Chicago area girl sees turnaround in academic performance, home life
For eight-year-old Becky Shulman of Northbrook, IL, math class was a daily problem that didn’t always add up. Diagnosed with ADHD in second grade, Becky struggled to focus her attention long enough to perform the mental steps necessary for solving seemingly simple math equations. Despite constant encouragement from her parents and her personal math tutor, Becky’s difficulties were compounded by feelings of frustration and failure that she began to associate with all things mathematical.
That changed in the fall of 2006 when Becky’s tutor learned about Cogmed Working Memory Training and suggested to the Shulmans that it might be beneficial for Becky. Becky’s mother, Debby, carefully researched the program before contacting psychologist Dr. Alan Graham of Park Ridge to sign up Becky for the training program.
With the support of her parents and teachers, Becky began the five-week program, performing the daily exercises on her home computer. She found it to be very challenging, requiring intense focus and perseverance. At times, she grew frustrated and wanted to quit but always recommitted herself with encouragement from Dr. Graham and her family. “There was an enormous amount of reinforcement at every level of the program, from the racing game at the end of each session to the weekly conversation with Dr. Graham,” said Debby, who treated Becky to celebratory lunches and manicures throughout the training. “We were all thrilled to see the daily progress Becky was making—one little jump at a time.”
After the training, Becky’s parents and teachers noticed significant changes in her behavior. At home, she exhibited greater control over her impulses and became the cleanest and most organized of her three siblings. In school, her math and test taking skills increased dramatically. Her teachers were amazed by her newfound poise in the classroom. Even Becky’s relationships benefited, as she became a more patient and attentive listener. She also took new interest in social activities that once seemed overwhelming, like cards and board games. “It was like a little light bulb went on in all these different areas of her life,” said Debby. “In many ways, Cogmed helped to re-wire the way she thinks and approaches everyday problems.”
