There are so many concerns surrounding the diagnosis and treatment of ADD/ADHD that parents must be knowledgeable and cautious. It is usually the school that approaches parents to have an assessment for ADD/ADHD and parents often feel pressured in having the traditional drug treatment to 'correct' their child's behavior.

What should parents do if the school identifies a child with potentially having ADD/ADHD?

Have the school put their concerns and directions in writing. Hold them accountable.
If the school tells you that your child needs medication to control his or her behavior, remind them that medical help does not necessarily mean taking medication.
If you are told to sign a release for your child's medical records, ask to see that law in writing.
Whenever you have a school conference or go before a school review board, record that meeting on a tape recorder. The recorder should be in plain sight. If you are told that the meeting is confidential, remember that confidentiality is your child's right -- not the school's right.
Children who have an ADD/ADHD diagnosis normally have an above-average IQ. Ask the school why it is so difficult for them to teach the smartest kids in school.
The federal government allots over $2 billion to local school systems under the Individual Development Assistance Act of 1985. Ask the school officials how much money their school and school system gets when a child is coded as needing special education services.
Find out what percentage of students in the school system are taking ADD/ADHD medication. The average number is between 3-5%.

ADD & ADHD - Possible Causes of ADD/ADHD

Medication Concerns

Special Education - Learning Disabilities

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Teenagers with ADD and ADHD: A Guide for Parents and Professionals

by Chris A. Zeigler Dendy

This book gives parents insight on everything from understanding the diagnosis to treatment options, and from behavioral and academic issues, to parent involvement and self-advocacy. In addition, the book covers coexisting disorders such as learning disabilities, depression, anxiety, Tourette syndrome, and Asperger syndrome.

The Gift Of ADHD: How To Transform Your Child's Problems Into Strengths

by Lara Honos-Webb

The clinical studies and experiences of the author of this compassionate book suggest that many of the traits that label kids with ADHD may be an expression of deeper gifts: powerful imagination, searching insight, and unusual intuition.