Q
My sixth-grader was tested by the school resource teacher and diagnosed with a learning disability in written expression. He always liked school until last year, when his grades went from A's and B's to C's and D's. He has a "don't care" attitude about school, but he's extremely bright and loves to read huge chapter books. Now the teachers are suggesting ADHD. He stares into space at school and doesn't finish his assignments on time. What should I do?
A
Although a teacher can give you important information about how your son is doing in school, she can't make a "diagnosis" of a learning disability or an attention deficit disorder. Both diagnoses require a comprehensive evaluation by professionals who will administer a battery of tests plus a clinical interview. There could be so many different reasons behind your son's change in attitude. It's important to find out what's going on so that you can ask for the right kinds of supports for him in school. I would talk to your school guidance counselor, school psychologist, or principal and initiate a formal evaluation procedure. Once you have more information, you can learn about your options and make an informed decision about what to do next.
For more information about learning disabilities and attention deficit disorders, try these advocacy groups (some of them may even have branches within your community where you can get some direct support):
Learning Disabilities Association of America (1-888-300-6710)National Center for Learning Disabilities (1-800-575-7373)Schwab Foundation for LearningCoordinated Campaign for Learning Disabilities (1-888-GR8-MIND)Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (1-800-233-4050)