New to All This...

[natemomma27]

My (very soon to be) 4 y/o old is going through evaluations to diagnose a possible learning disability since he's exhibited some concerns in pre-school. The evaluator has said she's sure he has ADHD, but also shows some traits of a child with asperger's syndrome (sp). Since at this time, ADHD is the only 'definitive' diagnosis, I was wondering if some one could tell me some webistes, or books they have read to help them understand it all and how to help my son. Also, do you believe that 4 y/o may be too young to diagnose anything?

[SL345]

You definitely want to be cautious at this age regarding diagnoses. However, if a diagnosis helps to get your son help that is by far the most important thing. I agree with LRM, early intervention is key. Good books for preschoolers and young children on ADHD are: Shelley, the Hyperactive Turtle by Deborah M. Moss & Carol Schwartz and Eukee the Jumpy Jumpy Elephant by Clifford L. Corman, Esther Trevino & Richard Dimatteo.

[natemomma27]

thank you soo much!

[LRM1021]

If the only concerns are those of ADHD-type behavior, 4 is a little young in some people's opinions, but others think that 4 is ok for a diagnostic age. Since it seems like your son might have some other characteristics as well, it does not seem too young to me. Early intervention is the key to a lot of successful treatment.

Good websites--

CHADD.org
ADDitude

Books --
Taking Charge of ADHD

I can reccomend all of these -- very valuable resources.