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Mr. Martin,
 
I want to personally thank you for presenting a workshop for my staff and students that truly provided “immediate” strategies that were evidenced by several of them on the very next day.  We have been singing your praises to all.  I shared my thoughts regarding your presentation to my staff and parents at my MCAASP Board of Directors’ meeting.  The individuals who are represented by this organization are principals, assistant principals, and central office representatives.  They were so interested in my “enthusiasm,” that I was asked to share your site information.  As a result, our Board president has sent out this information to the 130 elementary representatives.
 
Once again, thanks and I do hope that we are able to collaborate in the future on other workshops. Take care.
 
Joanne Smith, Ed.D.
Principal, Montgomery County Public School System

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Dear Mr. Martin,

Everyone is buzzing about how wonderful you were. The principal wants for me to keep in touch and ask you to come back. The staff developer that has morning cafeteria duty came to the principal and me with a big smile saying,"It works, It really works"! She was referring to a student that was having a melt down in the cafeteria screaming at the top of his lungs," I hate this school " and other things. She put to practice what she learned in the training and asked him to go find a staff member for her. The child completely changed his attitude! Thank you so much from our Glen Haven Family,

Noelia Torres
Parent Outreach Coordinator
Glen Haven Elementary School

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My husband has noticed a difference in the way I've interacted with the kids lately, has been touched by my recent successes, and asked me what I was doing differently.  Then he actually tried to use what I told him I had learned!  This was my non-interested husband who kept telling me our family was fine, I just needed to spank more.  Now he's interested, and the results of your teachings did the talking instead of just me.  We still have a long, long way to go, but after today, I think we're on our way!
 
Jennifer Grandison

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Kirk - it was my absolute pleasure to introduce you at the workshop.  It has really made a difference in our house.  My husband enjoyed it as well. 
 
I've lost count of the number of parents and teachers who said they enjoyed it, as well as those who said they could name 10 other people who should come hear you.   We have never had a turnout that large for any parent event.  Ever.  I think it speaks very loudly to what we parents are looking for.
 
I can tell you that you gave a lot of people a lot to think about.   It was a spectacular day! We would love to have you come back. (we might have to find a larger venue!) 
 
Talk to you soon,
Lisa Landis, Montessori School of Alexandria

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Dear Kirk,
 
Thanks so much for coming out to Centennial Lane and speaking to our parents and teachers.  Based on what I saw that night and the comments I got the following day, you certainly struck a cord with many there.  It was obvious that parents are hungry for the type of useful information you imparted and it was evident by the fact that they didn't want to let you go home.  You had hangers-on well after we turned out the lights.
 
At school the following day, both teachers and parents thanked me for inviting you to our school.  I told them that I felt everyone should listen to your CALM suggestions and most of the credit should go to you for having such practical and useful material to present.
 
Personally, I have read your newsletters for about 4 years now and I (like many others) think "when did he peek in my window?"  You have described my son so well and have helped me understand him better.  So far, we have lucked out that we do not have major issues with him, but understanding him more has helped us help him more.  I have been able to explain to his teachers why he does things the way he does and what his needs are so that they can try and meet his needs in the classroom.
 
I have just started listening to your CDs, and you are right on the money there, too.  We have always provided a really good structure in our home, and it's great to hear that's one of the things he needs.  With every minute I listen, I am either rewarded with a confirmation of something I've already done or with a suggestion of something new to try.  I can't wait to finish listening to all the CDs.
 
Thanks again for sharing everything you have learned to help your own son with the rest of us.  I feel very fortunate to have been a quiet reader and now to have met you in person.
 
Thanks.
 
