Hi everyone, I have not been on this forum for a long time. I do recognize some names, but I don't know if anyone here will remember me or not.
My son M was diagnosed with ADHD when he was 4, almost 5. His 4 year old year was very rough at school, but he did pretty ok at home. However, he didn't want to go to school (daycare 4K) and seemed very depressed and unhappy as we went in. He became aggressive, and I believe now would hit kids because it would get him out of the situation he couldn't handle (ie: circle time because he couldn't sit). We made it through the diagnosis period, as well as the trying, trying, trying to get the right meds combo - which led to a rough 4K year.
But, the good news is we finally got it right! He did great in 5K, and is doing pretty good in 1st grade. He loves math and is in an advanced math class, he is a bit behind in reading, but with the help of a reading empowerment class, he is really coming along. We just had to do a meds adjustment, and he seems to be doing fine with that.
I didn't come here to brag - but to give hope. It can get better, it is a TON of work. Don't get me wrong, we definitely still have our struggles, but it is way better than where we were 3 years ago. It is very important to be your child's advocate, to see if you can help to get them placed with a teacher that they will respond positively too, and get them the help that they need.
OK...just one little brag/proud mommy moment! M is playing flag football on a 1st and 2nd grade team. They decided to make him the quarterback, as he has the best skills of the players (he wants to play football ALL the time...anything that can be tossed and caught is a football to him!!) but I was very worried that he was not mentally ready, as he is only 7. He did a great job!! It feels so good to have other parents come and tell me how good he is...when 3 years ago I was going to take him away and hide him from all the people who were telling me bad things. It is amazing to see him happy and proud and having fun with other kids in a socially acceptable way.
Anyway, I just wanted to share. Hang in there everyone, never, ever give up. Try to find a way to channel all that passion, intensity and interest into something positive. I am so intrigued about Michael Phelps and his ADHD - obviously he found a way to successfully channel all of those things and look how amazing he is.
So proud for you!! Looking forward to a day when that kind of post has my name on the end.
So happy to hear from you dmid. I am glad things are going so well. It is nice when it settles out and you know it is all managable now.
Hoping for continued success for you and your son. Check in with updates from time to time.
It makes my heart sing to hear the happy stories I get to see on here. I am so glad for you and your son!!!!
It gives me sooooo much hope for brighter days.
Best wishes
Congratulations on your son. You must be so proud of him and the work he is doing in school and sports! Keep us up to date