I get this question from parents quite frequently. It’s a great question! There is no right or wrong answer, it’s what’s best for your family. I hope this blog helps explain your options.
For some kids, the main reason for taking stimulants is to help with focus. In this case, taking a break from their meds during the summer is very sensible. In fact, they don’t need to take their medications on weekends, winter break, spring break, etc. However, if they will be attending summer school or an educational camp sometime during the summer, they will probably benefit from their meds. If these camps are 4 hours or less, a short-acting ADD medication is a reasonable option. Some of your kids may already take these medications for homework, extra-curricular activities or even church. If you would like to talk about trying a short-acting medication, I would be happy to discuss this option for your child.
For other kids, ADD medications help with focus & impulsive/hyperactive behaviors.
The decision to give them their medication is a family decision. Some families find their child’s behavior is greatly improved on their medication and makes family life more pleasant. These kids take their medications year-round. As long as they tolerate the medication well, it’s perfectly okay to give your child their medication every day.
An important factor to consider when deciding to give your child medication is appetite.
Unfortunately, appetite suppression is a side effect for all stimulants. However, some meds may not affect your child’s appetite as much as others. All children are different and metabolize medications differently. We won’t know what the extent of appetite suppression will be until they take a medication for 14 days in a row. If there is significant appetite suppression/weight loss, we can discuss changing medications. Summer is a great time to try new things. If your child has already tried several medications or you are happy with the current one, we can discuss ways to add healthy calories into your child’s diet.
Summer is also a great time for play therapy. Play therapy can teach your child coping skills to help improve behavior. Something you may not know is that this therapy also helps parents learn how to react when undesirable behavior occurs. From personal experience, this training helps relieve a lot of stress from the parents. You will feel more empowered from the knowledge you will obtain. Another resource that I recommend that is very helpful in dealing with challenging behaviors is the book, Parenting with Love & Logic.
As always, I’m here to help your children and family! I hope everyone has an enjoyable summer!
Susie Gartman, R.N.
469-317-1840
