9 yr old daughter

Question

My daughter is very social, out going etc.. The teacher says she is having trouble staying focused in school.She is all over the place. I am afraid that if I medicate her she will become a zombie and that it will change her personality. I want her to do well in school. She has extra help at school but I think she needs help. i have schedualed an appointment with her pediatrician But I wanted to get more input. Thank you, Christine

This discussion is related to 9 year old ADD - Communication and behavior issues still a concern.

Melissa0116 · Answer

I agree that meds are not always the answer especially if she is outgoing and does not have any social issues.  The problem with meds is that once you put them on the meds it will definitely alter their behavior and demeanor.  My son used to be a outgoing, fun, and happy child but through the years of ADHD meds his demeanor and personality have totally changed.  Finally, after 5 years we found the med that is working and he is finally back to at least some type of normalcy.  He is outgoing and fun again.  He is loving and that really did not ever change.  He is on Vyvanse which is really finally helping him.  

I do not suggest putting a child on meds because there are definitely other alternatives out there.  I read a book concerning ADHD and ADD and the author stated that "ADD and ADHD meds are just an easy way out of a problem for teachers so that they do not have to actually work at it."  Every child is different and a teacher cannot expect them all to be indoctrined or personalized the way they want them to be just to make it easier on them.   I do know that their are very good teachers out there, but the few that are not good ruin for the rest of them.  

Hope this helps...................

Sally44 · Answer

I agree with above post.  You need to find out what is behind her difficulties.  
If her language and social skills are age appropriate and no problems, then it would appear that focus and attention is her main issue.  Google Executive Function Disorder to see if any of those symptoms sound relevant.  I presume you are also thinking along the lines of ADD.
There are lot of things that school can and should do to help without even considering the medication route.  If that is needed and works, all well and good.  But don't be tempted to medicate to keep her in a school that is not prepared to meet her needs.
To help with focus she could have work sheets printed out for her of what the lesson is about, and what she needs for that lesson.  If she finds it hard to organise, plan, or sequence work she should receive help from an adult to prompt her and her work can be broken down into smaller chunks so that she doesn't get lost in the process.  
She should also be given extra time to complete work and extra time in any tests or exams.

jdtm · Answer

It appears to me as if "doing nothing" is not working.  So, you will require other options.  A wise psychologist once said to me "the correct medication in the correct dosage will not change you, it will correct you".  So, IF your daughter takes medication (and that is a big "if") and IFshe becomes a zombie (and that is a bigger "if"), then the medication is wrong or incorrect dosage.  But, you're jumping to conclusions - you haven't even seen the pediatrician yet.  I know you are worried but as I said before - "doing nothing" is not the answer.  Please let us know the results of your doctor's visit - I wish you the best ....