As the parent of a *clinically diagnosed* AD/HD child (two, actually), I agree wholeheartedly that at least 50% of all *behaviorally diagnosed* cases of AD/HD (those promulgated by teachers, etc.) are wrong.
Oh - and the correct therapy (read: learning how to apply one's own ability to filter out distraction) has eliminated the need for even minimal pharmaceutical intervention at all in my kids.
Pat your self on the back for doing a good job.
Exactly what we are striving for :). I admire you.
As a teacher, I would have to agree that at least some of them are "mis" diagnosed. I never have reccommended treatment for any of my students, figuring that is between a parent and doctor. Actually, NO teacher in my school has since it is not allowed. There was one dumb teacher in my area years ago who tried to do such and she was dealt with.
That didn't stop the teacher bashers though, during the last legislative session, from saying that all of us teachers in the area were drugging the kids (without one example).
Good for you! My brother and sister-in law have 2 boys under 10 and both have been zombies for the longest time because of the different types of drugs. Now they're trying to have another child and I pray this one will not be drugged.
Glad to hear it from a parent! I had, and still have, HDHD and I don't think of it as a disability at all. I think it has helped me acheive what I have because I am a better multi-tasker than most people I know, I'm more decisive and like to get the job done NOW! Did I have to learn some techniques to help me focus and learn not to always say the first thing that pops into my brain? Absolutely. But most people with this so-called "disorder" are exceptionally intelligent and easily bored and that's not a good combination for most school-aged children. It all comes down to discipline and the will to change how you approach tasks. Even today, when I have to study materials for work that aren't very exciting, I study for a maximum of 30-45 minutes and then take a 30 minute break to do something I enjoy. After the break, I start the process over again. Otherwise, it feels like I'm looking at an entire elephant that I'm being forced to eat in one bite. Have you tried this with your children. I really find it helpful to have the 30 minute break to look forward to and it eliminated my procrastination over large projects. Keep up the proactive parenting!
How old are your kids?
Good for you! Back when I was a kid, they called me 'hyperactive.' Thank GOD they didn't have Ritalin or whatever the heck they are giving kids who are outside normative measurements.
I got what all such kids should get -- firm love, boundaries, help in self-control.
But such "therapies" require too much time and, of course, a parent who actually does parenting.
Easier to drug the little troublemaker.
Thank you for doing the heavy lifting that most biological units won't do.