Risk?
https://www.discoveryplace.info/adhd-and-addiction-what-is-the-risk

7 Ways to Reduce Stress: Calming Techniques for Adults with ADHD
http://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/3995.html

The Calming Effects of Swimming for People with ADHD
http://www.intheswim.com/eGuides/swimming-for-people-with-ADHD

ADHD and Technology: Helping Our Children Reclaim Their Focus and Attention
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-larry-rosen/adhd-and-technology-helpi_b_6096168.html

Low-tech & High-tech ADHD Focusing Tools to Help Students & Adults of ALL Ages
http://www.focusandread.com/products

How Dogs Can Help People with ADD & ADHD
https://www.rover.com/blog/dogs-help-people-add-adhd/

Source: Ms. Patricia Sarmiento---http://publichealthcorps.org

For information on customizable low-tech & digital reading tools for challenged readers with ADHD, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info and support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Images courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

Increase Reading Rate and Fluency with Engaging Literacy Games!

Many educators know that when focus, tracking and fluency improve for readers, very likely their reading rate increases, too. In addition to good comprehension and retention, these skills are essential for overall reading success.

At the same time, it is often not a good idea to conduct timed reading sessions for challenged readers who struggle with decoding, let alone increasing fluency and reading rate. Such timed reading can be demoralizing for these struggling readers, regardless of their age or grade levels. Self-esteem and any confidence these readers do have decreases significantly as a result. So, why not eliminate the "timed sessions" and substitute a much more approachable option, activities that challenged or reluctant readers might actually embrace and in which they could become truly engaged? We're talking about replacing them with reading games to build fluency and reading rates for your child or students.

In this article, we have collected a basket of links to literacy game resources to help improve these specific reading skills. We hope you will discover at least one or two of them that could provide the catalyst you need to help a challenged reader you know who could use a bit of help with her reading rate and/or fluency. If you know of other literacy games or links that should be added to the list, please let us know by adding a brief not about them in the comment box to follow this article. That way, we will all win---especially the challenged readers out there!

Enjoyable Games & Activities to Build Reading Rate & Fluency

FREE & Fun Reading Games---from Mrs. Bainbridge's Class Website
The online games via this link help practice skills necessary for reading success (phonemic awareness, alphabetic principle, vocabulary, fluency and comprehension). Enjoy and happy gaming!
http://bainbridgeclass.com/readinggames.htm

FREE Fluency Activities---from Readquarium and Diana Dell, Ed.S.
Discover treasure through reading while building fluency and other reading skills!
http://www.gamequarium.com/readquarium/booksonline.html

READING FLUENCY ACTIVITIES---FREE PRINTABLE DOWNLOADS & RESOURCES
The reading fluency activities on this page are essential for children with dyslexia and struggling readers. These activities can be taught in the classroom (small and large group setting) and can also be implemented at home! Keep checking this page for more free printable reading fluency activities and other ways to increase reading fluency!
http://www.readingresource.net/readingfluencyactivities.html

Improving Fluency in Young Readers
Teachers need to select and facilitate the best methods of fluency instruction for their children and their classrooms. The activities listed on this web page promote the 4 components are needed for good fluency instruction: modeling fluent reading, using guided oral reading instruction, providing opportunities to practice and perform, implementing word study activities to build accuracy.
http://www.busyteacherscafe.com/literacy/fluency.html

FREE Online Reading Games---from education.com
These reading games for kids make learning to read even more fun! Play these FREE reading games online to sample the comprehensive learning games program, Brainzy. Get the fun started with these alphabet games, phonics games, sight word games, fluency, reading comprehension games and more!
http://www.education.com/games/reading/

Five Quick Games Build Reading Skills (Pre-K thru Grade 1)---from education world
These 5 small-group or whole-class offline games will engage students as they build a variety of reading skills. games use selections of reading text to build students' skills in syllabication, sentence structure, sequencing, word recognition, skimming, and visual recognition.
http://www.educationworld.com/a_lesson/03/lp301-01.shtml

FLUENCY---from Reading A-Z
Motivate students and help them build oral fluency, accuracy, and expression with engaging passages and scripts to read aloud. Includes FREE, downloadable or projectible practice passages (Reading levels F-Z) and reader's theater scripts (K-5). Fluent readers read more quickly and smoothly, allowing them to focus on comprehension. Fluent readers gain more meaning from the text they read. Because fluency leads to comprehension, fluent readers enjoy reading more than students who devote all their energy to sounding out words.
https://www.readinga-z.com/fluency/index.html