Sori Meredith
Ellicott City, MD PTA

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Mr. Martin, my Mom made me listen to your CD's. They were alright and not as bad as I thought. Your voice is relaxing. Anyway, here are two ideas I came up with after listening. And yes my Mom is MAKING me write to you even though you're not supposed to make your kids do things! I don't like getting up in the morning for school, sorry, just true. The deal I made with my parents is that I get 10 minutes of me-time when I wake up. I wake up to music and play in my room, and I fix breakfast and eat outside. Sometimes it's cold but I like the alone time like you said. As long as I'm ready for the bus on time, I get this time. Otherwise, my parents do your whole choices and promises thing. Oh, I did that to another kid in my class. I gave him a choice about how he could treat me and talk to me because he's rude, and just made a promise and walked away. It was actually kinda cool. I also made a deal about homework--as long as I get my homework done, I can do it however I want. So lately I've been lying on the floor upside down with my feet up on the couch and I listen to my iPod and eat a snack. It drives my parents crazy cuz I get crumbs all over my shirt, but I just told them to control their own anxiety, that I'd clean it up. I get my homework done and we don't all yell at each other. I guess that's better. Okay, I'm done with this. Thanks.
A Really Cool Kid in Texas, Age 11

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Dear Mr. Martin,

It was a great pleasure meeting you and learning from you.  You did an outstanding job delivering a message that this community greatly benefited.  Thank you for making the time to visit us.  Your son served a great role as a model for our young students.  Hats off to him!

Florence Hu
Principal, Centennial Lane Elementary

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I've been receiving your e-mails for the last 6-8 months and then I attended one of your meetings in Fairfax City Library a couple of weeks ago, and subsequently bought the CDs.  I love them, not least because my husband actually listens to them (I stacked them into his car CD player!) and acts on what he's learned.  Apparently things you say are much more believable than things I say, even if strangely similar ... go figure!
Haley Grant, Fairfax, VA

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Mr. Martin-Boy am I grateful to have seen you speak!  Life altering ideas- and I needed them!

Jodie Dremisa, Newark, NJ

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 I have listened to most of the 15-CD set we recently purchased.  There are so many ideas I want to hold onto and remember, though I listen while driving so don’t take notes.  What I can tell you is that a few BIG ideas have made a difference.  Simply being calm and thinking about the underlying need has made a difference.  I have a few months/years of rebuilding to do with my 16-year old son.  And for the first time in a long while, I am optimistic that we can do this.  And I am experiencing how my actions and attitudes create or reinforce his actions and attitudes.
 
I am a work in progress, but I am learning some great lessons from your CDs.  Thanks so much – you are providing a valuable service to the community!
 
Jenny C.,
 Augusta, ME

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It was my husband that wanted to go, because we have a teenage son with bi-polar. All the yelling and stress in the house effects everyone.
 
We have been seeing a psychiatrist for years now and my son is in counseling. I was indifferent to going, because I wondered what he could tell me that I already didn't know through the years of seeing Dr.'s, but it was two hours out of my life, what did I have to lose, and if hubby wanted to go then I'll go.
 
I was actually surprised. All the years in counseling everyone always worked with our son on how to help his needs but no one ever taught me how to parent his needs. Let’s face it they don't come with a book, and a child with special needs does not respond to "normal" parenting.
 
I was sad that the seminar only lasted 2 hours. I wanted to hear more of what he had to say. Kirk is a very good speaker, not only is the things he is teaching helpful but he is very entertaining as well.
 
Thank You,
Trish Cox

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Kirk -- FABULOUS workshop on Thursday night.  My husband and I got so much practical information out of it.  Just tonight we were out to dinner, and Peter was laying down in the booth.  Normally we would have said like 100 times, "...Peter, sit up...Peter get up off your tummy...Peter please be a big boy and sit up in the booth..."  Tonight we just got over our own anxieties about whether other parents were looking at us for not having a child sitting perfectly in his chair, and we enjoyed our dinner so much more!  So simple, and it really transformed our dining out experience.  Looking forward to continuing on your mailing list and devouring your newsletters.  Thank you again!

Sarah Picone

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As a parent who has read almost every parenting book in order to understand my child, I was amazed that Kirk had nailed down every complexity of my child within the first 20 minutes of his workshop! His honest testimonials and practical ideas gave me what 10 years of specialists have been unable to do- an understanding and appreciation of my child. I am eternally grateful.
Alison Corsino, Oak Park, IL

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Kirk,
    I just wanted to thank you for all you do.  You are making a difference in so many people's lives.  I have heard from many teachers and parents, in DeWitt and Grand Ledge, how excited they are after attending your workshops. You have made such a positive impact on my family life. 
  Thank you!
 
