This is ADD for goodness sake. They are not going to be handicapped if they dont medicate themselves. We are all held back in life in some way or another. They need to have a better understanding of the wonderfully unique qualities they posess because of it. I am not saying that it is not a difficult thing to deal with, I am just expressing my feeling that I think stimulant drugs are NOT a good idea for CHILDREN. They can be a great option for adults. I just think in the end they will do more harm to the developing brain than good.
There are a lot of fabulous things to be admired about ADD as well. Some of the most creative people in the world suffer from ADD. Children with ADDare often far more resiliant than others. They are often far more compassionate as well. They have a fabulous hyper-focus ( when its something they enjoy doing) I wish there were more people that could look at the up-side of things as well. Instead of "If he doesnt take his medication, nobody can stand him"
I have to believe that there is an alternative to medication because my son definately has the ADD/ADHD gene. Luckily I get to stay at home with him, so maybe that will help.