New School Year = A New School

Our move to a new school this year was not the result in the behavior of my child who has ADHD. It was actually due to an abusive teacher who preyed upon an innocent kindergarten class, in which my youngest daughter was a student. But that is a completely different story.

Our decision to move our youngest children to a new elementary school was a difficult one. There were worries on more levels that I can name. I was worried that the kids in my son's class may not have spent time with a child with ADHD. Would they think he was odd or that his behavior was different? But knowing that my son is a very outgoing and confident child helped ease my fears for him. He has always made friends wherever he went, never shying away from asking questions and cracking jokes.

The first day his reply to my ever-reoccurring question of, "How was your day?" was not the usual, "It was ok." He actually stated that he "felt like being quiet today." That comment made my heart hurt as I know he is typically the "class clown." But we'd try again the next day and it would take time, I told him.

Rejoice! He received an invitation for a play-date at a new friend's house the second week of school! I had spent time with his new friend while having lunch with him at school and could see they got along well. The new friend was a bit reserved, maybe their activity level could meet in the middle somewhere.

As of now, the third week of school is underway. I have checked with the teacher and she has assured me that all is well within the classroom. He is listening and taking directions well. She noted that he enjoys learning and is eager to help.

While watching a children's sitcom on television yesterday, a boy in the show was having trouble fitting in at his new school. His "nanny" gave him specific instructions as to how he should help himself. "Find someone that you admire and dress and act like him." Logan shook his head and said this was exactly wrong. "Just be yourself," he said. What wonderful simple advice from a young boy. Self-knowledge is one key towards the pursuit of happiness.

Two Years have Past

This morning as I was reviewing what I had written two years ago, I sit in shock that it has been two years. As all parents do, I ask myself where has this time gone? I've wanted to write to update and keep track of my son's ADHD progression, unable to take what is on my mind and put into words.

My feelings turn to both joy and sadness as I read the previous posts. I am remembering my cotton topped blue eyed boy tagging along behind me wherever I went, curling up on my lap to read books at bedtime (our limit was three or we would have never stopped), laughing and cracking jokes that he made up in his head. Where exactly has this child gone?

The past two years have brought many, many wonderful memories: travel, new hobbies, new friends and adventures galore. But they have also brought about countless hours of on-task reminders, patience waning, exasperation and again reminding.

His commitment to be by his mommy's side is gone, friends are most important now, which is a wonderful part of growth and maturity. But please, please remember to call me if you leave their house and head to another friend's. I worry when you are gone.

The desire to read is lagging, this requires a concentration capability that is not second nature. This saddens me, to know that you may never experience the adventures that books will take you on.

Your creativity is still alive, the stories you write and art you create at school are top notch! Please do not ever lose the desire to express yourself creatively. This could prove to be a good outlet in your future.

More is expected of a child as they mature, normal daily routines should be set by now. A 9 year old is capable of this and so much more. It seems the only thing I can continually count on is the love that I can offer him and that ADHD will rear its ugly head again.