Do children with adhd need to take methylphenidate during the school holidays?

Maybe: While controversial, in a number of cases, children who have adhd do not need medications during the holidays. Generally, adhd affects most, if not all, aspects of a child's life. This includes school and home life. However, some children do not present with severe symptoms of hyperactivity or poor impulse control and parents can control their behaviors.

Absolutley: If methylphenidate is the medication, it should be given every day. Adhd is a brain disease, it doesn't go away in summer time or vacations. Those who discontinue medications during vacations find that those unstructured, less supervised times are when their kids start doing tobacco or drugs.

It depends...: Generally i recommend that children with adhd take their medications throughout the year. The reason for avoiding medication holidays is that even when school is out, not taking medications makes an adhd child more impulsive, inattentive, and potentially hyperactive. This can interfere with social functioning. But I have had families who feel that this is an acceptable risk and do med holidays.

Most do: Adhd is a chronic neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts academics, behavior & peer interaction 24/7 while the child is awake. Long-term studies show no difference in growth whether using daily meds or a holiday schedule. I recommend daily use.