I can completely relate to the fact that parents of a child with ADHD feel like we are failing our kids some how. No matter what you do and how hard you try to help it just doesn't seem to do any good at all. 1 step forward and 2 steps back is a good analogy for living with attention deficit disorder.
Note: For the sake of this blog ADD (inattention) and ADHD (hyperactivity) are used interchangeably.
Its really frustrating to discuss school and parenting with other adults when their children seem to be so easily breezing through school subjects, household chores and are not constantly bouncing off the walls. That's not to mention all the verbal battles and violent outbursts you often see in a child with ADHD. It certainly does make you wonder “what the hell am I doing wrong here??!!”
By the way, if your child isn't “bouncing off the walls” that does not mean that they don’t have attention deficit. ADD Affects everyone differently so your child might have no problem sitting in one spot, but struggles to keep from daydreaming constantly when focus and attention are required.
I would like you to know before we go any further that there is no need to blame yourself or your child. ADD is a mental condition that can not be helped by kids. A child with ADHD is typically trying as hard as he possibly can to focus, but it just doesn't work. There are techniques, lifestyle/behavioral changes and yes, medications, that can help your child immensely.
Whether your child has already been diagnosed or maybe you are wondering “does my child have ADD” you came to the right place. Be sure to check out the resources in the pages that follow for some helpful tips, techniques and coping skills to help you and your child to attack this problem together.