Kelly Nevison

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Hi!  I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy your newsletters.  It helps keep your concepts alive in my mind, and then I use them every day with my kids.  I have been to a couple of your programs, and also have bought your parenting CD's.  I have been passing your thoughts (and newsletters) on to my husband, and it has really helped him calm down some in our home. 
 
Thanks again for all of your help and ideas!  Keep them coming!
Fondly,
Joanne Kemplin

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WE GOT THEM  TODAY!!!!  HOORAY!!  We just finished the first one.  You have a great, calming voice!!  How fortunate!  I'll be in touch..
Namaste
Maria

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Kirk-
I want to say a BIG "Thank You!!!" for the wonderful news letters you send out.  I have always been the "calm" parent in this family, but at times I struggle to stay strong for my family (yes, mom gets tired & frustrated too!)  Being able to forward the newsletters to my husband has given many of my calm methods more credibility-Thank You!!
 
I also greatly appreciate your son sharing his perspective and why he acts certain ways or how his thoughts run—this has been such a help to me in understanding my 7 year old son.
 
Tonight was one of the wonderful "ah ha!" moments... based on some of your "food for thought" and my mom tenacity, I took my son into his room to do his reading. I also brought our exercise ball, sat him on it at his desk and sat behind him on a chair.  I used a 3x5 index card to help him track each sentence and reduce the "noise" of the pictures and other sentences. Seriously, I wanted to cry tears of joy! He actually enjoyed doing the homework and we weren't struggling to stay focused and on track. I kept my leg behind the exercise ball so that he didn't suddenly start to roll, and the gentle bouncing helped him burn some energy. We made it to page 16 of one of the Magic Schoolbus books. On a "good" night we usually only make it through half that many pages.  THANK YOU!!!
 
Thanks again for all of your time, insights and positive encouragement!!  
Kim

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I wrote to you many weeks ago to tell you how relieved and excited my husband and I were to discover you and your organization.  We have learned so much about our 11 yr. old, Jared, and how better to respond to him, help him, and give him the tools to help himself.  Jared has even told us that he sees a difference in us and that he appreciates it.  Our home, while not perfect, is so much more relaxed and happy!

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My husband and I attended your Workshop and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We found ourselves laughing and nodding in agreement, and there were more than a few "aha!" moments, too. 

Here's what I'm most excited about!  We had been really worried about Jacob's transition to middle school, but he's done remarkably well—so much better that his elementary years.  I got a call this week from the school learning specialist who said that she and his teachers agree that this a kid who should be taking honors classes.  The specialist said she frequently sees "flashes of brilliance". :)  This from a kid who could barely eke out a B or C in elementary school and who regularly called himself "stupid".  The teachers have worked out an action plan with Jacob to improve his organizational skills at school in preparation for the new classes that will start in January.  Jacob chose to only take two honors classes rather than four because he recognizes his dislike of change and we happily let him make that choice.  He is so proud of himself!

Thank you, again, from the bottom of my heart!  Keep on championing these wonderful children! God bless!

Tracy Carter, Raleigh, NC

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Dear Kirk, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate your newsletters. I have been sharing them with as many people as I possibly can. Please know that your efforts are helping me personally and professionally.
 
Sincerely, Paul Garcia

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I swear, Kirk, it's like every struggle I have along the way somehow makes it onto your radar and you send out a newsletter on exactly what I'm worrying about most at the time every week!
 
You sent the newsletter about putting on a jacket the very same day that I had that exact fight with my 13 year old and was out of my mind stressed about how to handle situations like that with him.
 
 Thank you, thank you, thank you! BTW, I'm half way through the CD set and am looking forward to giving them to my son to listen to afterwards.
 
Best regards,
Marcia Brundey

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Kirk,
It was my absolute pleasure to introduce you. It was so great seeing the other parents engaging in your ideas as well.  I have heard positive feedback from a few area parents already. 
 
FYI, my son Kenny was having difficulty with his math last night – getting over half the answers wrong.  It was not because the concepts were too difficult for him, but because he was having difficulty focusing on the work.  So I told him to grab his paper and pencil and follow me downstairs.  We put the paper on a nearby table and I had him jump on the mini tramp while I asked him the questions.  This time he only got one answer wrong!
 
I could tell you so many stories using Celebrate Calm techniques, you could write a million newsletters.

