Does your DC have ADHD and play Sports?

[Strawberryicecreamz]

Eldest DC has recently been confirmed ADHD and also has Epilepsy. He has bundles and bundles of excitable energy but zero concentration or ability to complete even the most basic of tasks. DH and I thought enrolling him in Sports (of his choice) would be a good move to put his energy to good use and hopefully fire a passion for something. He is a very active, fit and healthy 10 year old. We've just returned home from a 'trial' session of chosen Sport and I'm struggling to hold back the tears. His behaviour during the session was shocking, not following any rules or instructions, loud outbursts of screeching and shouting, being very heavy handed and forceful with the equipment. I could see how much the instructor was struggling with him in comparison to the other Children. But what absolutely broke my heart was that DC was having the best time, he was so happy after the session and can't wait to go back. We've tried so many activities like this and they all end eventually because he's lost in his own little world and doesn't follow any instructions, therefore doesn't progress at all.
I'm waffling now but has anyone else been in a similar situation?

Is that behaviour unusual for him?

@UniversalTruth He's only like that when he's very excited and having a good time, there's no aggression in him at all, he's just very 'caught up' in enjoying the activity if that makes any sense!

Have you tried any SN clubs/sessions?

DS2 has ADHD and lots of sport/exercise/activity is what keeps him regulated. We have been lucky his coaches are supportive.

@Headfirstintothewild Thanks for the tip, no I haven't actually. A real newbie to our situation so I didn't even realise that was a thing! How fantastic, I'll definitely be looking into it

You may have to travel further than you otherwise would but there’s lots of disability sport out there now. It isn’t always easy to find out about and. For example, if DS is interested in football, the teams/sessions are often called ability counts teams/sessions. The local FA should be able to sign post you. If it is cricket, look at Super 1s (starts from 12 but some have sessions for younger DC). There’s often things like disability ski sessions, climbing sessions, gymnastics too.

It must have been difficult for you to watch, but some of your comments are contradictory. He can't have ignored all instruction if he had the equipment, even if he was heavy handed!

I would take into account the fact this was the first session so maybe he was anxious and excited. Assuming his understanding matches his age, I would be saying something to him about how you think the sessions could be good for him but his behaviour needs to keep everyone safe and that means his listening and using the equipment carefully. And then you can talk about ideas to help him manage his impulsivity like running on the spot whilst listening, or taking deep breaths if he feels over excited.

Ultimately, it's up to the session leader to decide if your ds' behaviour is something she/he can manage. If they can't, then explore SEN groups or other sessions that might cope. But if they say they're happy for him to try again then I kindly recommend you try to relax as he may well pick up on your anxiety. This is advice I give myself and constantly fail at though.