How to teach a sensory defensive kid to.. | ADHD Information

swallow pills?

My son is 9years old and is currently on Risperdal, Focalin XR and Prevacid. He cannot swallow pills (as of yet, I'm determined that he learn though!) so is therefore on m-tabs of Risperdal (they dissolve in his mouth almost instantly) and the soluable form of Prevacid (which he just chews, okayed by his pediatrician). The Focalin XR is just something that we open the capsule up and sprinkle the beads into a PB sandwich. Not the most ideal way, I know but it's the only way we can get it in him.

My son is autistic along with having AD(H)D (non-hyperactive, although he DOES have his moments) and SID (sensory integration dysfunction). He has a very sensitive gag reflex although in the last year, this is much improved; especially once we began treating his Acid-Reflux disease.

Does anyone have any tips on how to teach him to swallow pills? His meds would be SO much cheaper if he COULD swallow pills, and it would be easier in the long run, I think.

Any tips would be appreciated!


asdkidsarecool39684.352337963

practice.

start with mini m & m's, then tic tacs. I used to put the pill in pudding, then ice cream, then applesuace, eventually she swallowed with water. Practice with candy as it's cheap and you dont care if he chews it. Another thing others have used is frosting. Depends on what your child likes. The thicker the better to start.

They sell special pill cups, but I've heard mixed on this. We never used one. They are inexpensive and probably worth a try if the above doesnt work...........PATIENCE is key.