Sahmamma, Yes, I do. I know EXACTLY how you feel. The arguing, defiance, anger out of nowhere, distractions, strong will, all of it.
Just today, I introduced our new school plan page and schedule. Oh my. At least my son expressed his dislike of it in a respectful way. That is a HUGE step.
I know people say training and habits and all, but they have not parented a child with ADHD. I don’t mean to sound upset, but I just know some people don’t understand how hard it is.
I told my DH tonight that I want to go gluten-free. Have you tried that?
I know I have gluten sensitivities and I suspect both of our bio sons do as well. My sister does and she was recently diagnosed with lymphoma. Well, lo and behold, there is a link b/t undiagnosed celiac disease and lymphoma. Before getting diagnosed she had a lot of signs of another auto-immune disease, whose name is escaping me at the moment.
Anyway, yes, I can totally empathize with your struggles. I DREAD some days. And some days it is literally putting one foot in front of the other. If you do the games, make them VERY SHORT and yes, do allow him to win more than not.
As for the little ones, yes, I have 6 children and 3 younger than the child with ADHD. It is very hard some days. Big {{{HUGS}}}