YMCA camp going well | ADHD Information

Last year I removed Jillian from a Y camp after they called to tell me she
choked a child who would not let Jillian play with the group. (This
incident was the last straw and led to her being diagnosed and on meds.
Thank God.)

Anyway, a year goes by and I sign her up for YMCA tennis camp with her
older sister. I hold my breath waiting to get a phone call or hear a bad
report from her older sister. Turns out Annie (my 9 yr old) and Jillie are
having a lot of fun! Annie says that Jillian is doing great and that she is
making friends. Jillie was extremely excited that she passed the swim
test to swim in the deep end. (They let the kids swim as part of the camp
day.)

To all parents of very young kids who are exhibiting signs of ADHD, just
please know that it can get better. We chose to medicate, which has been
a godsend. We got lucky that the first thing we tried, worked. Also, as
Jillie has matured, things have improved. I am so grateful. She goes off
to camp happy and comes home tired. Two more days to go, and I hope
she keeps it up.

Great to read about your experience.  this summer is my 9 yr old son's third summer at a Y day camp.  Year one, no meds:  three calls and writeups about behavior.  Year two:  medicated with clonidine, no incidents and was camper of the week.  Year 3:  now on Focalin XR and clonidine, an absolutely stellar report each week. 

My son needs to be kept busy every day.  The Y offers 'travel camp" and they take the bus to different locations.  Themes are mini golf, bowling, waterparks, and horseback riding, etc.  It is a budget breaker but worth the expense.  Perfect for kids with adhd to minimize boredom with regular camp activities.  His improved behavior is a combination of maturity, familiarity with the program and the right combo of meds.  Even though I medicate at home, I keep the Y informed of this situation and put in my request for male counselors if possible.  Y campers also have to sign a character contract to encourage following the rules.  He has to read and sign an actual contract.  This helps to take responsibility for his actions.  The best part is he is making new friends.  His only sibling is a pesky 3 yr old sister, and he continues to have difficulty getting along with her.  But that is another post. 

I am so happy for you! It's so encouraging to hear the good stuff!

that is great! I love reading our success posts. Our adhd kids can have happy lives. we just have to keep trying until we get it right!!

Great post!!

That's great!!  I'm so happy for you and your daughter!!