Parents of Children with ADHD Support Group
This community is designed as an open forum where the parents and guardians of children with ADHD (Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) can give and receive support, as well as discuss ideas, techniques, concerns, surprises, and challenges they may face with their children.
My son, who has a lot of difficulties with self-esteem and with academics, excels at running. He's 10 years old and has been on x-country and track & field teams with his school for over 4 years. He was the only one from his whole entire school last year chosen to run an 800M race - which is something to be VERY proud of! Running is so good for him - for his extra energy, for his participation on a team, and most of all, for his self-esteem!
Now, the problem: Cross country practice started this morning and he told me that he wants to quit. He says he's done it long enough and he doesnt want to do it this year. I just don't know what to do. I've never ever been the parent who pushes her child to pursue something, BUT, I do know not only how great it is for him, but how much he does genuinely love it. And I seriously think if he doesn't do it, the day that race day comes, he's going to regret it. Not to mention, that we all know how important it is for our kids to have that interaction with other kids outside of school hours, and how they need activities to keep them busy and on the right path.
I just don't know what to do. Should I push him to continue it, because I know he loves it and its a good thing for him? Or should I just tell him that it's up to him? Does anyone have any experience with that? I'm at a loss! I don't want him to resent me for it, no matter which way it goes. This morning he told me he was only doing it for me and that he was going because I was forcing him (which I didn't.. up until this morning he wanted to do it.) ARGHHH what do I do?!
Now, the problem: Cross country practice started this morning and he told me that he wants to quit. He says he's done it long enough and he doesnt want to do it this year. I just don't know what to do. I've never ever been the parent who pushes her child to pursue something, BUT, I do know not only how great it is for him, but how much he does genuinely love it. And I seriously think if he doesn't do it, the day that race day comes, he's going to regret it. Not to mention, that we all know how important it is for our kids to have that interaction with other kids outside of school hours, and how they need activities to keep them busy and on the right path.
I just don't know what to do. Should I push him to continue it, because I know he loves it and its a good thing for him? Or should I just tell him that it's up to him? Does anyone have any experience with that? I'm at a loss! I don't want him to resent me for it, no matter which way it goes. This morning he told me he was only doing it for me and that he was going because I was forcing him (which I didn't.. up until this morning he wanted to do it.) ARGHHH what do I do?!
My son wanted to quit karate out of no where recently but then he had a great class and his instructor complimented him a lot and now it's all lovin karate again! Give it a little time and maybe when he does good at a race he will remember that he loves it
I'd say go with your gut feeling. Is there any way you could work something out with the coach where he could be on for a month and then re-evaluate? Maybe he does just need a break, or maybe he's just having a down week or two. I'd also consult his coach. Could be there's some conflict or something else going on, like kids picking on him, etc.
After you've talked to the coach perhaps you'll have a little more clarity and a few more options.
HOpe it works out for you both!