My son is 13 and was diagnosed with ADD two years ago. He is working hard and I am very grateful that he is now getting the help he needs (new school system). He is a very friendly kid, but lacks close friends. He spends his weekends at his Dad's, 30 miles from here. He rarley takes advantage of opportunities to meet new friends, preferring to stay at home with his Dad. I know he has a few friends at school. How does it effect a childs social development, if that child spends most of his time alone?

As you seem to know intuitively, the answer to your question is "not good for healthy development".  However, based on what you have shared, it would seem that taking all into account that you state here, like:  finally getting the help he needs, that's positive, but the impact of many years of not being diagnosed properly may have a negative impact; being in a single parent family also has an impact; and age 13 in and of itself is a difficult time  for teenagers under the best of circumstances;  spending time with his Dad is good, but what is the quality of the time spent?  Does he do activities, physical, cultural or intellectual?  Or is he in his room left to his own source of entertainment, whatever that may be?

This is, as I have said a time that is critical in the developmental needs that he faces in the years ahead.  I would suggest that you and his father find ways to stimulate him, socially, emotionally and physically.  Help him get involved in sports or acti.... Read More