ADHD diagnosed. Long and lots of questions

[Pyjamaface]

DS is 8 and has just received an ADHD diagnosis. It was very quick and has left me a bit reeling and I don't know what I am supposed to be doing next.

His school have been amazing, from the first GP visit they have been trying different things to help him, wobble stools, fidget toys, allowing him to withdraw when he needs to, extra TA support when possible etc.
Of course it is now coming up to the end of term so not really any time to discuss options etc right now but I do plan on asking for a meeting with his new teachers at the start of the new term. DS knows both teachers and they know him, one of them is the SENCO and the other already has DS for maths as he is in her extension group. I presume it would still be best to get something formal written down for him but from reading it seems that not every child is eligible for an EHCP so do I push for one? or just keep to more regular meetings with the school and see how we go?

The paediatrician has given us lots and lots of reading, has made a referral to the ADHD nursing team, has discussed melatonin and said if we decide to try it he will be happy to prescribe it, also has referred us to a waiting list for an evening seminar. Next appointment with him will be October-ish but can obviously call him at anytime if we have questions.

Is it worth giving Melatonin a try? I understand that it will only, possibly, help DS fall asleep faster than the 2/3 hours it takes now but a lot of stuff I have read says it will only help by around 15-20 mins?

DS is aware that he has been diagnosed, we have hidden nothing from him and explained that we are not trying to change him, he is amazing just as he is but that we are trying to find ways for him to cope better when he gets upset/frustrated. However, for a boy that will very happily learn about all sorts of things related to the body, he is reluctant to read or watch anything about ADHD either with us or by himself. I know we cant force him but are there any websites or videos anybody can recommend?

My head is just whirling all over the place. From first GP visit to diagnosis has been less than a year and I have read so much that I just don't think I am taking any of it in anymore

In a similar position here with the same ages child. The only part I can comment on with any experience is the melatonin. Once he's taken it. He's is generally asleep in 20-30 mins rather than 2-3 hours. It doesn't keep him asleep - it just calms his brain and lets his body realise it's time for sleep. Am considering the time-release one, to see if we can all get a decent night's sleep for a change!

Thanks, might give it melatonin a go then and see how he gets on over the summer til the next appointment. The thought of not having to spend 3 hours sitting upstairs is very appealing from a selfish stand point

Kids need sleep! That's my justification I do think it's made a difference here. They're so full on during the day, you need some you-time in the evening, especially if the night's are broken too. I know some people are against it, but it's working for us for now. I get the strawberry flavoured gummy tablets online from Biovea.

ChipInTheSugar what dose are the gummies?

Hello, we are moving to Barnes/Richmond area and would appreciate any advice on the most understanding and caring primary school for a bright ADHD boy. Thank you!

Sorry, I think I jumped in on an already thread. I am happy to help I
I have two boys with ADHD and ADHD/ASD.
I have been told by our doctor that melatonin should only be taken temporarily as it stops the body from producing its own melatonin.

Both my boys are taking Guanfacine (a non stimulant after trying lots of stimulants!) as for their hyperactivity and it helps with sleep too. Very strict bedtime routine have helped through the years aswell.

He won't automatically need an EHC Plan, no. Indeed, ADHD on it's own probably wouldn't get him one, but that's fine as he probably wouldn't need one.
The schools should be recording the differentiation they are making for him, and, if they feel he is not achieving all he should, then the plan, or set of targets they would like him to achieve.

There is no longer a set name for this plan though. Under the 2001 Code of Practice, it would have been and IEP (Individual Education Plan), but, under the 2014 Code of Practice, there was no document specified, so all schools have made their own choices as to how differentiation is recorded, but if must be recorded somehow.

If the adjustments you mention (fiddle toys etc) mean he can access the curriculum and make steady progress, then he might not have personal targets - they might just record the adjustments the adults make to ensure he can access everything at school.