A new Jewish support group for parents of children with Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder is being launched for the first time in Manchester. The group, JADDS (Jewish Attention Deficit Disorder Support) is being set up by psychologist and parent, Dr Sandi Mann. "There are support groups in the North West, and national ones, but there is nothing that specifically meets the needs of Jewish parents. Jewish children have needs that cannot be catered for by mainstream groups - for example, connected with Jewish schools, accessing culturally appropriate resources, coping with Jewish Studies, attendance at synagogue or coping on Jewish holidays and holy days."

There is also the issue, says Dr Mann, of parental attitudes which may differ from that in the mainstream community; "For more orthodox parents, having a child diagnosed with ADHD can be quite a tragedy as it can effect marriage prospects not just for that child, but for all their siblings. There is a lot of denial and fear amongst the orthodox about the condition".

Dr Mann, who lectures at the University of Central Lancashire and author of parenting books such as Surviving the Terrible Teens and Dealing With Difficult Eaters, has three children, one of whom is diagnosed with ADD. She says, "A child with ADD or ADHD can be a challenge but their energy, zest for life, sense of fun, creativity and affection can also be a source of great joy to their family. I want JADDS to celebrate ADD as well as provide support and advice."
Does your child have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder? If you would like to be involved please complete our contact form at the contact us page

Please do remember that as this is a new group we are still collating much of our content for our website, such as links to other groups & resources and the 'Does my child have ADD/ADHD' sign & symptoms guide, plus much more.