Insighful Information, Articles and Books
Kids In the Syndrome Mix of ADHD, LD, Asperger’s Tourette’s, Bipolar, and More! By Martin L. Kutscher, M.D.
This was one of Dr. Nielsen's first purchased books as a new school psychologist many years ago. Some terminology is now outdated, but the content itself is remarkably helpful. Parents will feel validated in their quest for others to understand their unique child. Educators and professionals can only gain in their mission to better serve our youngsters.
Don't Sweat the Small Stuff and It's All Small Stuff: Simple Ways to Keep the Little Things from Taking Over Your Life By Richard Carlson, Ph.D.
This is one of Dr. Nielsen's personal favorites. Dr. Carlson sheds new light and perspectives on the daily events that can cause stress. A brief, reader-friendly and jargon-free guide to simply looking at things differently so we feel better.
The Co-Parenting Survival Guide: Letting Go of Conflict after a Difficult Divorce By Elizabeth S. Thayer, Ph.D. & Jeffrey Zimmerman, Ph.D.
This piece compiles and highlights key points in maintaining a child’s adjustment during a difficult family transition. From new relationships, discipline, and making plans to managing anger and conflict, this book is clearly and succinctly written. It reminds us all that children need their parents to proceed mindfully and behave as adults.
Dibs: In Search of Self By Virginia Axline, PhD
This book was Dr. Nielsen's favorite while in graduate school. It details play therapy sessions with a young boy who comes from an affluent and highly educated family. Despite signs that he is gifted, his parents and teachers believe that he has an emotional or cognitive disorder. Through time and great care and experience, a child is able to adjust to challenges in childhood.
The Social Skills Picture Book: Teaching Play, Emotion, and Communication to Children With Autism by Jed Baker PhD.
Dr. Nielsen used this book frequently in the school system with the children she supported. Many children are visual creatures and do not always know what is expected of them. This picture book of expected and unexpected behaviors helps to concretize some very abstract ideas and adult expectations.
Yardsticks: Children in the Classroom Ages 4-14 (3rd Edition) By Chip Wood
Dr. Nielsen appreciates this resource for its clear, parent-friendly structure. She notes that it helps us to understand what is developmentally reasonable to anticipate from our kids.