Gerry Mendowski, Michigan

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Hi Kirk!

I was the first person at your workshop in Waunakee, and I cannot tell you how glad I am that we came... on a school night... in the middle of the week... my point is, the hectic-ness that getting a couple of babysitters for the kids (and taking them home afterwards!) was nothing compared to how glad I am that we met you and listened to your presentation.  I've not had the chance to listen to the CDs in their entirety, but I did get to the part about the choice ball.  This past weekend I bought a "Koosh" ball and another ball that's squishy and lights up (talk about stimulation!).  One is in the car, and one is at home.  The first time we needed to use the choice ball was on Sunday night, and our five year-old didn't want to get in the tub.  He started walking away from the bathroom, and I showed Benny the choice ball.  I told him that he had two choices: to either get in the tub or to make the bad choice and run away.  I also told him that if he squeezed the choice ball really hard, it would light up if he was going to make the good choice.  It worked LIKE MAGIC.  Since then we've used it twice more, and it really does make him stop and think about what he's doing... and the ability to just SQUISH the heck out of that ball is a great stress-buster for him!

Thanks for your help.
Kristin and Andy Davis

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I also wanted to tell you that my husband has been listening to the CD's - and I have noticed a difference already.  Last night, our daughter had a ton of homework plus make up work because she missed school. She was very overwhelmed, panicked, and did not want to do any homework at all. But, we worked through it. What was most impressive to me, though, was how supportive and positive my husband was through all of it. I noticed my daughter looking at him one time like "who are you and where did my Daddy go?"  because that would not have been his normal response. I mentioned to him later about how good it was and he said "those are good CD's - and you are right that IS our daughter he is talking about"  So, we are on our way as a family.
     Lois, Atlanta, GA

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I thought the presentation "Celebrate Calm" was excellent!  I've read a lot of books on behavior management and I've engaged in a lot of professional development seminars on the topic, including an entire week one summer at a "Responsive Classroom" institute.  What I haven't gotten that I think Mr. Martin provides is very strong, practical suggestions for dealing with and understanding those students who do not respond to the usual techniques and strategies.
     Mrs. Gleason, 1st Grade Teacher & Teacher of the Year

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Your CD’s have been a blessing.  It is the first program I have found that helps me understand how and why my daughter thinks like she does, instead of telling me what is wrong with her and what I need to fix inside her.  I've tried pieces from other parenting methods, but nothing seems to completely fit the needs of an ADHD child.  I love that you can explain to me in adult words what is going on inside my child.
Thank you!!!
     Samantha C., Salt Lake City
 

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I ordered your Parenting CD's and they have made a huge impact on our family (even on my husband!). I am learning to be a quiet "brick wall" when my son goes nuts. And he, in turn, is surprising me by being more cooperative, more often! Thank you! Something in the way you've presented this material has finally gotten through my thick head! :) It works. I've been forwarding your newsletters to everyone I know with an "intense" child.
     Kristen B., Nashville, TN

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Your strategies are easily understood and very practical. I often pass them along to parents I work with, and also use them to stay on track myself (I am a clinical social worker). One you wrote about fathers, I shared with a mother attending my group. It changed a dynamic between her, her husband, and their 15-year-old son in a very dramatic and positive way.  Keep them coming—you're transforming relationships in a very big way.
     Carol H., LISW

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Thank you so much for your email information to me, a teacher of students with special needs.  I have incorporated many of your strategies; measurable success has been the result. I am sharing these strategies as well. Perhaps the greatest improvement of all, though, can be found in my steadily increasing understanding.  When I read and study your emails, I continue to gain insight to the very real needs of students; I am certain this new attitude will equip me to more effectively teach students who deserve my best. Thank you from my heart!
     Karen S.

