New to ADHD

[splendidyam]

My second grader just started Adderall for primarily inattentive ADHD. I’ve been questioning his focus for a couple of years now; last fall he started karate partly to build focus skills. While he has made progress, he is starting to really struggle in school, which led me to take this step. I still question myself. We left first grade in the spring with a “wait and see” approach (after having seen a behavioral therapist), and the first parent teacher conference with his new second grade teacher brought this challenge to light once again. He is all over the place from an attention perspective, he isn’t listening, gets behind, can’t focus. In his own world all day. I’m hoping the meds help, but I also want to make sure we are doing the right things to help with any supporting behaviors. I think there’s a lot I probably don’t know. He is an extremely sensitive and loving boy; the struggle hurts and frustrates him, and I want him to have the confidence and pride that comes with doing his best.

Thanks for reading; I just wanted to introduce myself. This is very new territory for me, and I feel a bit lost.

[DancingMomma]

Hi Splendidyam - My son is 7 and in the 2nd grade. He took Adderall as well for about 10 days. He could stay focus and got his work done at school and at home, easy to talk to and follow direction without a lot of impulsive behavior. However, he had a strong imaginative world now and he couldn't sleep although he was tired. He stayed up past 1:30 am every night and didn't have an appetite even for snacks. His doctor said to stop the meds. We now are on non-stimulant. I don't think it's helping him in any way.

[crowningglory19]

It is tough, balancing it all. It is best to only reprimand rebellious disobedient aggressive behavior but show loving concern with work problems. Since he isn't doing it to be rebellious or aggressive, just continue encouraging and giving as much positive affirmations as possible. That will keep his self esteem up and then he will over come it. If he feels like a failure, he might give up, which is much worse than an incomplete paper. charts help to see results, look online. Also, give him B Complex every morning, it will help tremendously w add, it strengthens brain focus and concentrated energy, not hyper activity. Give him Magnesium at night, (Magnesium malate is best type) to help him sleep good, most add kids don't and Magnesium calms the mind body and spirit. Ginseng helps get rid of sticky negative thoughts too, so it is good in evenings. These will work well with or without the Dr. scripts. Blessings!