Flipping ADHD on Its Head: How to Turn Your Child's "Disability" into Their Greatest Strength

by Jim Poole

In Flipping ADHD on Its Head, Dr. Poole introduces and explores a holistic, integrated, and empowering approach to identifying and promoting the strengths of ADHD children by first flipping thinking about ADHD. Rather than framing ADHD as a disability, Dr. Proole encourages readers to see it as a normal, if somewhat challenging, way that a brain works. Rather than "fixing" readers, Dr. Poole wants them to focus on understanding and improving their behaviors in three areas: medical, behavioral, and educational.

​Dr. Poole shares his own stories and those of his patients to help readers go from merely living with ADHD to thriving.

Genres: Parenting, Adhd, Nonfiction, Psychology, Ebooks, Education, Mental Health

220 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 7, 2020

Reviews

[Nat · Rating 1 out of 5]

All these success stories omit whether or not these folks had well connected and well off parents. Sometimes people don't fall into jobs they enjoy but often just manage in a mediocre one. STEMLORDS PERMEATE THE Trope of being differently ABled making them great. It is easy to say your adhd made thing great for you because you had huge interest in a sought after field. Funny these people likely hero worship Tesla a guy who believed vehemently in eugenics. I guess Rick Riordan tricked people into thinking they could be great too when he just released something at the right time and made something fun to most that made him part of the the 1#. . THOSE who think adhd is great have interests in sought after fields that lead to financial security or never have to worry about money. Or have well connected moms and dads who bail them out and get them the career. This fact is often omitted from the narrative. A.D.H.D makes one preform horribly in things one does not enjoy. I have a.d.d and am at my best self when on medcine and nootropics which people think is not necesary and just needs the willpower.. If you do not have good businesses or mathematical interest or talent than adhd will very likely not be a boon for you and guess what if you do? It will probably not work out for you even then because you are reckless and never thought ahead because that was just so boring in comparison to learning about the blue footed boobies. I still am pro genetic editing. Having so many creative ideas means nothing if but if one can't follow through on any of them, what's the point? Does not matter how much creative output I have the lack of aptitude for following through is meaningless. Oh but if you are interested then you put your all into it. There is another symptom of this condition and it makes one even more emotionally immature.Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria has no benefit and many people with adhd have it. This condition is that being holding grudges is just your nature no matter how petty the slight. Being extra affectionate your love ones does not downplay the misery caused by feeling such extreme negativity at minor slights.The the fact drugs are the best treatment means show this is caused by an imbalance in the brain. The fact that pill make you more functional at necessary tasks shows this is not a boon. I know social media is constantly being super sensitive to ones opinions is nice but to this extent it is just too much. My creative "special interests" which are just all consuming obsessions have gotten me nowhere in life and are so brief that they are pointless. Get out of the echo chamber of twitter saying that is just endearing. Being flighty in life just makes you less romantically attractive. I am not better at managing at crises and so is a.d.h.d dad. IT IS NOT A SUPER POWER it is a HINDERING condition no matter what Rick Riordans books say. The blogs stating how it is great had the luck of having high i.q.s and interests in fields that allow good income. ALL the blogs are just lucky people likely with partners who love having that their loves are dependent on them. Man this whole notion of people with adhd and autism being differently ABLED(UGH) is just a coping mechanism that they eventually believed. Sorry but some these people with such conditions draw short straws in abilities and interests that does not let them have a chance of being self sufficient without medicine and even then they are strain on their families. They say adhd is great for aspiring entrepreneurs. . I find the protest against designer babies as a selfish concept powered by people believing their own lies.

[Natalie all_books_great_and_small · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.

This is an amazing book that really does make a great deal of sense.
Dr Jim seems to see and treat all of his patients with diversity and equality and I agree entirely with what he has explained and stated throughout this book.
You really must read this book, it really does alter your mind set in relation to ADHD.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disclaimer – I received a free e-book of this title from Goodreads GIveaways.

I was very excited that I won a free e-book copy of Flipping ADHD on Its Head. I really appreciated how the author presented the material and discussed the diagnosis, not as some type of deficit that an individual may have, but actually as a strength. This book helps to re-frame the thinking around ADHD, to understand it more as someone whose brain works very fast, is creative, and has a lot of energy.

