ADHD and Christmas - A Great Combo

ADHD and Christmas make a great combination. No, seriously. It is one of the few times a year when "Bob" can let loose and be himself without having to be censored or held back by me. Or his ADHD diagnosis. Most of the time, Bob and I worry about school, homework, etc. But, Christmas is the time of year when none of that matters and we're both reminded of how fortunate we are regardless of the effect ADHD has on him.

I love the excitement in his eyes and the joy he experiences each day leading up to Christmas. He becomes a regular kid - excited, eager and super-ready for the holiday. Bob's spirit uplifts my own and brings me into the holiday mood.

ADHD Blends into Christmas Festivities

ADHD didn't take the lead this holiday. Bob did. He shone bright like the shining star on our tree. Bob took initiative to bring out, set up and decorate our holiday tree (with a little bit of help from mom). After it was done, he took this picture. Bob was SO proud and I was, too. After all, it was the first time I realized that Bob's ADHD took a hike for the holidays.

Christmas is stressful enough - making a list, shopping, decorating, planning, etc. Throw in a full-time job, a child with ADHD and co-parenting... well, it can turn into a disaster very quickly. But, it doesn't have to.

There were no disasters. Just blessings and joy and gifts and fun. Bob's ADHD disappeared. It melted away into the spirit of Christmas. It made an appearance at church (which he doesn't like much lately), but took off once we hit a friend's holiday party afterward. Bob ran around with the other kids, played board games and hide-and-seek. And I didn't worry so much. We were both comfortable celebrating a happy holiday with Bob being himself - an amazing kid. This was probably our best Christmas to date. And I'm looking forward to so many more.

Lesson Learned: ADHD doesn't always take a front seat. Christmas is just one of those days that allows for excitement, hyperactivity and inattentiveness (or changing focus a million times a day). It's okay for Bob to have ADHD. And for Christmas, it is a welcome guest. A belated Christmas to all!