no diagnosis

[loudolaili]

my son has a IQ of 79 according to WISC IV tests. I am being told that his learning difficulties are due to his low iq and can not be diagnosed with a LD due to this. Is this right?

[aokjen]

Always, Get a second opinion. This may cost you some $$$. However your child could very easily be like my son. Was given an IQ. Score of 70. By a professional at the school. So I said I do not think so. I got a second opinion. Paid for a test myself. They said he did have a low IQ. But caused by ADHD.

Now he does go to special education at school. He also goes to regular classroom. He takes medication and shown improvement. Recently re-tested at above 100. So If someone told you your child had cancer you would get a second opinion? Why would you not do so with your sons academic future.

[Sandman2]

  I think that is an excellent idea.  Best Wishes!

[loudolaili]

The test was done by an educational psychologist. He is ten and he has always had problems at school - concentration, following instructions and generally always bottom of class in reading and writing. He does learn but at a very slow rate.

Thanks for replying, I think I have come to the conclusion that I need to concentrate on getting him the help he needs to get through life rather than just focussing on academic success.

[Sandman2]

   I believe so.  However, the test needs to be valid.  With a child with ADHD for example, its hard to get a good score due to the child's concentration problems.  A good psyc that gives the child plenty of time can get fairly valid scores.  If the child is just taking a timed test with little one on one interaction - I would question the results.  The age of the child can also be a factor.
  I guess a good question is what do the child's teachers think.  Do they believe in that IQ?  That really is very low.  I think with a IQ that low, the child would have problems just doing basic living skills, but I would like to look that up to be sure.  
  So what grade is your son in?  Has he always had problems in school?