I know it sounds trite but it makes such a difference knowing you're not the only family where some days there can be yelling, hugging, tears, lost items, etc. - all in the space of 15 minutes! Both of our children have ADHD and are on Concerta and in therapy (elementary school and high school). My husband and I are self-diagnosed (but without a doubt) ADHDers too. We all know we need routines but it is not very easy to stick to the plan - though we make lots of efforts. Any ideas on how to remember the plan?? Both children are bright and athletic but struggle socially a lot of the time. Life can be crazy between all their activities (which they crave) and we both work full-time.

What holds us together is making sure we eat together most nights, lying time at night with our son, and me trying my best to be a peacemaker. Medicine makes a huge difference for our children too - especially the younger one. Good luck and I'm always open to ideas on how to manage the situation better.

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My family is also all ADHD: We call it the house of chaos. Generally speaking we don't have too many people over as they are generally overwhelmed by our mess, our creativity, and our intensity. All three of my children - 19,16, 10- are gifted LD with ADHD. The middle child is Aspergers. School is the killer. My Aspie girl will pick up a picture of herself at 4 and sigh and say "that's the last time I was happy". School has broken my children. I am a teacher myself - ( a really good one now that I have so much insight!!), and even so I find it difficult to get what I need from the school system. Our eldest has done quite well, and is in University. The Aspie and my 10 year old suffer everyday. The social issues are huge as well. We get support from Integra ( a community health org for families with LD children), see a psychiatrist, take meds., and do our best to stay afloat. I think if I didn't have ADHD myself, it would be impossible to keep it all going. As it is, I hate to be idle so I research while I watch tv., constantly looking for new things to try. I like the FlyLady, this magazine, LDonline, and the old Schwabb learning site that now has a new name. We've done sensory integration which was extremely helpful, special camps ( Camp Towhee in Haliburton ONtario) and specialized tutoring with Oxford Learning Centres ( this approach is the only way my younger two manage to stay afloat in school). My middle child, 16, is doing a co op placement - amazing. At home we constantly fight a losing battle with mess and clutter. No one seems to consistently remember to pick up after themselves and this is one area I simply do not seem able to make any progress.

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