What else is there to do when you have a child with adhd, and you don't want the child to take medication?

Change lifestyle: Provide structure at all times, firm and loving limit setting, break down commands to single ones, modify his diet, avoid sugary drinks and snacks, processed foods and food colorings. You may want to try omegas and never neglect therapy, behavior modification and time management skills. You need the guidance of teachers, therapists and nutritionists.

There are Some: It depends upon your goals. Most teachers are trained in techniques to help with school performance, such as allowing more time, sitting in the front of the room, tutoring, etc. Social issues are harder requiring peer patience and education.There are no proven alterative cures, such as chiropractic, supplements etc.For some, medicine is the only therapy that works.

Counseling helps: Counseling is an important part of adhd rx whether or not meds are used, for u & the child. Conferring with a counselor can help u MAP out a plan.A 2nd opinion on the DX and a broader explanation of treatment options may help u understand the process. A brief medication trial (one wk including a weekend) may help you decide if the benefits outweigh your concerns.

ADHD : I do not blame you for not wanting to have your child take meds for this. There is so much literature that tells that there is an overkill in the diagnosis of adhd. If you want you can try a structured environment at home and in school and be patietn and persistent in hte message you send to your child. Seek a second opinion for hte daignosis and if treatment is still recomm. Try it.

First: First make sure that your child has received a thorough evaluation by a well trained experienced professional.Second , make sure all available options, including meds are expained to you including efficacy, side effects, interactions.Last please be aware that meds are safe, if used properly, are the recommended treatment of choice.Neurofeedback, behavioral intervention are also recommended.

The Multimodal: Treatment of ADHD study by NIMH showed that Behavioral Management Therapy has a 30% chance of managing symptoms. Stimulant medication alone or with BMT has a 70% chance. After 8 wks. of BMT & Section 504 classroom support you & his teacher should fill out the same questionnaires used at baseline to know if he still has harmful dysfunction in academics, behavior & peer interaction. See CHADD.org.