Recently, my son received a heartfelt letter from one of his elementary school teachers, and its timing couldn’t have been more perfect. The teacher took the initiative to express gratitude for the awareness videos my son has been posting about ADHD on YouTube.
In his letter, he wrote:
“I came across your videos on the My Little Champions channel while researching ways to support diverse learners. Even educators need to expand their understanding sometimes. Your insights were incredibly helpful. You articulated feelings like loneliness and frustration so clearly. I particularly appreciated your message about the importance of positive reinforcement from teachers when students try their best. My favorite part? When you said, ‘I think with my feelings and see with my heart.’” — Mr. F
He concluded his thoughtful note with this uplifting message:
“I’m thrilled to have discovered your videos and learned what it’s like to experience the world through your eyes, Alex! Thank you for sharing your perspective!” — Mr. F
This letter arrived just as whispers among some parents at my son’s school began to surface. They claimed that I was pressuring Alex to create these videos, suggesting he would someday regret such exposure.
Regret what, exactly? Regret assisting over 7 million viewers in understanding the realities of ADHD? Regret enlightening educators like Mr. F about effective strategies for supporting children with ADHD? Regret initiating a global pen pal program for kids with ADHD, fostering friendships and self-worth? Regret simply being himself?
These parents do not know me or my son. Their children aren’t even friends with him. So why do they feel entitled to judge our family like a clique of immature teenagers? It’s time to mature, ladies!
Alex is fully aware of the positive impact his ADHD awareness videos have on others. He understands that he is making a difference for families grappling with ADHD across the globe, and he takes pride in that. It takes immense courage to candidly share personal experiences related to ADHD, and I commend him for his bravery.
For the record, I have never once pressured him into creating these videos. I have consistently reassured him that if he ever wanted to stop or remove his videos, I would support that choice without hesitation. His feelings are paramount.
To those who suggest Alex will regret making these videos when he’s older, I ask: Why? Should he feel ashamed of having ADHD? Should he refrain from educating others about it? Instead of celebrating his honesty and courage, why try to undermine him? That won’t work.
Families dealing with ADHD often become advocates and fighters. When someone attempts to extinguish the light of a child with ADHD, they will respond with resilience and solidarity—like a village. (My blog’s name, My Little Champions, reflects this spirit!)
A significant part of the issue is that these parents likely lack personal experience with ADHD or connections to those who do. Their immature behavior only underscores their indifference. I feel sympathy for them and their children, as they may grow up to mirror this judgmental mindset, dismissing anyone who is different. In contrast, children who learn to appreciate diversity will thrive.
There are remarkable adult YouTubers with ADHD who are actively educating others and supporting families. One such individual is Lisa Carter from How to Thrive with ADHD, who has amassed a significant following due to her candid approach. She is an inspiration to many, including my son. It makes me wonder how she would respond to those doubting the value of Alex’s advocacy.
As for me, I will continue to provide my son with the platform he needs to share his voice and support his endeavors. I will always be proud of him and his journey with ADHD. Thank you to everyone who has watched, shared, and supported Alex’s ADHD awareness videos. Your engagement has transformed a small spark into a powerful flame. Let’s keep that fire burning!
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Summary
This article discusses a mother’s unwavering support for her son’s YouTube channel focused on ADHD awareness, amidst criticism from other parents. The mother highlights the positive impact her son has had on educating others about ADHD and emphasizes the importance of acceptance and understanding for children who are different.