On Their Own

 

 

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An indispensable guide to the special challenges faced by parents of learning-disabled children as they enter adulthood, by the author of Laughing Allegra, a leading activist and parent of an adult child with LD.

 

Synopsis

 

In 2003 Anne Ford (great-granddaughter of Henry Ford) published Laughing Allegra, about the struggles of raising her learning disabled daughter, and received a flood of letters from parents of children with LD, ADD, and ADHD, many expressing concerns about what to do as their children age.

 

On Their Own is an invaluable road map to ease these parents' fears and answer their questions, especially the one that haunts them daily: Will or can their child be on their own, and how?  In a candid, sympathetic style, alced with real-life stories, the book covers such topics as:

 

• Social skills and dating

• Staying healthy

• Sibling Relationships

• Interaction with employers and co-workers

• Job hunting

• Finding the right college or trade school

• Estate planning

 

Also included are a comprehensive resource guide and exclusive interviews with prominent professionals who have surmounted their learning disabilities: CEO's Sir Richard Branson, John Chambers, David Neeleman, and Charles Schwab, and former governor Gaston Caperton.

 

 

REVIEWS

 

"On Their Own answers every question you might have about unwrapping the gifts found in people with dyslexia, ADHD, and other kinds of interesting minds.  Easy to read, deftly organized, painstakingly researched, and deeply felt, this book will inform and inspire all who read it...I could not recommend this book more highly."

 

- Edward Hallowell, M.D., author of Driven to Distraction and Delivered from Distraction

 

 

"A remarkably helpful book for parents and families who are dealing with the impact of learning disabilities as their children move up and out--into college, the workplace, and a life of their own.  Anne Ford understands this journey, and makes it understandable and doable for her readers--with insight, candor, and optimism...Essential reading for every parent of a young person with LD disabilities."

 

- James Wendorf, Executive Director, National Center for Learning Disabilities

 

 

"With a deep understanding of the worries that are universal to mothers of children with disabilities, Anne Ford has managed to provide down-to-earth, practical advice on every area that affects a child's future and ability to live independently---school, work, social life, financial well-being."

 

- Sally Shaywitz, M.D., author of Overcoming Dyslexia

 

 

"The lifelong issues surrounding learning disabilities do not disappear, but shift and change as our children grow into adults.  In On Their Own, Anne Ford shares her thoughts, feelings, and experiences with an honesty that allows other parents to express and understand their own cycles of emotion, acceptance, and pride.  It is truly a family guide to supporting children and adults with learning disabilities in all phases of transition and growth."

 

- Ann Kornblet, Parent and Past President of a national LD Organization

 

 

"With the heart of a devoted parent and a wisdom born of personal experience, Anne Ford guides the reader along a path that, although not always straight, wide, and smooth, is honest and full of hope and promise.  On Their Own provides a resource for parents to acquire the tools necessary to ensure that their child with learning disabilities and ADHD will be productive, enjoy a true sense of belonging, and be fully equipped to successfully join in the 'pursuit of happiness.'"

 

- Emerson Dickman, J.D., President, International Dyslexia Association

 

 

"Having met the challenges of a child with learning disabilities head-on, Anne Ford is the perfect guide to help the rest of us see our children through the transitions they will meet throughout life.  The strength, compassion, concern, and practical advice she shares in On Their Own are an inspiration and a godsend."

 

- Henry Winkler, author of the Hank Zipzer books

 

"In On Their Own, Anne Ford taps deeply into her personal experience as a mother to offer every parent of a child with learning disabilities or conduct disorders a wise, warm, and witty roadmap that will enrich the lives of those parents and their children."

 

- Joseph A. Califano, Jr., Chairman and President, The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse

 

 

"On Their Own is a wonderful companion piece to Laughing Allegra.  Together, they represent some of the most useful insights on students with learning disabilities that I have seen.  Intended originally as a resource for parents, these books should be required reading for teachers as well."

 

- Joel Klein, Chancellor, New York City Department of Education