Weighted blanket/vest/lap pads for ADHD?

[Anonymous]

My kid is 13 and currently not medicated. We are considering meds, mostly because we are at a point where we need him to be able to focus and stay on task at school – especially going into HS next year - something has got to change. Before we try meds, we are exploring other options though, just to make sure we’ve done our research and tried what we can before we resort to meds.

I’ve been reading about a lot of great benefits for ADHD kids who use weighted vests or lap pads at school. Not sure my kid would be on board with a vest, but I’m confident my kid would use a lap pad without complaint. I’m also considering a weighted blanket for at home. Has anyone tried this as a treatment for ADHD? I’d love to hear from anyone with experience or knowledge on this.

[Anonymous]

My 14 yo son has a weighted blanket. Like many people with ADHD, trouble falling asleep and/or disrupted sleep is an issue and the weighted blanket helps with that.

It however, does nothing for his ability to maintain focus on things he finds boring, such as school. He is on stimulant medication for that, which he takes weekdays only.

[Anonymous]

Mine DS, also 13, has a lot of great stuff at home, including something that he spins on (I think it's called an space board) plus weighted blankets and a trampoline but like PP said, this doesn't translate to school. He gets some accommodations at school - like he is allowed water breaks and can get up and leave to use the bathroom, thereby taking another movement break. But, he also takes medication to help focus at school.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My kid is 13 and currently not medicated. We are considering meds, mostly because we are at a point where we need him to be able to focus and stay on task at school – especially going into HS next year - something has got to change. Before we try meds, we are exploring other options though, just to make sure we’ve done our research and tried what we can before we resort to meds.

I’ve been reading about a lot of great benefits for ADHD kids who use weighted vests or lap pads at school. Not sure my kid would be on board with a vest, but I’m confident my kid would use a lap pad without complaint. I’m also considering a weighted blanket for at home. Has anyone tried this as a treatment for ADHD? I’d love to hear from anyone with experience or knowledge on this.

Op, a weighted blanket etc. isn't going to cut it. Please talk to an actual psychiatrist about your medication options.