It’s so important to understand this complicated
medical diagnosis of ADHD. With the right information, you as a parent can be an effective advocate for your child.
Let’s talk about the FIVE prevalent myths around ADHD that can definitely impact needed support.
- If a child with ADHD is getting passing grades, he/she does not meet the criteria for a 504 or IEP.
TRUTH: Grades alone do not determine eligibility for support in school.
- Schools can recommend and also mandate the use of ADHD meds.
TRUTH: Schools cannot demand that the child take medication. This is a medical decision between family and physician. They ARE mandated to support this child academically regardless of medication.
- Following the 504 is optional and is up to the teacher.
TRUTH: Both the IEP and 504 MUST be followed at all times! It is not up to the teacher to decide if and when each accommodation in the 504 is followed.
- ADHD is NOT a disability. Many of the behaviors often shown in the classroom are intentional and should not be tolerated.
TRUTH: ADHD is one of the most researched of all psychiatric disabilities. It is a disability listed under OHI, other health impairment, under special education law.
- Schools may require parents to pay for a full neuropsychiatric evaluation prior to the school doing a psychoeducational evaluation.
TRUTH: If the school would ask for a medical or psychiatric evaluation, it would be up to the school to pay for this. But in addition, the school is mandated to support your child in areas of suspected disability.
It is important to fully understand responsibilities of the school in the area of supporting your child with ADHD. You and your child has rights and it’s so important to advocate for those rights to give your child the ability to succeed and have a strong self-esteem.