Reading Apps, Games and Websites
You'll discover here some of the best apps, games, and websites for building kids' reading skills. Together, these resources cover reading skills from letter recognition, phonics, and sight words to vocabulary building and comprehension. So whether you're on the go or on the couch, start here, and make learning to read fun and engaging. For All ages---Preschoolers (2-4), Little Kids (5-7), Big Kids (8-9), Tweens (10-12) and Teens (13+)
https://www.commonsensemedia.org/lists/reading-apps-games-and-websites

For information on customizable low-tech & digital reading tools to improve focus, fluency & reading rate, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info and support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Images courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com and
lovetoknow Entertainment at http://boardgames.lovetoknow.com/image/50556~Game_pieces.jpg

BEST Dyslexia Tools, Resources & Support for Parents & Teachers-2016

Happy New Year 2016 to ALL our good readers! We're hoping that this coming year will be your BEST one yet in terms of helping the challenged readers you know and serve.

Although we provide dyslexia tools and resources to our many customers and clients throughout each year, we do make it a point to emphasize awareness of and share even more resources for dyslexia with everyone each time we begin a new year. With the incidence of dyslexia currently estimated to be 1 in 5 individuals, it is essential that parents, teachers and other adults become aware of these statistics so that they can better address the needs of the many individuals with this specific learning challenge each day of every year.

You may already know dyslexia to be a brain-based, learning difference that specifically impairs a person's ability to read. Individuals challenged with dyslexia typically read at levels significantly lower than expected even with normal or average intelligence. Although the symptoms and experiences of this learning difference can vary from one person to another, the common characteristics of dyslexia are:

-Difficulty with phonological processing (phonics understanding, phonemic awareness or manipulation of sounds)
-Challenges with spelling and/or
-Difficulty with rapid visual-verbal responding

In persons with adult-onset or acquired dyslexia, it usually occurs as a result of brain injury or in association with dementia. However, dyslexia may have been present in childhood or adolescence but was never identified until adulthood. Children who experience the symptoms listed above here should be considered candidates for dyslexia testing and evaluation by an appropriate medical professional (a behavioral or developmental optometrist, a developmental pediatrician, or other certified dyslexia specialist). Dyslexia can be inherited in some families, and recent studies have identified a number of genes that may predispose an individual to develop dyslexia.

To start off this New Year 2016, we wanted to provide our readers with current and helpful resources to assist parents, teachers and other adults as they work with individuals challenged with dyslexia. We hope you will find these resources of benefit to you or someone you know.

Dyslexia Resources & Support Organizations

The Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity
The Yale Center for Dyslexia & Creativity serves as a nexus for research on dyslexia, and is as well a leading source of advocacy and information to better the lives of people with dyslexia.
http://dyslexia.yale.edu/

DyslexiaHelp---University of Michigan
This website offers much information about dyslexia together with research, success stories and other related resources for parents, teachers and students.
http://dyslexiahelp.umich.edu/

The International Dyslexia Association
This well-known organization provides general information and support for persons with dyslexia. The following link presents an online Dyslexia Self-Assessment for Adults
http://www.interdys.org/AreYouDyslexic_AdultTest.htm
FAQ page: http://www.interdys.org/FAQ.htm

Decoding Dyslexia
Decoding Dyslexia is a network of parent-led grassroots movements across the country concerned with the limited access to educational interventions for dyslexia within the public education system. We aim to raise dyslexia awareness, empower families to support their children and inform policy-makers on best practices to identify, remediate and support students with dyslexia. For more information and to learn if your state has an affiliate branch of this organization (currently all 50 states do), please visit the link provided here.
http://www.decodingdyslexia.net/

National Center for Learning Disabilities (Section on Dyslexia)
The National Center for Learning Disabilities improves the lives of all people with learning difficulties and disabilities by empowering parents, enabling young adults, transforming schools, and creating policy and advocacy impact. The link to follow here provides general information, dyslexia symptoms/warning signs categorized by grade level and resources to help parents and teachers.
http://ncld.org/types-learning-disabilities/dyslexia

Wrightslaw Special Education Law and Advocacy
Parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys come to Wrightslaw for accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities.
http://wrightslaw.com/

Dyslegia: A Legislative Information Site
This website is maintained by Davis Dyslexia Association International to report and track pending legislation in the United States. This blog-based web site is a resource for sharing information about legislative initiatives, as a forum for discussion and exploration of policy issues, and as a communications tool to encourage citizen participation and involvement with their representatives in government.
http://www.dyslegia.com/

