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Parents of children with attention deficit disorder are eager to help their kids foster friendships. But when it comes to sleepovers and other overnight stays with friends or relatives, parents worry that their ADHD kids' good behavior will disappear when the sun goes down. It's normal to worry that your ADDer will be hard to handle or feel homesick or abandoned.

With the right preparation, even the most fragile ADHD child can enjoy a successful sleepover away from home. Several issues should first be considered:

Know your child's maturity and experience

Youngsters with ADHD tend to be less mature, more impulsive and less attentive to social cues than other kids their age. There's no specific age at which it's okay. Many eight-year-olds do just fine, although some do better hosting other children in their own homes before venturing away themselves.

Consider your child's prior experiences before determining her readiness for an overnight stay. Some children are old hands at being away from home, having spent time with grandparents or aunts and uncles. Others have rarely been separated from their parents. For these kids, a gradual progression from overnights with relatives to overnights with friends is recommended.

Know your child's willingness and flexibility

Some children with ADHD are outgoing and eager for adventure. Others are homebodies. If your child shows no interest in an overnight stay, don't push him. Wait until the time is right.