Am I better to simply not allow play dates with this kid or should I mandate he takes his meds first?

My daughter (5) had a playdate with a neighborhood boy (9, I think). While outside she was sitting on a handlebar (like the gymnastic handles on a swingset) and he tied her hand to it. She couldn’t get down and if she slipped she wouldn’t even reach the ground - it would be bad.

I heard her, so I came over and that was the end and I got her down safely. The boy immediately apologized and said “I think my adhd got the best of me.” And said he did not take his meds that day.

Going forward, I was prepared to simply say no more play dates with this boy. As a group with 100% parent coverage, okay, but not 1 on 1.

But now I’m wondering if I should somehow request to ensure he took his meds first and try again. In general, he’s a bit rough play with her and has done things like drive the play quad down the deck stairs etc. but my daughter does love playing with him.

Posted Jun 14, 2026, 12:10 PM UTC

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