AD/HD success! : solutions for boosting self-esteem the diary method for ages 7-17

I have recently read Kerin Bellak-Adams’ book titled AD/HD SUCCESS! SOLUTIONS FOR BOOSTING SELF-ESTEEM – THE DIARY METHOD. In this resource book, Kerin thoughtfully explains the benefits of the diary method for children and their care givers. The main objective is to raise self-esteem in children who are suffering from ADD or AD/HD. Karin stresses the importance of children being able to acknowledge the things that they do that are right, rather than focus on what they can’t do or have trouble doing. It is her hope that in completing the exercises contained within the booklet, parents and children will grow together into more trusting and solid relationships.

I think this is a great book that can be utilized for all children and not just those with a learning disability. The diary pages enable children to be honest in their assessments of themselves. Most of the material is very positive, asking children to identify what they did during the day that they are proud of. Only a few pages actually allow children to point out their faults. While I think that in order to correct what’s wrong, one must be aware that it’s wrong, I also think that harping on it will only cause negativity. Considering that this book is written with children in mind who already struggle, I feel that the combination is effective. Furthermore, not only do the diary pages offer suggestions to get children actively thinking, but there is also space for your child to write in their own thoughts. Another thing that I find appealing about this book is that on the back of every diary page, there is an uplifting quote.

In addition, there’s a printable page for teachers to use daily. I think that standard behavior reports are inefficient for a child with ADD or AD/HD and the one included for use here is a much better tool. Your child will also be able to answer questions based on how high (or low) their self-esteem is. The point of this is by the end of completion of the diary pages, your child will see improvements in their self-esteem after completing this page again. Children will also be able to rate their feelings periodically as well as fill in a page titled “if your kids could say what is really on their minds” which is your child’s feelings on what they need from you to help them. Additionally, there is section specifically for parents to be able to evaluate themselves and learn to improve or perhaps try something different to better support their child.  The best part of all of this is that these pages can be printed out online for repeated use.

I recommend this book to all parents and educators. As I mentioned, I don’t think your child needs to have a disability to reap the benefits from this book. The recommended ages are 7 to 17, depending on your child’s maturity level.

I really appreciate the approach that Kerin took. Many times you’ll find numerous materials with scientific data relating to ADD and AD/HD. You’ll even find published opinions on how to best help your child cope. I really think that by giving your child control by allowing them to speak candidly within these pages, is one of the best methods I’ve seen. No one knows how your child feels, better than your child. Allow them to express themselves and learn to adjust to their needs. No two children are alike and no one book with opinions is going to be the solution. Kerin ultimately understands this and has offered a hands on approach that is certain to produce results.

Imagine being at the fair; all the lights flashing and the sounds of music and voices and bells catching your attention for this game or that attraction.  Now imagine trying to sit and do homework amidst all that chaos; every person walking by holding something unusual to be investigated.  That is how I imagine living in my son’s head must be.  The frustration of trying to pay attention to instructions when rides are flashing and whirling; knowing that you should be doing something a parent asked but not remembering what it was amongst all the games and prizes.  And then realizing that you missed the directions the teacher just gave on how to do the assignment, yet again.  It sounds like being stuck in a nightmare and getting in trouble for it. Very demoralizing indeed.

If you’re the parent of an ADD or AD/HD child, you have probably faced the “to medicate or not to medicate” question.  No matter your answer to that question, it is important to be involved and to aid your child in becoming self aware. Kerin Bellak-Adams did a fantastic job of writing age relevant, and appropriately short, journaling prompts in “AD/HD Success! Solutions for Boosting Self-Esteem The Diary Method” to open the lines of communication between parent and child.  This workbook helps children ages 7-17 focus on the positive things they did that day instead of only what went wrong.  It also helps the parents realize specific areas of need the child may have, but are unable to express.

This workbook is a must have for families struggling to connect with an AD/HD child, and vice versa.

Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (01/10)


The author, Kerine Bellak-Adams has a vast range of experience in working with children who have AD/HD.  This includes being a one-on-one teacher of children with this disorder.  Children with AD/HD tend to have to deal with a variety of issues that can affect their self-esteem. Having worked with this population, she discovered the importance of making sure that their self-esteem issues were addressed so that they would be able to develop into strong, confident adults.  In doing so, they will be “less self-conscious and more secure and courageous.”

“AD/HD Success!” begins with a Home/School Daily Accountability Sheet to be filled out, by the teacher, for the parent about their child’s progress in the classroom. This gives the parent an idea of what behaviors need to be addressed while at home. This also assists the parents and the teachers with being consistent in dealing the child’s behaviors. This includes using positive reinforcement.

Section Two contains the diary pages for the child to complete.  It is broken up into age-appropriate sections, so that the child can focus on goals that are realistic for their level of development.  It encourages them to be self aware of their feelings and behaviors. Using this format also allows the child to focus on positive aspects of him or herself. 

Section Three is for the parents. It contains a parental self-evaluation tool which is meant to be copied so that parents can re-use it to check on their own progress of their parenting skills.  As I read through this, it occurred to me that it would also be useful for children of divorced parents, because the parents could use this tool to communicate to each other about their child.  In doing so, this would enable them to be more consistent with the goals for their child.  The fourth section tells about special children who have had success using this program. 

“AD/HD Success!” allows greater communication between the parent and the child. Using this method would provide great relief to both of them because it allows them to have some structure in dealing with this disorder.  It also promotes teamwork between the parent, child, teacher and school counselor.

As a college counselor for adults with disabilities, I have worked with so many young adults that I can see really would have benefited from using this book during their childhood.  I cannot imagine a greater gift than giving “AD/HD Success!” by Kerin Bellak-Adams to someone who either lives or works with children with this disorder.  Having a positive tool to help mold a child into a greater person because they will have a stronger self-esteem and be more self-aware is truly a wonderful thing.

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