This book did a great job of providing easy to understand information and suggestions for parents, who have a child that is struggling with ADHD, and particularly for a child that is struggling in school. But these suggestions are also useful for teachers as well, when they are trying to figure out how to support children that have ADHD in their classrooms. And many of the parenting suggestions in this book would apply to parenting any child, not just one that has ADHD, including showing empathy, utilizing praise, celebrating successes (no matter how small), and having compassion. While at times, I found the book to be somewhat too much of an advertisement for the author’s clinics, that does not take away from the useful strategies and lifestyle changes that were identified as things kids and parents can do to optimize their success, including things like nutrition, study habits, exercise, sleep, along with medication. Overall, I highly recommend this book for any parent of a child with ADHD, teachers, or anyone who just wants to learn more and better understand people.

[Marjorie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I entered the Goodreads contest as I knew my daughter would be interested in this book and was happy to be a winner. It's suspected that my grandson has ADHD. Here's what she thought:

I really liked his new perspective on ADHD. It turned the diagnosis around to be a positive thing, rather than negative. He views the impulsivity, distractibility, and hyperactivity associated with ADHD as creativity, curiosity, and energy instead. He gave some practical tips you can start using right away as far as discipline, parenting, and even nutrition that sets kids up for success. He gives advice on how to turn negative criticisms into positive messages that don’t crush a child’s natural spirit and energy but helps to harness it.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flipping ADHD on Its Head by Dr. Jim Poole needs to be required reading for parents, doctors, teachers, and school administrators—in short anyone who works with kids and particularly with kids who have ADHD. Readers will notice right away that Dr. Poole emphasizes focusing on the positives of ADHD instead of considering it a negative liability or disability. Specifically, Dr. Poole wants people to rethink the impulsivity, distractibility, and hyperactivity common to ADHD as creativity, curiosity, and energy. He has coined the term Fastbraiin (yes the “i” appears twice) to describe the philosophy and approach to treating ADHD used in his South Carolina clinics and now available in his book.

Dr. Poole emphasizes two main things in his book. The first is that positivity is so important in working with children with ADHD. Dr. Poole provides evidence that individuals with ADHD receive so many more negative messages which pull them down and make them feel defeated. Anyone who is in a classroom or works with kids will be familiar with the refrain of “Johnny, pay attention! Johnny, look at me! Johnny, sit on your bottom!” over and over. Dr. Poole provides information on how to rephrase items as a positive message that doesn’t squelch excitement and energy but helps to harness it. After setting up the positives of ADHD and why positivity is so important in our interactions, Dr. Poole moves on to a series of chapters on “Flipping” all aspects of life including parenting, education, exercise, rest, nutrition, and medication. He emphasizes that children with ADHD need to be taught how to study and utilize their unique strengths. Dr. Poole has pretty much distilled his “Fastbraiin” formula into the pages of the book.

Reading Dr. Poole’s recommendations, my thoughts were this makes sense and this will require a lot of time and energy to implement. Following this formula would not be an easy process but implementing even a portion will have huge dividends. My only reservation was the emphasis on using the specific supplements available through his clinic. Although geared specifically towards people with ADHD, anyone would benefit from incorporating these suggestions. So, if you or someone you love has ADHD—read this book! If that doesn’t describe you, read the book anyway to help your brain and body work even better!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received Flipping ADHD on Its Head via NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

[Susan Chung · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's nice to see a book about ADHD that talks of how the energy should be thought of as a positive instead of the constant view of it being a negative or disability. I will say that all of the examples are of children who are struggling in school - which is not always the case. My child is ADHD combined type and also in the gifted program as school, so much of what the book is focused on helping with is more abstract for my situation.

I do plan on trying a few of the suggested changes to see if it helps my child with physical energy and how to control that aspect of the issue.