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Thanks for all your help this year. My nine-year-old son listened to the first CD and his eyes lit up (of course he was moving around and wrestling with our dog).  But I believe he was listening to you describe him.
     Margaret K., Minnesota

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We recently purchased your CD’s, and have already noticed results from 2 techniques. This information provides us with great tools for helping us as parents to save the household...many thanks.
     David and Margie H., Virginia Beach, VA

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Every teacher has at least one (sometimes more than one) student who doesn't qualify for special education services but whose behavior can be so disruptive that an entire class is at risk due to constant interruptions and/or belligerent behavior on the part of that student. Needless to say we are often at a loss for strategies to help us maintain "calm" in the midst of chaos.  Wouldn't it be wonderful to have that support when the system has nothing in place for those students?  I know first grade would be more than willing to "pilot" such a program.
     Cedar Lane Elementary School

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Thanks so much!  I am reading your newsletters. I’m VERY impressed!  My husband and I feel so alone with our temperamental son, and it’s wonderful to hear that we really aren’t alone!
     Becky R.

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Wow!  I loved this strategy! I have a 9 yr old daughter and this describes her perfectly.  Thank you for helping me think of other ways to help her get her thoughts out onto paper. In one way or another, your articles always help me. Thank you so much!
     Sharon T.

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Your CD’s are amazing.  We have recommended them to our support group, and to our son's group therapists as well. I have a BA in psychology and have spent much time working with children and adolescents. After listening to your CD’s, we feel we finally have guidance for our own 'behavior'. As I told my son's counselors: we were able to see many things we were doing wrong...yet also received confirmation that many of the things we are doing are "right on".  The CD’s therefore have not only been an educational tool, but also a wonderful encouragement  (sometimes as a parent of an ADHD teen ... we feel we are doing it all wrong!). 
     Claudia O., Arlington, VA

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Thank you for the great ideas.  Your message today is perfect timing.  We are right in the middle of the storm and I have a very good feeling that you have just saved a tremendous amount of heartache.  Thank you for helping me to be able to help my son.
     Angie T.

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Thank you for validating WHY I feel that way.  It just never really occurred me to put 2 + 2 together and realize he really IS more comfortable in a more mature environment. You did it again! To say the least, you do an immeasurable service with your advice!  Thanks.
     Barb, WI

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Thank you Mr. Martin! You have helped me so much over the time. My children and I have benefit greatly from your wisdom and insights. I can't appreciate you enough since I'm going through a very tough period of time of my life. Keep up the great work!
     Dinny L.

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You describe my kids exactly! I delete almost all of the automatic email I receive but I always read Celebrate Calm letters.  You are using your gifts in a wonderful way and making an incredible difference. Thank you!
     Patty H.

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Since listening to your CD's, I have been the CALM MOM with everyone (even Dad) and this Ranting Rachel has melted away.  
     Brenda G., Palo Alto, CA

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I've been getting your newsletters since you came to our school last
fall. I look forward to every one and find every one incredibly helpful,
insightful, inspiring and uplifting.  This one today is no exception.  I
thank you so much for it.  I wholeheartedly believe what you say to be
true and have tried to live that and communicate it to my family. You are the best gift I get every week.  :) Thank you for sharing yourself and your insights with us all!!  :)
     Caran B.

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Love your newsletters.  They are a cut above most of the professional newsletters I receive. Thank you!
     Katie-Child & Family Therpist, Austin TX

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My professional staff and I continue to use the many strategies you presented.  The in-depth evaluations provided in your individual team meetings have been invaluable.  Your willingness to go beyond the formal lecture presentation to delve more deeply with classroom teachers presented us with a unique staff development opportunity.

Often times, staff development never reaches the classroom. However, your strategy of reviewing actual cases and observing students in the classroom setting empowered our educators to pursue new strategies.

The Parent Workshop was a godsend for many parents. Many programs identify the problems, but few offer practical solutions or strategies. Your ability to de-mystify the problems of students with learning differences gave our parents hope and a renewed commitment to the success of their children.

It is a shared consensus by staff, administration and parents that Calm Classrooms offers one of the most powerful training modules for today’s complex learning environment. The combination of your knowledge, expertise and delivery model give you my high endorsement."
     Principal Brandon Smith
     East Wake Academy/ Raleigh, North Carolina

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Instead of a boring lecture, Kirk Martin delivered lively, engaging training sessions that equipped us with the tools to change our community. Mr. Martin made the connection between scientific insights and practical strategies that help all children and families. We highly recommend Celebrate!ADHD.
     Beulah Greer, Executive Director
     MS Parent Information & Resource Center (PIRC)

