Behavior Improvements in affect thanks to the medication

I always celebrate the little things he does, but this one was a show stopper! Since starting his current placement, William has never had a whole week (5 days) of good behavior. We've tried diet, sensory vests, bumpy seats, fidget toys, weighted lap blankets, sensory breaks... (you name it, we've tried it). We were lucky to get 3 days a week with a good check mark AND he has a TSS. But this week, since starting medication (we didn't even inform his teachers that we started the meds so she has no idea) he finally got 5 good days in a row. He is usually dinged for not being able to sit still or not paying attention and not following directions. His teacher is quick to check these boxes if he does anything to hinder his education like not copying notes or just generally staring out of the window. This week, her comments were that William has been very good in class and is able to participate and keep up with other classmates. He is able to focus and retain the information given to him. He also is thriving with his personality and is able to express himself better when speaking to us and telling us about his day. On the weekends, we are not giving him the medication and letting him have a break. We totally see the difference from giving him meds to not having the medication. He is back to his old self, but at least we recognize it and see how it is helping him. We don't give him the maximum dose, but just enough to get him through his day. 

As his mom, I still have reservations about medicating my child for school, but I do see that he is much happier with his school and academic performance and he is so proud of himself. He is excited to do good in school and not to be so down on himself when he was trying so hard to concentrate. Sometimes he would tell us "my brain isn't working" and I would feel so bad for him knowing that he is trying is best but just not able to perform like he wanted to. The medication is helping him focus on the things he wants to accomplish instead of worrying about his movements and his behavior. We will continue to monitor his progress and not give him the medicine unless he really needs it. Now if we could just find a good placement for him, now that he's happy and thriving....... 

Life is never dull for this complex, sweet, and loving little man I am blessed to raise.