Definitely worth the read if you or someone you love has ADHD.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Attention Deficit Disorder. The name itself is full of negativity - "deficit" and disorder". Dr. Jim Poole prefers the term "FastBraiin" (yes, two "i"s). He believes in emphasizing the strengths of the so-called "disorder", rather than the problems. Without ever dismissing the difficulties for both child and their family, he offers real life ways to help cope with the situation, first and foremost being a change in perception. Rather than viewing ADHD as a problem, he encourages family members to see it as a strength. These children (and adults) are not "hyper", they're energetic; not impulsive, rather creative. He suggests a whole body approach to treatment, including exercise, frequent breaks from studying, nutrition adjustments and medication. I loved his analogy for explaining to children that medication isn't a personal weakness: It allows the true self to shine, "just as running shoes help you run but don't make you a better runner.

With a 10 year old in the house who has been diagnosed with ADHD, I found the book full of encouragement and hope. It's written in accessible prose (no long-winded medical explanations here).

This is definitely a must-read for parents who are struggling with a child's ADHD diagnosis.

[Candra Hodge · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought the author presented his information in an easy to read format that used the same techniques he discussed to help an ADHD kid to learn to help anyone reading the book retail. The information. I also agree with the author's approach (FastBraiin) to ADHD. The only reason I didn't give the book 5 stars is I felt like there was a little too much self promotion involved in the book (aka the constant reference to FastBraiin centers that are owned by author).

I won this thru a goodreads.com giveaway.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being a parent is hard. Your mindset about how you think your child should behave will determine how you will deal with your child if it so happens that they get diagnosed with a "disability" such as ADHD. But is ADHD really a bad thing? Dr. Jim Poole wrote the book "Flipping ADHD on its Head" to drive it home to everyone that no, it's not. Having personal experience with ADHD, Dr. Poole knows what it is like from the perspective of the child as well as from the parent. Working with parents and professionals, he created a company named FastBraiin. FastBraiin is a holistic approach that works through the mindset of positivity and understanding how a fast brain can affect and be affected by different areas of your body.
The way that Dr. Poole writes is very professional and makes complete sense. For those who don't have a fast brain (which is in no way to say that you're not intelligent), it's harder to understand what others (with ADHD) are going through, but it is a blessing that Dr. Poole is around to see the good, potential, and necessity in people through FastBraiin. His research and presentation are thorough, and it is clear that he cares deeply for the people he helps.

[Jason Brown (Toastx2) · Rating 1 out of 5]

It was well written but followed the mantra of "you must not be trying hard enough if you are not being successful" which was not what I was expecting nor would I consider pertinent advice Everyone can bootstrap, not everyone can bend the will of the universe to accommodate differences.

[Mikelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started my quest to find more information about ADHD so that I could understand my 7 year old sons mind and with one question in mind, "How do I teach my son how to be a functioning individual without destroying all of his self confidence?" I was so lost, chronically frustrated and felt like I was failing him. I have read several books full of good medical info but this book was an answer to my prayers! I can not say enough good things about it. This book sees these people as individuals, not a diagnosis. It has helped me to reroute my thought processes and not only help him but also myself. I love how this book guides and empowers parents to turn themselves into their childs hero and truly helps these kids see their worth and gifts. I love the holistic approach that addresses all areas including home, school, behaviors, anxiety, thought process, perception, medication, motivation, and so much more. I've implemented this books approach for only 2 weeks now and have already noticed a big difference. Not just in him but also in myself. Because I have gained more understanding I find that I can be more understanding in the intense frustrating moments. Not to say that my son magically became calm and collected, he's still him and always will be but I have seen a shift in more positive thinking and motivation. We've implemented suggested techniques to burn off energy and decrease anxiety with homework, chores and every day tasks. Seeing him do better also reinforces my motivation to keep trying even when I feel like pulling out my hair. If you are struggling with an ADHD child or have ADHD yourself you need to read this book. It could literally change your life!

[Sara Underwood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good holistic picture of ADHD

I’m a parent to a 13 year old with ASD and ADHD. I’ve read a lot of books and literature on this subject.