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Thank you so much for the Professional Training Session. I have had so many 'unanticipated' great things happen since the training already. I am at a whole new level of acceptance of my son. I came to the training for professional reasons to grow in the field, and got so much more! I really feel it was so worthwhile and positive.
     D. Lacy, New Jersey


This wonderful work will transform the deflating experiences children encounter at home and school into a celebration of their natural gifts, talents and passions. Such positive affirmation cultivates each child's self-worth and produces rousing levels of success. The powerful methods in Celebrate!ADHD help children feel a deep sense of self-confidence and acceptance. I implore you to celebrate ADD!
     Dr. Howard Glasser, Bestselling Author
     Transforming the Difficult Child: The Nurtured Heart Approach


You passed on a great deal of insight and knowledge to our teachers and it will impact many children positively for years to come.  It was truly a comfort to have someone who really understands the challenges we face as educators.
     Robert W. Duckworth, Principal
     Legacy Elementary School, Ashburn, VA
   

Simply put, if you want the one resource who understands kids with learning differences inside and out, you must schedule a Calm Classrooms Workshop. The most beneficial Workshop our school has ever had.
     D. Gonzales, 4th grade teacher
     Dallas, TX


Most in-service programs are nothing but theory. It is clear you have spent time in classrooms because your strategies work. Highly recommended.
     S. Hardeman, 7th grade teacher
     Gwinnett County, GA Public Schools



I’m sure you hear this a lot, but... I honestly feel that was the very best, most valuable three hours I have ever spent.
     N.B., Raleigh NC


You restored calm to our home. I can't thank you enough.
     The Hill family, Boston, MA


Thank you a thousand times over. After our call, we started implementing your strategies. The visual reminders worked immediately and we’ve been meltdown free for three weeks now. The homework tips are great. Can’t wait to tell you more on our call next month.
     Stephanie F., Dallas TX


You are my weekly sanity check. I don’t know what I would do without you.
     Sandra B., San Francisco, CA


Our weekly coaching emails keep my family in balance, and your encouragement and wisdom always seems to come at just the right time. Sometimes it’s nice to have someone to bounce ideas off.
     Doug and Janet K., Toronto, ON


I like your straightforward answers. You challenge us, but you also take the burden of parenting and stress off of me. Ahh, I need that.
     Joanna and Steven F., Minneapolis, MN


You’ve helped more in two months than my psychologist did in two years!
     Calla S., Denver, CO


Thank you once again for your constant encouragement. Your messages make me feel more empowered to make a positive impact with my son. He is without a doubt the most complex individual I have ever met. I used to think I was pretty smart. Like they say, God indeed has a sense of humor. You have a gift and I greatly appreciate you sharing it.
     Don, Atlanta, GA

Our home life has improved and the arguing has decreased. Your Workshop was invaluable.
     John H., Maryland

Each time I listen to a CD, you remind me of some wonderful way to turn things around and look at the positive side of things.  God bless you!
     Hannah, Chicago


Thank you guys so much for all that you do for those of us who sometimes feel like there isn't anywhere we can turn for help.  I know when I first contacted you at the beginning of the year I was feeling so overwhelmed, confused, and frustrated with my family's situation.  So throughout this year you have been a lifeline for us and I really appreciate the effort and sincerity that you offer. I find your parenting advice invaluable!
     California Mom


Just wanted to drop a note of thanks for the newsletters. It is very valuable information and I really appreciate the help it has already given me.  As a mental health worker, I thought I had all the skills I would ever need to handle my children.  But I often find that the more I learn, the more I realize I don't know and/or forget to use. The newsletters are a great resource and very much appreciated.
      K. Kendall, MSW, Utah


Your advice and words of encouragement are a lifeline for many of us. Thanks again for reaching out to us and our kids. Ya'll are making such a tremendous difference in people's lives.
     Joanna H., Baton Rouge, LA


Just listening to your CD’s gets me through the day. Family and friends are still clueless to my challenges as a Mom to this extraordinary and special child of mine. Thank you for being the voice of calm in my life.
     Mary B., Palo Alto, CA    


The work you do is amazing and has had proven results.  I thank God that you are so proactive in this fight for our gifted kids.  From my heart, I am so blessed to know you.
      Shelley C., Raleigh, NC


