All Roads Lead to Atlanta

This week’s guest blogger is Rick Lavoie, MA, MEd.

The child with attention deficit disorder faces challenges in all aspects of life. This puzzling condition serves to complicate and compromise the child’s social, academic, and emotional development.

Teachers and professionals must be aware of the pervasive nature of ADHD and be willing to make accommodations and modifications in all activities and areas. ADHD is not simply a “school problem.” It impacts the child’s ability to function at home and in the community as well.

There is currently a virtual explosion of ADHD research being conducted throughout the world. Much of this research is poorly done and biased and is not valuable to parents and teachers who serve these students. However, there is also some research that can make significant, positive change in our schools and households.

So where does a concerned parent or professional get current information on the care and education of students with ADHD? All roads lead to Atlanta.

I am looking so forward to delivering a keynote address at the annual CHADD conference in Atlanta on Friday, November 12, 2010. This conference is widely recognized as one of the most effective and valuable meetings in our field. It provides an opportunity for you to meet with colleagues from all over the world and learn from some of the most accomplished speakers in education. Personally, I find that I learn as much as I teach at CHADD conferences.

See you there.

With every good wish,
Rick Lavoie


Rick Lavoie, MA, MEd, served as an administrator of residential programs for children with special needs for 30 years. He holds three degrees in special education and two honorary doctorates, and has served as a visiting lecturer at numerous universities. His numerous national television appearances include the Today Show, CBS Morning Show, Good Morning America, ABC Evening News, and Walt Disney Presents.