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
This website provides basic information about dyslexia as well as supportive resource links.
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/dyslexia/dyslexia.htm

College of Optometrists in Vision Development (COVD)
Organization of developmental (behavioral) optometrists, medical professionals who can test and evaluate as well as diagnose and treat dyslexia and other vision-related reading challenges. A "locator tool" for such diagnosticians in your area is available on the website.
http://www.covd.org

Homeschooling With Dyslexia!
This excellent website and blog written by Marianne Sunderland provides resources for parents and homeschooling families of children who do not learn by traditional methods. Includes a ‘Quick Start’ Guide and FREE digital e-course about teaching children with dyslexia.
http://homeschoolingwithdyslexia.com/start-here/

Dyslexia Resources & Support
Pinterest board with 650+ dyslexia resources---ALL in 1 place!
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/dyslexia-resources-support/

Helpful Dyslexia Tools & Apps

OpenDyslexic Font (FREE)
Created by Abelardo Gonzalez
OpenDyslexic is a new, open-sourced font created to increase readability for readers with dyslexia. The typeface includes regular, bold, italic, and bold-italic styles. It is being updated continually and improved based on input from dyslexic users. There are no restrictions on using OpenDyslexic outside of attribution. FREE download via this link.
http://opendyslexic.org/

The Reading Focus Cards---Low-tech Reading Tools for Books & Documents
(Patent 7,565,759)
From Brennan Innovators, LLC
Sensory-appealing and customizable reading tools and solutions for challenged readers of all ages. Made in the U.S.A.
www.FocusandRead.com/products

APP---Overlays! (for OS X 10.8 or later---Price: $6.99)
Created by Abbie Gonzalez
Use to help with reading or sometimes to help following large tables and lists of data. Battle the wall of text, eyestrain and distractions with this on screen overlay to help you keep your place!
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/overlays!/id868499627?mt=12

APP---Reading Focus Cards (for Macs & Windows PCs---Price: $5.99)
From Brennan Innovators, LLC
This desktop app is the digital version of the physical Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759), solutions for struggling readers. This app for Windows PCs and Macs FLOATS on top AN STAYS on top of underlying applications, providing practical READING SUPPORT for children and adults with ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other conditions that can affect reading success. It promotes more FOCUS, better TRACKING and COMPREHENSION when reading digital media, whether online or offline (webpages, PDF files, Word docs, Excel spreadsheets & more.) The application can be moved on the screen over text by the fingers, mouse or arrow keys as needed. In addition, the Reading Focus Card app (Patent 8,360,779) is compatible with and supports touch-screen technology.
1. Macs (desktops & notebooks): https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/read-and-focus/id920617853?mt=12
2. Windows PCs (desktops & laptops): https://gumroad.com/l/ReadingFocusCards

Best Books for Dyslexia

Overcoming Dyslexia: A New and Complete Science-Based Program for Reading Problems at Any Level
by Sally Shaywitz, M.D.; Vintage (2005)

Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide
by Pam Wright and Pete Wright; Harbor House Law Press (2006)

The Dyslexic Advantage: Unlocking the Hidden Potential of the Dyslexic Brain
by Brock and Fernette Eide M.D.; Plume (2012)

Dyslexic AND UN-Stoppable - How Dyslexia Helps Us Create The Life Of Our Dreams And How YOU Can Do It Too
by Lucie M. Curtiss, R.N. and Douglas C. Curtiss, M.D., FAAP

For information on customizable low-tech & digital reading tools for all kinds of challenged readers, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info and support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Images courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

10 Helpful Steps for Test-Taking Success

Whether it's a unit test, mid-term or final exam that's looming, we know you'll experience much more success if you plan for it. Here are ten of the most helpful steps to improve your test-taking success (presented in a bulleted format for your convenience and ease of use):

1. Think Positively AND Prepare for Success!
Consider the coming test or examination as an opportunity, a chance to demonstrate what you have learned and what your now know. The test may be a challenging opportunity, but you CAN do this.

2. Create a Plan for Success
a. The week before the test, ask your teacher about the following:
1.) Will the material for the test be from the textbook only? From class notes? Other?
2.) If a math test is planned, will it be possible to use a calculator?
b. If you've been absent, ask friends about material you may have missed.
c. Make a list of the most important topics to be covered.
1.) Use this as a guide when you study.
2.) Highlight the topics you know will require extra time for you to study.
3.) Allow for extra time to study those most challenging topics.

