Hidden Treasures: Parents Describe the Special Qualities They Love Best in Their Kids
ADHD gets a bad rap, but anyone who knows and loves a child with the condition understands that there’s much more to them than meets the eye. Here, parents talk about the most endearing qualities in their quirky kids — from their joie de vivre to their knack for coming up with silly songs.
“My son’s ability to see when I am losing it and loving me anyway.”
—Patty Fox, Sturgis, South Dakota
“My child reflects on her behavior and apologizes when her impulsivity has caused bad feelings between us.”
—Joana, Florida
“My son has so much empathy for others. When he was in second grade, he organized a fundraiser at his school for a child with leukemia. He spoke to all of the classes and motivated the children to bring in donations. Kids were raiding their piggy banks! I had no idea he was doing it until it was over.”
—Leisa Glantz, Raleigh, North Carolina
“He has a lot of enthusiasm, creativity, and drive to do the things he’s passionate about.”
—Linda Kelly, Oakland, California
“He has such a good, compassionate heart. He is always thinking of others.”
—Brandy, Pennsylvania
[Free Download: 25 Things to Love About ADHD]
“My son loves to be outside working with machines, like tractors. He wants to be a farmer and talks about it a lot.”
—Scott Deetz, Dayton, Ohio
“All five of my children have ADHD. They are all very creative and most are easygoing.”
—Karin, San Antonio, Texas
“He is very funny. He has a wonderful imagination, and he makes up little songs on the spot that are brilliant.”
—Suzanne, Jackson Heights, New York
“She accepts everyone and is non-judgmental.”
—Kim Carrington, Discovery Bay, California
“Her tender heart — it is amazing how much she cares about animals.”
—Caralynn Vaughn, North Carolina
[Why Praise Is So Important for Children with ADHD]
“He is full of joy whenever he can climb, jump, and be free.”
—An ADDitude Reader
“I can’t pick one endearing quality. He has a great sense of humor and great athletic ability. I love the way he connects with me when he asks for a hug. He is very kind. I could go on and on.”
—Stephanie Bailey, British Columbia, Canada
“Thinking outside the box…sometimes waaaay outside!”
—Melanie Dillon, Mundelein, Illinois
“He has lots of funny ideas that usually involve pulleys and strings.”
—Isabelle, California
“My son cares about other people. Elderly people love to spend time with him. He’s patient and will sit with them for a long time.”
—Kathy Servedio, Duluth, Georgia
“Her enthusiasm for life. She seems to be all-in all the time.”
—An ADDitude Reader
