Our son, Lane, just returned from an excited week of tracking wolves in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan on the North County Trail. Sometimes, because of his ADHD, organized events can be frustrating for him. He sees himself as a capable and intelligent individual with the right to express his opinion and have it considered. Others frequently see him as a disrespectful know-it-all kid with ADHD who can’t sit still or follow directions.

We were trying a new summer camp that I just located on the internet at a college located in Houghton, Michigan. Super Daddy was concerned that Lane might actually be eaten by wolves or bears during one of his disappearing acts. His other concern was that Lane wouldn’t have a good time because adults tend to underestimate his abilities and therefore, restrict his actions.

Apparently, we found a good fit for Lane. He told us that one of his counselors, a guy with a 12 inch, braided goatee named AJ, referred to him during the week as Ninja. Lane was able to disappear and reappear without being seen or heard. When the counselors realized that he could shimmy up any tree in seconds that had at least a two-inch diameter they figured he could get to safety.

The same counselor let him traverse a narrow precipice covered in algae that was under a waterfall with a slight warning, not to fall. Not sure, I would have allowed that one, but it made Lane feel independent, grownup, and respected.

He received the usual warnings about handling snakes, his real passion, but he blew those off. He was pretty excited about the plaster of Paris molds he had made, one of a bear print and one of a wolf print. He also came home with the phone numbers of two girls who were also tracking wolves last week, no guys numbers though...

Ironically, he doesn't come across as a lady's man, and has yet to actually have a girl friend. Must just be a chip-off-the-old-block, Super Daddy was voted the most flirtatious of his graduating class.

When asked if he would like to return to the camp next year, I received a, “definitely!” What did he really like about the camp? Here is your teenage, 14-year-old, thinking at its grandest. The first and last day of camp were spent in the dorms. While in the dorms, there are unlimited supplies of “free” soft serve ice cream, pizza, and soda – including Mountain Dew - and internet cafes where gaming is allowed.


ADHD Meet Genius
Should I Try Medication Now or Wait
ADHD Don't Babysit
Time Alone? – Living with FAS and ADHD

Photo Credit, MTU Youth Summer Programs 2007