3. What to Do the Night Before the Test
a. Remember that cramming for a test or exam really doesn't work, no matter what other students may say.
b. If you've followed a study plan, the night before the test should be a time when you do a quick review and get to bed early.
c. Your brain and body require sleep to function well, so avoid staying up late or “pulling an all-nighter.”

4. What to Do the Morning of the Test
a. You will actually think better and more productively when you have a full stomach, so plan to eat a nutritious breakfast the morning of the test.
b. Arrange to arrive at school early.
c. Make sure you have everything you'll need for the test:
1.) Scratch paper
2.) Extra pencils and/or pens
3.) Erasers
4.) A calculator, ruler, reading tools, apps and other aids or accommodations (if permitted).
d. Do a ten-minute power study or quick review of important points right before the test, so your brain will be “in gear” from the beginning of the testing session.

5. What to Do at Test Time
a. Quickly scan through the test before starting.
b. Read all the test instructions CAREFULLY!
c. Understand how the test is scored:
1.) Do you lose points for incorrect answers?
2.) Or is it better to make guesses when you're not sure of the answer?
d. Make sure you are marking answers correctly.

6. Manage Your Time Well
a. Answer the easy questions first. This can be a time saver AND build your self-confidence.
b. Allow for more time near the end of the testing period for focusing on the most challenging part of the test.

7. What to Do with a “Mental Block”
Tricky problems or test questions can knock you off balance. Don't get worried or frustrated. Here are some practical things to do when you “get stuck” during the test:
a. Reread the question to make sure you understand it, and then try to solve it the best way you know how.
b. If you're still stuck, circle it and move on. You can come back to it later.
c. What if you have no idea about the answer? Review your options and make the best guess you can, but only if you don't lose points for wrong answers.

8. What to Do with Multiple-Choice Questions
The process of elimination can help you choose the correct answer in a multiple-choice question.
a. Start by crossing off the answers that couldn't be right.
b. Then spend your time focusing on the POSSIBLE correct choices before selecting your answer.

9. Neatness Does Count!
Look over your test to ensure that your work is neat and answers are clearly written. If your 4s look like 9s, that could be a real problem on a math test. Be sure that your writing is legible and that you erase your mistakes. For machine-scored tests, fill in the spaces carefully and in the appropriate places.

10. Am I Finished Yet?
When you complete the last item on the test, remember that you should then:
a. First, check the clock and go back to review your answers.
b. Make sure that you didn't make any careless mistakes (like putting the right answer in the wrong place or skipping a question).
c. Then, spend the remaining minutes going over the most difficult problems before you turn in your test.

Follow these practical test tips, and you'll know you did your best! Then celebrate your success!

Sources & Related Resources:

1. Top Ten Test-Taking Tips for Students---from TeacherVision
https://www.teachervision.com/study-skills/teaching-methods/6390.html

2. Top 10 Study Tips---by Maximillian Hart, Test Taking Tips
http://test-taking-tips.net/top-ten-study-tips/

3. Top 10 Test-Taking Strategies---from CollegeTips.com
http://www.collegetips.com/college-classes/test-taking-strategies.php

4. Reading Focus Cards Desktop App (Patent 8,360,779)
CUSTOMIZABLE app (for Macs & PCs) that helps challenged readers and learners of ALL ages & abilities (especially helpful for persons with ADHD, dyslexia, low vision, autism & other issues that can affect reading success). This desktop app promotes more FOCUSED reading and studying whether ONLINE or OFFLINE.
Macs: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/read-and-focus/id920617853?mt=12
Windows PCs: https://gumroad.com/l/ReadingFocusCards

5. The Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759)
Sensory-appealing and customizable reading tools and solutions that help challenged readers of all ages with printed media (physical books, worksheets & documents.)
www.FocusandRead.com/products

For information on customizable low-tech & digital reading tools for all kinds of challenged readers, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info and support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Images courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

A Collection of ALL Kinds of Reading Resources, ALL in 1 Place!

We know that parents and teachers have only so much time to research, locate and review materials and resources to help the challenged readers they care about and serve.

Wouldn't it be a great thing if a SIZABLE collection of ALL kinds of reading resources could be available and easily accessible in ONE place? We certainly think so! That is why this week, which is the midpoint of the first academic quarter for the school year, we have decided to provide you with a list of CATEGORIZED reading resources here to help you meet the needs of the struggling readers (and other readers) you know, courtesy of our Pinterest boards!

