For the Ears
Auditory processing, audiobooks, and music.
Both of my boys have been diagnosed with ADHD, and they have had significant difficulty learning to read. This does not mean they have not learned things; they learn better hands-on and by listening. They are intelligent boys who know a ton about space, math formulas, cooking, gardening, etc. With this learning style, standardized testing does poorly measure their knowledge.
They both do an excellent job processing auditory information (provided they choose to listen), so I read books aloud, encourage them to listen to audiobooks, and try to get them to watch educational videos on YouTube. I have spent a lot of time learning about hacks for ADHD brains over the past year. Use of timers, visual and on phones; regular check-ins on chores and schoolwork. Keeping open lines of communication with the boys, with their teachers, and with their doctors are all part of helping these intelligent yet highly distractable boys grow into independent adults. Someday.
Last week, they both had holiday band performances. The 5th grader enthusiastically blasted his coronet, and the 8th grader proved that the band becomes enjoyable with patience. His flute skills have improved greatly in four years.
I hope to see Wicked, but I am unsure if I will get the opportunity. I love this song by Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba in the new musical.
It seems my four-year-old is dedicated to specific songs for long periods of time. During Halloween, it was “Spooky, spooky skeletons.” She has a bizarre affinity for The Coffin Dance. I got her into Christmas music via “The Little Drummer Boy” because she loves the Nutcracker decoration with a drum. Anything to mix it up is helpful.
I enjoyed several audiobooks in 2024. Here are a few favorites:
I am listening to this album as I put this list together and stare down the To-Do List Before Christmas.
May this week bring joy to your senses and your soul.
My four year old also loves Spooky Skeletons and Drummer Boy! Last night, over dinner, somehow Spooky Skeletons played from her Spotify playlist, and she was singing along as if it was still Halloween!