This book does a great job explaining ADHD treatment in holistic terms and incorporating many areas - from sleep and nutrition to medication. The advice given is very general and high level, but also includes some very specific recommendations. I thought many of the patient stories were very generic, but it wasn’t an overall distraction. My only real gripe with the book was that other than praise and positive interactions (to increase self esteem), the book really just tells you what they want you to do for your child. If my child were younger it would be easier to change their diet or start a study program, but as my child is older I am having a hard time picturing telling my 13 year old he needs to run on the treadmill for 30 minutes or his new bedtime routine is this 3 step process I’ve created. There’s little to no discussion about including your child in the process of crafting a holistic approach to their ADHD, and empowering them to learn how their brains work and understanding what will work best for them. Not disagreeing with any of the advice or recommendations, just that unless you have a great deal of control over what your child does, may be difficult to implement without additional strategies on how to implement.

[Rosemary Rey · Rating 4 out of 5]

In all honesty, I read this book for myself. My focus has always been off, but I suffer from periods of hyperfocus and OCD. In self-diagnosing with ADHD after my child was diagnosed with ADHD, I studied how to be focused, productive, build a habit. Much of the FastBraiin advice espoused by Dr. Poole is the type of parenting I provided for my Spectrum/ADHD child. However, when dealing with an Oppositional Defiant and learning disabled child, a lot of the positive advice doesn't always help to encourage the child. When you have a child with no risk/reward interests, it is hard to constantly push for positivity. I've spent thousands out of pocket to get a fraction of interest in academia and motivation to attend college.
As far as the advice I will use, I've previously implemented the timed work suggested--Pomodoro Method. It has worked wonderfully for me. I haven't attempted medication, but have tried supplementation, which works well if used consistently. The use of medications section was presented well. It definitely is the parent and child's decision. It has to be taken consistently and surely with a lifestyle for supporting the ADHD person.
Thank you to the publisher, author, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Patricia Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

The audience for this book is primarily Parents, although it may be helpful to extend a copy to doctors, teachers, and relatives. I agree as a mental health professional with so much of what Jim Poole wrote and further emphasize that there is NO diagnostic test for ADD nor ADHD, that reframing and revising perception is a tremendous tool in dealing with both of these. Rather than a 'learned didactic' approach, he presents a simple , practical methodology and doesn't use psych terms like positive reinforcement, extinction, etc. He gives illustrations grounded in reality. Yet at times I am jolted by some suggestions e.g. have the teacher note behavior at 30 minute intervals... oh my, in classes with 23 to 32 children/adolescents??? He also addresses the issues of medications, proper nutrition (sugar in large amounts is BAD for all, not just ADHD) , the role of exercise, sleep in a very short book (233 pages including references). It's a very positive , pragmatic, and easily understood approach emphasizing the individual. It will be useful for many parents and I give it 4 stars . I received this Kindle copy from GoodReads for an open and honest review.

[Anneliese Grassi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good Information

My daughter has ADHD and in going through the process with her, I'm pretty sure I do too. Reading through the hows and whys of the brain function, and seeing it in action with my daughter, it makes sense. The premise Dr. Poole is trying to get across is that having ADHD isn't a bad thing, there isn't anything wrong with you, per se, it's just that your brain works differently, faster, and instead of thinking that it is a negative thing, embrace it, encourage it, and be positive about it, praising and focusing on the good.
I liked this book. I plan to use some of these practices in our family.

I received this book in a Goodreads giveaway.

[Matthew · Rating 2 out of 5]

Disclaimer - I received a free e-book of this title on Goodreads Giveaways.

This book had great potential, and begins with some good information and ideas for flipping the notion of ADD/ADHD around and seeing it as a strength, just not well adapted to modern society, the way it is set up for non-ADD/ADHD folks. I'm all on board with that and have taught that in my own psychology classes. Where this went south was that the book started to feel like I was reading an info-mercial for the author's organization and methods. I got bogged down in the repetition of "at my clinic" and "with my methods" that just seemed like selling.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Flipping ADHD on it's Head by Jim Poole, MD is a wonderful book for anyone who has a family member, student or therapy client that has been diagnosed with ADHD. It is a strength based approach which brings with it a lot of hope. Jim Poole, MD is changing the stigma of ADHD by working on changing the systems view and working, as a parent or possibly an educator or therapist, with all components of the "Fast Brained Child". It explores using positivity, structure, exercise, nutrition, motivation and intervention on multiple levels. A promising whole body approach. I highly recommend this book!