These resources are some of the most popular and effective reading resources we know for children and teens who experience various issues when they attempt to read. We hope you will take just a few minutes now to quickly review the categoried board links AND "Follow" those relevant to you and your child(ren) or students.

If your time is particularly limited this week, please feel free to simply "Follow" our entire Pinterest page at https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000, as it includes MANY other boards with educational resources for special needs, parenting, teaching, homeschooling and much more. We hope you'll re-visit our page often because we pin relevant resources there daily with a TOTAL of 137 boards at this writing!

Happy Reading----AND Pinning, everyone!

A Collection of ALL Kinds of Reading Resources---ALL in 1 Place!

Help for Struggling Readers---Resources, Links, and Activities for Challenged Readers
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/help-for-struggling-readers/

Good Books for Girls
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/good-books-for-girls/

Book Lists for Boys
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/book-lists-for-boys/

Rockin' Reading Resources
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/rockin-reading-resources/

Reading Resources GALORE!
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/reading-resources-galore/

Literacy
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/literacy/

Dr. Seuss We LOVE!
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/dr-seuss-we-love/

Decoding Resources
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/decoding-resources/

Dyslexia Resources & Support
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/dyslexia-resources-support/

Dyslexia Tools
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/dyslexia-tools/

Low Vision Resources & Support
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/low-vision-resources-support/

Reading Tools for Kids---Tools and Strategies to Help Children Who Struggle to READ
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/reading-tools-for-kids/

Reading Technology Resources
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/reading-technology-resources/

Reading Apps to Help Kids
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/reading-apps-to-help-kids/

Vocabulary Fun
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/vocabulary-fun/

All About e-Books
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/all-about-e-books/

All About Books
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/all-about-books/

Summer Reading Resources
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/summer-reading-resources/

GREAT Places to READ!
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/great-places-to-read/

For information on customizable low-tech & digital reading tools for all kinds of challenged readers, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info and support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Images courtesy of: Clker.com: www.clker.com/clipart-book-2.html and
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

5 Tips to Help Your Child Tame Those ADHD Symptoms

This will be the first week back to school for many children across the country after the long summer break. Many students will be excited to start a new year. Others will be more than a little reluctant, and a significant number of children will be very anxious about returning to a new classroom at a higher grade level. This can be especially true for children challenged with focusing and attention problems or ADHD. At the same time and not surprisingly, the parents of these students may also be experiencing the same feelings, dreading the morning routine with a child who struggles to follow directions, complete tasks on time and prepare for the classroom, each and every day of the school year.

What can parents do to help better prepare their children or teens with these ADHD symptoms AND in so doing, experience a better academic year? We have made a list here of 5 tips to help. None of them are difficult. However, each of the tips WILL require consistency and the needed time to follow-through on each of them.

1. Incorporate Plenty of Exercise into Your Child's Day Every Day! Always allow for a good amount of daily exercise. It need not be strenuous, but consistent exercise that benefits all muscle groups and provides good aerobic benefits will go a long way in helping your child to get and stay focused in the classroom this year. About 60 minutes of walking, running, climbing or other safe activity is recommended each day by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These minutes can be broken down into smaller units of 10 to 20 minutes at a time to accomplish the daily goal.

2. Allow for Scheduled Breaks to Help Your Child Decompress. This can be especially important during stressful or homework times. A pause of 5 to 10 minutes from homework can make all the difference in both decreasing stress and improving attention levels for your child or teen. If needed, time the length of these breaks, too, so that they do not become "lunch hours" or "extended playtimes." For some children, a quick run to the backyard fence could also provide just the right amount of energy release to enable more focused reading or study upon their return to work.

3. Stimulate & Improve Focus with Worthy Learning Activities. Seek out meaningful learning activities and resources appropriate for your child's intellectual level. The internet offers a wide variety of these resources and so often without any cost to you. We have provided a few links to follow this article that you might find helpful for this purpose. Take a look at all of the resources before choosing the best one(s) for your individual child's learning style or interests. Be aware that maintaining some structure during school break and vacation times may go a long way in keeping your child or students in the "learning groove," especially when ADHD is a challenge. Choosing "worthy" activities for these more relaxed times will be helpful.

4. Make Use of Valuable Tools to Keep Your Child On-Task at Home & at School. There are helpful reading aids and other tools to help improve focus and attention both in and outside the classroom. These aids are available online and in some school supply stores. Some tools may assist your child or student with work that involves physical books and worksheets while others will be helpful with online reading and study. We have provided a few resources for you in the list at the ndo fo this article. Getting and maintaining a student's attention and focus is a hurdle that can be scaled with the right tools for each individual's learning style and needs.

