I have talked to my husband a few times about geting some kind of counselling for the kids. We married last summer and have had some issues with all of the children (my daughter is 9, then my other step-son is 8), but we have had the most problems with the youngest (our 5 year old). At this point, I have no idea what we are going to do... I read some information on ADHD and ADD, but it just doesnt seem to fit him. Thanks for your help.
MY son is 8 and, among other things, displays the same behaviors. He has ADD. Movies and books keep him occupied, too. But, at school he can't focus. We give him adderall. It helps him sit down and focus, but does nothing for mood swings. Have you tried family counseling? With mom too?
Also, I forgot to mention that he can hold his attention when I am reading to him, or if he is watching a movie or cartoon that he is interested in, and generally when he is doing something he wants to do.
The behaviors you describe are not typical of children with ADHD, though they obviously should be of concern. When such young children behave in such a fashion, it almost always is related to stresses within the family. It wold make sense to consult with a pediatric mental health clinician who can evaluate your stepson's mental status and collaborate with you about how to proceed. One thing to consider is the custody arrangement. Week-to-week changes in residence are usually frowned upon for young children - such arrangements are an invitation to instability, even in the best households. And where strains are present the probability or serious problems increases significantly. So, I'd re-evaluate the arrangement. It's one of the things you can discuss with the clinician.