Back story: as we were filling out the ADHD survey for Thomas to pass on to his pediatrician, we were realizing more and more that while Thoams is possibly/probably ADHD,  Luke is text book.  TEXT BOOK.

Some of our biggest issues with him, we have realized, are the direct results of his constant need for stimulation.  Time out, 4 minutes?  He is incapable of sitting still for 4 seconds.  Which leads to increased length of time out, just trying to achieve that 4 minutes.  His hands?  Constant search for activity.  Stimulation.  And cause and effect.  The finger tapping, crayon twirling is one thing.  But the snapping of toys in half because he is bored and wanted to see what would happen, is another.  Then comes the chewing.  He has not outgrown the infant need to mouth things.  For the longest time I’m like OMG CHILD WHAT THE HELL!  Then is finally came to me: stimulation.  He’s seeking it with his mouth.  Explains the different textures and such of what he chews on. (Books, toys, pillows, furniture, me.)

So.  I decided to buy him a teething toy.  Not unlike what his sister has.  Granted, the one I’m eying will both allow finger AND mouth fidget, but still much the same.  I just think we will see massive progress if we give him an acceptable outlet for his need to stimulate his brain.  I get it now.  I really do.  So I’ll take a closer look at the one I have in mind to be sure it is 4-year-old tooth and strength durable, and then I’m buying it.  Plus?  The most expensive of the type is like 3$.  If this fixes this constant battle or even just improves it, I think it could be the best investment ever.

So the diagnosis progress for both boys is as follows:

Thomas is going to therapy where I go to mine, but is being diagnosed through his pediatrician.  It is the most efficient set up for his age bracket and having spoken to that office, his Ped is more than qualified to make this call and treat the medication aspect.  Then the therapy will balance out the behavior.  But honestly, I think the therapy has been a success and he’s as good as it’s going to get without some medical help.  He is a good kid with great skills that he can implement.  He just needs something to take the edge off to make the flow smoother.

Luke has his first therapy session scheduled for early April.  He is young but he is advanced for his age in communication skills and Thomas’ therapist has willingly agreed to take him on.  He will go through his diagnosis and medication process with their children’s psychiatrist.  The Ped just isn’t equipped to diagnose someone his age.  The primary method they use to diagnose compares survey notes between parents and teachers.  Which is more than efficient.  But just doesn’t work at Luke’s age.  The psychiatrist, however, has a deeper education on this, since mental health is, after all, her specialty in the medical field, and will be able to use alternative means to asses someone who isn’t in school.

So hopefully in 6 month’s time, in time for the next year to start, both boys will be far enough along in this that decisions will weighed and meds tried.

I am not quick to throw a pill at an ail, but I am quick to do what I have to do to give my boys the best advantage possible in life.