A PEAK principals group has launched a blistering attack on parents, blaming them for the blowout in the number of children taking drugs for ADHD.

The primary principals accuse parents of “opting out of their responsibilities” by making drugs their first option – not a last resort – to help children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Primary Principals’ Association president Geoff Scott said schools across NSW were deeply worried about the trend of putting young children on powerful stimulants such as Ritalin.

“It’s a fact that prescriptions have escalated in recent years. Schools see this as a major problem . . . it’s too easy to prescribe medication rather than improve parenting skills,” he said.

“Parents are saying children – and it is mostly boys – are badly behaved at home and the school is saying the same, they are going to see the paediatrician and then popping some pills.” …

The principals’ criticism came as parents contacted The Daily Telegraph and talkback radio to accuse teachers of suggesting to parents that their children had ADHD and should be on Ritalin…

“If you have concerns about your child’s behaviour you should set up good discipline, look at nutritional issues and ensure your child has a good breakfast. Lock all of that in before making any diagnosis (of ADHD)…” …

Source: Daily Telegraph
http://www.news.com.au/dailytelegraph/story/0,22049,21631995-5001021,00.html