Title: The Capsule Conundrum: Two Kids, Two Journeys with ADHD Medication (with a Teenage Twist!)

You'd think that getting two children to take the same medication, in the same format, would be a straightforward affair, right? Wrong! Welcome to the world of parenting children with autism, where even the simplest tasks can become epic battles of wills.

Both my kids are on Ritalin, now in long-acting capsule form. My son, the younger of the two, has transitioned seamlessly. He pops the capsule in his mouth, washes it down with a mouthful of milk, and that's it. Easy peasy.

My daughter, however, is a completely different story. From the tender age of seven months, she's battled a hypersensitive gag reflex. Getting her to swallow a tablet, let alone a capsule, has been an uphill battle worthy of an Everest expedition. Years of coaxing, guiding, and yes, even the occasional meltdown (hers, not mine!), have marked this daily struggle.

There have been times when I've celebrated a seemingly successful swallow, only to find the capsule days later tucked away in some obscure corner of the house. Behind the bedside table, under the sofa cushions—these capsules have seen more hiding places than a fugitive on the run. And let's not forget the added layer of complexity brought on by her ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder). The resistance to taking medication often manifests in explosive outbursts, complete with shouting, screaming, and even violent behavior. I've often braced myself for a visit from the police, convinced that the neighbours must think I'm running a torture chamber, not a household.

We've tried every trick in the book. Mixing the medication in food, drinks, even opening the capsules and sprinkling the beads into yoghurt—all epic fails. At one point, she insisted on counting to twenty in French before even considering opening her mouth. The lengths we've gone to could fill a comedy sketch show.

But amidst the chaos and frustration, there's been a silver lining. As she matures, the daily battles have become less frequent. The screaming matches have subsided, replaced by a grudging acceptance. I'm starting to forget the years of struggle, focusing instead on the progress we've made. It's a testament to her resilience, and a reminder that even the most challenging hurdles can eventually be overcome.

Of course, this is just a prelude to the teenage years, where I can only imagine the new and creative ways she'll find to challenge the system. But for now, I'm savouring this period of relative calm, cautiously optimistic that the worst of the capsule conundrum is behind us. (Famous last words, perhaps!)

The capsule conundrum has been a defining aspect of our journey with autism and ADHD. It's a story of perseverance, adaptation, and the unwavering love of a parent determined to help her child thrive. And while the echoes of past battles may linger, and the teenage years loom ahead like a mysterious uncharted territory, I'm filled with hope and gratitude for the calmer waters we currently navigate.