Abstract

Genius! is an inspiring guide to nurturing the remarkable abilities of "attention different" (AD) children diagnosed with conditions such as autism, Asperger Syndrome, AD/HD, bipolar disorder, or Tourette Syndrome (TS).

Drawing on their experiences with their own son, who has TS, George T. Lynn and Joanne Barrie Lynn offer a positive parenting philosophy and successful strategies for creating an affirmative social and emotional environment that unlocks the potential genius in 'neurologically eccentric' children. The authors emphasize the importance of identifying the signs of giftedness, providing the necessary care and mentoring, and using medication with due consideration of its benefits and limitations. They also acknowledge the need to confront the `dark side' of atypical neurology - obsessiveness, self-centredness and hyperactivity - and offer helpful advice on ensuring parents' and carers' own emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being.

This book will be an essential tool for parents and carers to help bring out the best in their AD child and help him explore his full potential in life. This revised edition also includes additional material on working with older age groups.

George T. Lynn MA is a Certified Medical Health Counselor who pioneered the use of psychotherapy for adults and children with neuropsychological issues. When his son was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome in 1991, he realized that personality can be powerfully impacted by brain chemistry independent of environment. George T. Lynn works with children and adults with ADD, Tourette Syndrome, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and AS. He is the author of Survival Strategies for Parenting Children with Bipolar Disorder, also published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Joanne Barrie Lynn is a stress management and wellness educator, natural wood sculptor and award-winning writer and poet whose work has been published in magazines, literary journals and anthologies.
The title of the book actually refers to young people with Tourette's Syndrome, Asperger's Syndrome, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and bipolar disorder. Genius! left me feeling positive about the potential of these young people who I increasingly come into contact with. I have learnt how essential it is for parents to get their children involved with other parties, specialists and the community as a whole.
News Check
A rare and precious gift to all those working with neurologically challenged children.
Dr Gabor Maté
This update of the 2004 edition quotes Einstein that "every child is born a genius." Drawing on their experiences as the parents of a son with Tourette syndrome and case studies of children with such conditions as autism, attention deficit disorder, and depression, the Lynns (who are health professionals) offer parents/caregivers tips for unlocking the potential of "neurologically eccentric" children while nurturing themselves.
Book News
This is a very good book... after reading a few pages, and some of the many case histories, I was completely absorbed. I kept writing the words 'compelling', 'intriguing' and 'fascinating' in my notes. Every chapter gives in-depth advice, based on practical experience, of how parents can help their child. This advice could also be translated into the school or therapeutic setting. This book is overwhelmingly positive, but realistic, and makes one feel that there can be a hopeful future for youngsters with these difficulties, if only we can guide their creativity. It will be valuable for any professional involved with people with these difficulties and their families, or anyone seeking to gain insight into these perplexing conditions.
NAPLIC
The Lynns' account of parenting their son with TS is augmented with information that all parents of children with atypical neurology will find compelling. From the pros and cons of medication to coping with impulsivity and rage, this revised edition also includes additional information on older children.
Tourette Syndrome Association