Social Relationships at School? | ADHD Information

Hi there. My 6yo son has been on Vyvanse the past month and so far so good for the most part, other than one bad day at school that really upset me and a big fit yesterday (but late in the day after meds would have worn off).

School hasn't been perfect, but son is usually "manageable" according to his teacher. He does make it clear when he doesn't want to do something, which I don't really have a problem with -- I see that as a good trait and just part of his personality, and usually can work through such a situation with some guidance from the teacher. I would consider upping the meds, but when we did, teacher said he seemed overmedicated and withdrawn from the class/too focused on his work.

Even on the lower dossage, the teacher's main concern now is son's social behavior. She says while all the other kids come in to the classroom their chatty, while son sits down and does his work. (BTW, he's super bright and loves to read, write, etc.) She hasn't seen him interact with the other kids much unless asked to do so. He hasn't seemed to bond with anyone (although he did last year in preschool, but that kid is at a different school this year). She's worried that he doesn't know how to engage, etc. She also says he sometimes wanders around the playground.

It's strange for us to hear because he does well at home with his sister and the neighbor kids. He initiates play and talks to them well. He can be shy with new kids, but usually only last a couple of minutes. I have seen him on the playground at school running around with the other kids (although this has usually been with just his class, not the whole grade). We also heard a story from one of the school counselors about how he was leading the way in gym class, helping the other kids with a game.

Anyone else have a similar experience? I'm wondering if he's overwhelmed by so many kids? Maybe he's just better at organized activities? Any tips on how to help son in school setting when a parent can't be there?

I would give him a break and give him some time. He is probably just
getting used to school and the new medication. Maybe the teacher can give
you one or two names of kids in his class that she thinks he might click
with. Have one over for a playdate. These one-on-one playdates help my
ds lots. Maybe you can see if he mentions one of the kids in his class and
you can arrange for them to go to the park together or something. Are
there any sports or activities that his classmates participate in? It might be
fun for him to join a team that some of the other kids are on so he can see
them outside of school. The teacher should be able to help him at school
and encourage friendships. As long as he likes school, is happy and has
some friends in the neighborhood, don't worry too much. He will find his
way.Thanks so much, Babygonz and Trixila. That was our gut, too, but the teacher makes it sound so serious it makes you worry. Definitely will start on the playdates. Thanks! :)My son started first grade at a new school.  It was rough.  All of the other kids knew each other from preschool and kindergarten.  Takes time to break into established groups.  The posted advice above is exactly what I would suggest.  My 9 yr old only has a 3 yr old sister, so we have to go outside the family for pals for him.  He is in a park district soccer league, flag football at two different places, and attends day camp in summer.  All of this has helped him to make new friends, but it is slow going.  Get yourself out there and initiate playdates.  It can be hard when you are new at the school, but it makes a big difference.  I have been told that the first 2-3 months of the school year are tough for new students.  We invited 10 classmates over for a playdate during Christmas break, and that helped.  Your radar is up, but his experience sounds pretty normal to me.