Posted by Wyld_Roze on May 6, 2011, 2:51 am, in reply to "ADD"
I was diagnosed with ADD in the third grade. I can't remember a whole lot of the testing, there was some questions and a few activities. I know it was suggested to my parents for me to get tested because I had taken a specialized test to get into an honor type class three times. Each time, all my answers were correct, but it was timed, and each time I took it, I barely missed the number of minimum answers required by like one or two questions.
I still have it today, though I have learned on 99% of things how to deal with it. I did take Ritalin for awhile as a kid. They then switched me to a sugar pill to see if I did just as well. They decided that me learning I had it, and adjusting to deal with it worked well enough that I didn't need the meds. I still wonder if they were correct, though back then there was only Ritalin and there's some question of lasting side effects. If you do decide not to medicate, make sure you get a few good books, and hit ADD message boards on how to adjust to dealing with a kid with ADD. I pretty much figured it out on my own, as back then, the answer was just to "try harder." It's been my experience that people with ADD just think differently, and once you figure out how to tricks to help it can make things much easier. For instance, for a kid who loves stickers, putting stickers on a check list of homework that needs to be taken home as the LAST step before closing the locker (that way if distracted, they still end up bringing home the homework).
The good news is that most kids with ADD are very creative. I know my "thinking outside the box" brain has helped me out quite a bit. There are only a few things that trip me up anymore, one I talk alot, and two, when I was in percussion I did great at individual instruments but never could learn to play the drum set. Too many things going on at once. Interestingly enough, I seem to need at two things going on for me to concentrate, such as studying with music on. Something low key but there. There are also a number of natural ways people are using to control ADD with vitamins and herbs. Make sure the dr knows what you're giving him, just to make sure it's safe.
Do a search for ADD info and message boards. There are tons out there and LOTS of great information. Just be cautious, like with any subject there is the good and bad info, so double check sources before you believe it. Let me know if you have any questions. I'm not sure of all the meds they have these days, but I do know what it's like to grow up with ADD and can give you tips that might help with day to day things.
on May 6, 2011, 2:51 am, in reply to "