ADHD and "Fidgets"

Hi,

I know that this is a very simple thing but it works with Cayden and it is in his IEP.

Another type of therapy:

Because Cayden has ADHD, it doesn’t mean the medicine that he is on completely gets rid of it, so the school has allowed him to chew gum during the day. This is a sensory issue. It actually REALLY helps Cayden to focus. I send sugarless gum all the time and it works. The teachers will say that it works and they can see a difference when he is out of gum.

Just an FYI.

Also, I know many kids have a hard time sleeping. I give Cayden .5 of melatonin in the evening so he can get to sleep. It is perfectly safe, but the most important thing is that Cayden gets the rest he needs to function better the next day. As you know ADHD kids seem to be more active if they don’t get their rest. Note that melatonin assists them in getting to sleep it doesn’t keep them asleep during the night so Cayden is NOT drowsy the next day. The melatonin is approved by Cayden Genetics, Psychiatrist and

Peds Neurologist Dr.

’s. They say that it is not harmful to him in any way.

These are a couple of tips and tricks I have found along the way.

Take care all,

Susan

ps - "Fidgets" are items kids can use to help combat their restlessness.  The gum Susan mentioned is one such item.  Sometimes therapists will have kids squeeze stress balls, texture balls, or bounce or sit on a large exercise ball rather than in a chair.  Other accommodations can also be written into an IEP.  For instance, if a child has a difficult time sitting, he can be allowed to pace the back of the room during "circle time" in a taped off area as long as he is quiet.  If he isn't quiet, he has to rejoin the group.  Often times these sensory output moments will help to refocus the child.  Let us know what helps your child!  Thanks, Jennie