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Meeting the Needs of Talented ADHD Students

McCluskey, Ken. University of Winnipeg, Canada

Abstract. As the term, itself, indicates, ADHD is typically viewed as a disorder and, certainly, hyperactive and inattentive children present some interesting challenges at home, at school, and in the community. This session highlights many of the problems and acknowledges that the prognosis for ADHD is, sometimes, far from benign; however, an attempt is made to put a more positive spin on things by recasting reality and pointing to the creative strengths that frequently go hand in hand with the condition. To illustrate, with proper support, might not stubborn behavior in childhood grow into determination in adulthood? Might not inattentive daydreaming turn into creative invention, overactivity into productive energy, and off-the-wall behavior into outside-the-box thinking? The overall intent is to offer a humane, flexible approach to help parents, teachers, and other caregivers turn negatives into positives and identify and nurture the talents of an often-misunderstood population.

Biography

Ken McCluskey serves as Dean and Professor of Education at the University of Winnipeg. During the twenty-five years prior to taking this position, he was a special educator, psychologist, and senior administrator in the public school system. A recipient of his institution’s teaching, research, and community service awards, he is author or co-author of many professional articles and books on talent development, ADHD, and at-risk children and youth.