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Flipping ADHD On Its Head is an interesting approach to viewing ADHD and other neurodevelopmental issues. It takes one of the hallmarks of ADHD, Combined Type, hyperactivity, and focuses on channeling excess energy into a positive outlet. The author's approach is to use disability as a strength that builds on the diversity and individuality of each client.

The book looks at the parenting approaches as well as education in managing ADHD but also includes the role of exercise and nutrition for a whole body approach to treatment and symptom management. This is an accessible read for parents and teachers alike. It provides an encouraging look ADHD.

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am still working through this book. There is so much amazing information to absorb and learn to put into practice with my daughter! I absolutely love that Dr. Jim Poole does not classify ADHD as a disability but rather a secret strength. My daughter doesn't have a disabled brain, she has a FastBraiin (make sure you read the fun story about why there are two i's in braiin!)! I have found that the Positive Care suggestion does really work. I have gradually been adding more strategies as we go and will be referring back to "Flipping ADHD on Its Head" frequently throughout our FastBraiin journey!

[Becky Stanley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the message in this book - rather than considering ADHD a "diagnosis", it is just a different, "faster" brain. My son was diagnosed with ADHD at age 10 and his therapist was wonderful and the first one who introduced me to this concept. This book both solidified that idea as well as gave some real-life applications for ways to help this special type of brain to cope with the realities of the world and its expectations.

* I received a free ARC of this book from Goodreads in exchange for my honest review.

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.

Flipping ADHD on Its Head is enlightening and informative and will undoubtably be an important resource to many people with ADHD and parents with ADHD children. The book covers so many aspects that can have an effect (e.g. memory exercises and diet) and is both practical and constructive throughout, but also incredibly empathetic and encouraging to those struggling to find ways to manage and thrive with their ADHD. Overall, a fantastic read and resource.

[Katie Akerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very enlightening. As a parent of a child with ADHD it is nice to have some strategies and to have guidance when it comes to parenting such special children. Sometimes its nice to just read through something that allows you to be human and see that the ups and downs are normal and what a blessing your child has been even with their differences. I am very glad I was able to read this book and will probably re-read during times of struggle.

[Shereen Ramcharan-Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic, well written, informative!

I love this book and its approach to ADHD. Its packed with so much useful information that i may need to reread to commit it all to memory. The recommendation given are not far fetched and the author gives solid explanations for just about every single recommendation made. I strongly suggest reading this book if you have a loved one struggling with ADHD.

[Sarah Bader-king · Rating 1 out of 5]

This started out okay with some good advice and quickly turned into a sales pitch. The nutrition section is straight garbage and repeats the myth that sugar makes kids hyper. The source he uses is a book about diet, not a scientific study. As soon as he started talking about his clinic's brand of supplements I was OUT. Also some weird God stuff thrown in the end talking about how if God didn't make a food it's not good for us. Did God make his supplements?

[Hulda · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a parent of a child with ADHD, I found this book very useful. In fact, it may also be useful to adult individuals with ADHD diagnosis. The book is full of practical strategies to use before trying or alongside medication. It's easy to read, no nonsense, and supported by evidence. I recommend it to both parents of ADHD children and others who work with these children and their families.

[Majesta · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘The need for a new approach to diagnose and care for ADHD children and adults cannot be overstated.’

This is an in-depth analysis on parenting a child with ADHD with many suggestions for all aspects of life. From home, nutrition, school, and medical providers, this comprehensive guide by Dr Poole is a must read for parents, caregivers, or teachers of ADHD/Fastbraiin children.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very Informative.

Awesome new way to look at ADHD. Everyone should read this book to have a better understanding. It should be a requirement to read this book for Doctors treating ADHD patients and all School staff and administrators.

[Griff · Rating 3 out of 5]

First-reads giveaway--

Has some really good and evidenced based information. Read too much like an extended advertisement for me, and since they aren't in my area... Still- good information and an easy read for those who need advice and support.

[Csimplot Simplot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book!!!

[Dawn (DeDe)]

**Won as a book giveaway hosted on Goodreads sponsored by the book’s publisher or author.**