Words of Wisdom - Montgomery,IL

The same thing I say every year. Start going to bed early and getting up early two weeks before school starts, make sure you listen to all the teachers, get ready to do homework, and get used to school for the next 8-9 years because you are going to college and I am not supporting you for the rest of your life.

As my kids get older, it seems that the ADHD and ADD (I have two sons) are getting better as they get older. The first year after diagonsis was hell, but they both like getting older and have more responsibility. If you have good communication with the school, the teachers are aware of the problem and they get somewhat different treatment when it comes to tests and there are lists they go through to help the child succeed. Both my children do take the drugs, because they can't cope without them and both went from below average students to A and B students. So my children are actually excited for school to start and can't wait to see their friends again!

P., I am in Montgomery also. You don't say what ages or schools your kids go to. My son is adhd. He went thru long beach grade school, traughber middle school and 8th grade at thompson middle school. There are some phenominal teachers at these schools. I agree with the writers below in that you need to stay in constant contact with the schools. all oswego schools hand out those great assignment books. have an agreement with the teacher that it will be signed both at home and at school so your both on the same page as far as what is due, what is late etc... get a routine at home and stick to it. and tell your kids over and over that you love them and have a great day. don't ever shout about what they are doing wrong but more about how it can be done more effectivly. I tried not to tell my son he was wrong but would say hey maybe if you did it "this" way it would go smoother. do your kids have IEP's?

Different colored notebooks for each subject.

I would also stay in close contact with the teachers, and let this child know that you are there to help collect and organize the myriad of details that go along with school. Be on your child's team and be supportive.

Good luck and have a great year.

Unfortunately, the medicines take away their appetite.
Part of this lays on your shoulders as well.

"make sure they EAT a really good breakfast. Protein is a must. Natural foods, ( no sugary cereals or pastries ) fruits, veggies, eggs. Their ability to think and concentrate is so different. when they are given foods which aren't process. Your child will thank you for your diligence. He/she will notice the difference in their performance

Talk to the teacher often. After class if that's better. Check out that you understand the assignments. Write everything down. ADD kids miss so much. I think one of the best tools you can give them is how to organize and assert themselves to check out what is expected of them.