Recommended Resources for Families

Visual Timer

Makes time concrete and reduces transition meltdowns dramatically. Search “visual timer” on Amazon for affordable options — you don't need the expensive name-brand version. Any visual countdown timer does the job beautifully.

A Physical Calendar on the Fridge

One of the simplest and most effective tools for ADHD kids. A large, visible monthly calendar in a central spot makes time tangible, reduces anxiety about what's coming, and helps the whole family stay on the same page. Old school — and it works.

Allie All Along

Sarah Lynne Reul

A beautiful picture book following Allie through a big meltdown — validating for children to see another child struggle and be helped through it. The illustrations are extraordinary, using color and a removable “anger monster” costume to show emotional regulation in action. A perfect read-aloud for working through big feelings together.

What Should Danny Do?

Adir Levy

A choose-your-own-adventure style series that puts the power of choice directly in your child's hands. I love using this series to teach kids that they can change the direction of their day at any point — even when it's hard. It builds the concept of self-control in a way that feels exciting and empowering rather than preachy. A favorite in my sessions.

Ish

Peter H. Reynolds

A beautiful story about a child who gives up drawing after his brother laughs at his work — until he discovers that art doesn't have to be perfect to be meaningful. I love this book for kids who get stuck, shut down, or give up when something isn't exactly right. A gentle, visual reminder that done and expressive beats perfect and paralyzed every time.

The Girl Who Never Makes Mistakes

Mark Pett & Gary Rubinstein

Beatrice is terrified of making mistakes — until one very public slip changes everything. I use this in sessions to open up conversations about what mistakes really mean and why they're not something to fear. One honest note: the ending takes it a bit far — Beatrice starts making intentional silly choices and calling them mistakes, which isn't quite right since real mistakes aren't on purpose. But the heart of the message is powerful and I use it as a launching point for deeper conversation.

What If Everybody Did That? / Said That? / Thought That?

Ellen Javernick & Colleen AF Venable

A brilliant series for teaching perspective and the social impact of our choices. Each book takes one small behavior and asks “what if everybody did that?” The ripple effect becomes immediately clear and concrete. I love using these to help kids who struggle to see beyond their own immediate impulse understand how their actions affect the people around them. Makes an abstract concept genuinely tangible for young minds.

Manny in a Pickle

Jewish-themed picture book

Manny — a grown man in a suit — completely loses it when things don't go his way. Watching an adult tantrum on the floor is both hilarious and eye-opening for kids. The humor removes the shame while the mirror effect is powerful — children see their own rigid behavior reflected back without feeling criticized. I love using this in sessions to open up conversations about what our body looks like when we're stuck.

Me First Manny

Jewish-themed picture book

Manny absolutely must be first — and in his desperation jumps into the pool fully dressed, suit, iPhone and all. The absurdity is the point. Kids instantly recognize the “me first” feeling and the book gives them language and distance to talk about it. A wonderful tool for children who struggle with waiting, sharing, or letting others go first.

Ziggawat Asks, Why No?

From the beloved Jewish children's book series

A peek-and-see cut-out book with the most clever design — Ziggawat sees only part of the picture and cries “WHY NO?!” But when the page turns and the full picture is revealed, everything makes sense. I use this book to teach perspective taking — the understanding that what we see isn't always the whole story. Whether it's a rule that seems unfair, a friend who seems mean, or a situation that feels confusing, this book opens up beautiful conversations about the fact that other people may be seeing something we're not. Funny, surprising, and genuinely thought provoking.

Fish in a Tree

Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Ally is smart, creative, and funny — but she's been hiding a secret for years. Every time she lands at a new school she creates clever distractions to hide the fact that she can't read. When a new teacher finally sees the bright kid underneath the behavior, everything begins to shift. Based on the powerful quote — “Everybody is smart in different ways. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its life believing it is stupid” — this book is a moving, accessible story for kids who have ever felt like they don't fit, can't keep up, or are misunderstood. I recommend it for children who are struggling in school and need to see themselves reflected as capable, worthy, and seen.

How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk

Adele Faber & Elaine Mazlish

A classic for good reason — and one I recommend constantly. What I love most is how practical and actionable it is. Every concept comes with comics that visually show the skill in action, making it easy to absorb even for parents who struggle to get through a traditional parenting book. There's also concrete homework at the end of each chapter so you walk away with something real to try. Comes in two versions — one for younger children (ages 2–7) and one for older kids.

Good Inside

Dr. Becky Kennedy

What sets this book apart is the balance. Dr. Becky Kennedy doesn't ask you to choose between being a warm, respectful parent and being an authority figure — she shows you how to be both at the same time. For parents who feel caught between “I don't want to damage my child” and “I still need to be the parent,” this book is a game changer. Her core belief — that kids are good inside and behavior is a signal, not a character flaw — aligns with everything I believe about the children I work with.

TicTic — Task & Schedule Manager

A powerful scheduling app with detailed options including checklists per task, reminders, and recurring routines. What makes it especially valuable for ADHD families — one account can be shared across multiple phones, so parents and spouses can collaborate on reminders and appointments together. A game changer for keeping everyone on the same page.

Happy Child Parenting App

One of the best parenting tools out there. Delivers bite-sized, research-backed insights for parents daily — digestible, practical, and grounded in real science. Perfect for parents who want to keep learning without committing to a full book.

“Why Do We Lose Control of Our Emotions?”

A simple, beautifully animated whiteboard video based on Dr. Dan Siegel's Hand Model of the Brain — made specifically for children and parents. One of the clearest explanations of why kids “flip their lid” during a meltdown. Perfect to watch together with your child.

Dr. Dan Siegel's Hand Model of the Brain

The original explanation from Dr. Siegel himself — slightly more detailed and aimed at parents and professionals. Watch this one for yourself to deeply understand what's happening in your child's brain during a meltdown.