I had to write to tell you about the amazing impact of one of your simplest ideas—exercise.  We always felt that our had enough exercise, because every afternoon he would run around in the yard, ride bikes in the neighborhood, etc., so when I read what you said about getting moving I guess I just didn’t pay much attention to it—“yeah, yeah, we got that covered.”  Then we adopted an abandoned dog into the family and she really needed exercise, first thing in the day. My son and I started walking her first thing in the morning, me walking and him scootering—doing jumps, tricks, etc.—really vigorous exercise for a couple of miles. This has transformed his schoolwork!! The difference is incredible—I can’t believe it took me this long to get it.  It’s the physical workout first thing in the day, before I expect him to sit down and concentrate on fractions or grammar lessons. Not only is he able to concentrate better, he is happier, calmer, and has more “good energy.” I just had to write to say, “You were right!!!”  and to thank you for all you continue to do to help our kids, schools and families.
     Patty H., Columbia, SC


Your newsletters are so very, very good—you seem to hit on the things, at the right time, that we are seriously struggling with, at the time. Thanks more than I can say.
     A Grateful Mom


I find your CD’s inspiring, needed therapy for "Mom", and a general sense of "Why couldn't I have found this a few years ago?" I would just like to thank you, for being so straightforward, honest, and down to earth. Thanks for giving a Mom her sanity back!  = )   lol
     Beth K.


Last night my son and I were working on his mountain of homework.  He was humming and fidgeting in his chair and I was getting frustrated at the pace he was working.  We had already worked in 2 separate "shifts", and still had a long way to go.  When we took a break I decided to listen to one of your CD’s to calm myself, and what a surprise it was to hear your suggestion of letting kids fidget and hum.  I decided to give it a try. Guess what... it worked!  He was so much more relaxed and finally made a big dent in his work. Isn't it amazing how God made me hear this message just when my son and I needed it most?    
     Angela G.


We are working on not raising our voices and staying calm and matter of fact. I got to try this out on Sunday am at church when my youngest wanted a donut before the service and started whining and crying. I didn't say a word after "no" and kept walking. Lo and behold, she followed right behind and that was it! Hmmmm, could it be that simple????? hahaha!
     A Michigan Mom



I was skeptical at first, but you described my son perfectly. It’s like you had been watching our house! I am so glad I got over my fear and invested in the Workshop. You are right—life is more peaceful and calm when you become proactive. I am making progress! Thank you.
     Samantha and Derrick M., Chicago IL


You helped me understand my son. For all these years, I had just assumed the worst because he was so different and so difficult. For the first time, we are doing father-son things together and it just feels good. It’s hard but so worth it.
     Jack P., Bronx NY


Aaron was so unmotivated and disorganized, but having someone (besides us!) to hold him accountable and teach him how to capitalize on his advantages made a huge difference.
     Jacob and Sheryl G., Ashburn VA


Scheduling the in-home consultation was a little scary, I have to admit. But having you come and observe the kids, show us how to set up the house better and interact in positive ways has made a huge difference. It has helped eliminate meltdowns, family arguments and calls from the Principal.
     Sarah and Joel D., Raleigh NC


You made a very strong impression on Justin. When we got home Saturday he said, "I want to keep working with Kirk until I'm a teenager." Since then, he has said many times, "I'm good at inventing things." I have to say, it's the first time in his life I've ever heard him say that he was good at anything and for that I cannot thank you enough.
     Karen R., Silver Spring MD


John used to have an explosive temper and get so upset about everything. Since you've been working with him, he's much more patient and the outbursts have stopped. I feel like you've given me my little boy back.
     Chris and Sara S., Frederick MD


I had been trying to teach my child in the way that my brain thinks. Now that I have gotten on his page, our relationship has blossomed and the result can be seen in his behavior and self-confidence. Why was I so dense for so long? Keep up the great work. It really is life changing.
     Jennifer H., Dallas


I can’t tell you how much home life has changed since we instituted your “No Yelling” and “No Excuses” policy.
     Eva and Gabriel K., Tampa


I just never really understood my son before this Workshop. We had given up hope that we could do anything to really help. It's been 3 weeks now and we're amazed at the changes we've been able to make. Thank you for giving us hope and helping us to enjoy our son again.
     Mark G., Chicago