Topic: The Gift of ADD

In simple terms, everyone fits into two categories: the creative risk taker, and the logical perseverer. Creative risk takers include people who learn differently, such as the ADD population. Everyone else fits it the category of logical perseverers, which is considered the "normal" population.

Although few people fit entirely in one group or the other at all times, an individual typically exhibits more qualities of one than the other. However, new studies and research show that our creative risk takers - those with learning differences - in fact have far superior creative intelligence, and simply by acknowledging their preferential learning mode - instead of forcing an outdated learning system on them, unlocks their incredible potential. Their contributions to the world have - and will continue - to benefit all of us.

From this jumping off point, this site will present helpful information and perspective for understanding learning differences in children.

Guest: MaryEllen Jirak

MaryEllen Jirak is an author and accomplished educator with more than 20 years of classroom work and educational research. Her personal experience as an ADD creative (and mother of an ADD creative), coupled with professional experience as an educator, gives her a multifaceted perspective.

Her innovative teaching methods, including breakthrough interventions with children with learning differences are recognized as models for school districts.

MaryEllen spent seven years researching and writing her book, The Gift of A.D.D.: Shattering Labels and Changing Expectations for Parents and Teachers. Her research has taken her through more than 800 books and 1000's of articles, journals, tapes, and seminars.

She is currently a presenter, parent and educational consultant, and children's learning advocate. She offers many services that will assist both educators and parents to apply new eyes and techniques to support children with learning differences, especially A.D.D.