3 year old normal?

My 3 year old child seems to be having an increase in behavioral problems at day care.  He has been actually doing better with listening to me at home but they tell me that he is uncontrollable lately at school.  They say that it seems like he has too much energy to sit still and has a hard time listening to their instructions.   I know that my son is active, and he is this way out of school too, but they asked me today if he has been checked for any disorders.  This disturbs me because I don't think he has any mental problems I just think he's three. He has good and bad days usually but has been a little hyper.  I admit I may have had a hand at spoiling and need some suggestions.  Do you think something could be wrong?

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Often such feedback from day care or pre-school is worth listening to, because those folks (if they are seasoned) have such a range of experiences from which to draw. It can be hard to discern at times what might be difficult but nonetheless 'normal' behavior vs. symptoms of a disorder. Here's what I'd suggest: (a) obtain details about your son's functioning at school; the particulars are important; (b) have a consult with a child mental health clinician who can both 'eyeball' your son and have a discussion with you about him.

[kidcare]

By law the public school system,upon parental request and consent, must provide FREE developmental screenings/evaluations.  These developmental areas should address speech, hearing, vision, socialization, motor, and cognitive skills.  If the child meets the eligibility criteria, they must provide services, even for 3 and 4 yr olds.  Go online to IDEA Part B services and this will let you know what you should expect.  If you want services, contact your local school district's Special Education/Services coordinator(if they have someone else handling 3&4 yr old svcs they should tell you) to request a screening.  Remember to review IDEA because the school has a timeframe of compliance.  If you go this route, you need to know the law and be your son's best advocate!  As a parent you have alot of rights, just stand up for them.  Good luck!