5. Check in with Your Child at Least Once a Day. Have a brief but meaningful chat with your child each day. It may be your own personal challenge, but please turn off the omni-present phone and really look at your child without your own distractions getting in the way. Just 5 minutes where you give your child your undivided attention can be priceless and serve as an excellent example for the child to learn how to properly discuss or interact with another person. You will most likely notice your child relax and become less stressed or "hyper" after these few minutes together. Those precious moments together may actually affect you in the same positive way!

Resources to Help Tame Those ADHD Symptoms

How much physical activity do children need?
From The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Daily exercise for children is essential. Other related information is provided here.
http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/children/index.htm

Better Behavior at School: Help Teachers Manage Your Child's Distractions and Impulsivity
From the Editors of ADDitude Magazine
Share these winning strategies with your child's teachers to keep your student focused and on his best behavior in the classroom.
http://www.additudemag.com/slideshow/17/slide-1.html

How Your ADHD Teen Can Thrive in High School
By Jill Murphy & Cynthia Enfinger
11 Tips for High School Success: High school demands better study skills, time-management tools, and organization skills in order to succeed. Use these tips to master those high school classes.
http://www.additudemag.com/resource-center/adhd-in-high-school.html

GREAT Reading & Learning Resources for Your Family's Spring Break (or Anytime!)
This article includes alternatives to the traditional "Spring Break" or other vacation time. In addition, you will discover many resources to keep kid's brains engaged even when away from the classroom for either a short or extended period.
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2015/03/great-reading-learning-resources-for.html

Keep Kids Far from the "Summer Slide": Stressless Summer
From Kidlutions.com
You can help your child avoid the “summer slide” with just a little information and some careful planning. The tips and resources included with this article have been provided to help you do just that. Choosing to follow through on all or just a handful of the ideas here will help keep your child far from the “summer slide” this year!
http://kidlutions.blogspot.com/2013/07/keep-kids-far-from-summer-slide.html

Helpful Focus & Tracking Resources for Challenged Readers
The right strategies and resources for students with attention and focusing issues when reading can go a long way in helping them manage specific symptoms or even improve their reading experiences. This article addresses these needs with some resources specific to focus and tracking. The information presented here can go a long way to help positively affect the level of reading success for many struggling readers.
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2014/05/helpful-focus-tracking-resources-for.html

Helpful Focusing Tools for Books, Technology & More!
This article presents information about a group of low-tech and sensory-appealing literacy tools that help improve focus, tracking, fluency and comprehension (for readers of all ages---children, teens & adults). These tools can be inexpensive solutions for readers with ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other issues that sometimes affect reading success.
http://www.focusandread.com/blog/post/3649064

APP: Overlays! (for OS X 10.8 or later: Price: $6.99)
Created by Abbie Gonzalez
Use to help with reading or sometimes to help following large tables and lists of data. Battle the wall of text, eyestrain and distractions with this on screen overlay to help you keep your place!
- Keep your place in huge walls of text, tables and lists.
- Pick the color, height and transparency that helps you read better.
- Use a lightly colored overlay or a completely solid line to help you keep focused. Pick what works for you!
- Easily access preferences from the menu bar icon.
- Works in full screen applications, and even over virtual machines.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/overlays!/id868499627?mt=12

APP: Reading Focus Cards (for Macs & Windows PCs: Price: $5.99)
(Patent 8,360,779)
From Brennan Innovators, LLC
This DESKTOP app is the digital version of the physical Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759), solutions for struggling readers. This app for Windows PCs and Macs provides practical READING SUPPORT for children and adults with ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other conditions that can affect reading success. It promotes more FOCUSED online reading of almost ALL digital media (webpages, PDF files, Word docs, Excel spreadsheets & more.) In addition, the Reading Focus Card app is compatible with and supports touch-screen technology. The application can be moved on the screen over text by the fingers, mouse or arrow keys as needed.
1. For Windows PCs: Visit Gumroad at https://gumroad.com/l/ReadingFocusCards
2. For Macs: Visit the Mac App Store and search for "Read and Focus" or go directly to
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/read-and-focus/id920617853?mt=12
More information: http://www.teacherswithapps.com/research-based-literacy-tool-evolves-helpful-app-struggling-readers/

For information on customizable low-tech & digital reading tools for all kinds of challenged readers, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info and support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com