ADHD OR ASPERGER'S SYNDROME

[Bryann]

We have a 7 yr. old boy in the 1st grade.  He was diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 4.  I don't feel like we were taken very seriously about the problems he has and have again started the process of trying to get an accurate diagnosis.  He loves to read but almost refuses to write.  When he does you almost can't read it.  His teacher says his small motor skills are severly behind.  The teacher insist that his behavior is to get attention,  we don't agree.  He "zones out" occasionally and often does not appear to be listening.  He is immature and his teacher says he is not sorry for his behavior.  He shares his knowledge with everyone and whenever he feels like it, and he remembers everything, to the point that he often cries at night because his mind is going too fast and he can't slow it down. He says he gets "bad" thoughts in his head and can't stop them.  He has no concept of social rules, telling him that something is or is not acceptable behavior means absolutely nothing to him.  When given the opportunity in class he will choose a puzzle and go off by himself but the minute another child joins him he becomes out of control.  He talks constantly, even to himself and is always making "funny noises". We try to just accept him as he is but other people don't understand and we don't know what to tell them.  Other teachers in his school have told his teacher that he needs a good spanking and that they hope he does not end up in their class.  I am looking for advice on getting him the help he needs in a timely manner. I want to get the necessary testing and not just a quick answer.  I am at a loss as to what to ask for and where to turn.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Bryann,

The behaviors you describe can be manifestations of a variety of emotional conditions, not only ADHD or Asperger's Disorder. It is very likely, though, that if your son does display ADHD, he manifests some other condition(s) as well. It definitely makes sense to obtain both a thorough mental health evaluation (including psychological testing), as well as occupational therapy evaluation, at the very least. You are correct in suspecting that your son probably is affected by more than simply ADHD.

[Eileen]

Much of what the doctor has suggested can and should be done through the school district.  Write your concerns and send them to the district requesting testing and evaluation.  Your son deserves to be treated with more compassion and professionalism than he is getting from his teacher. More complete information about the testing/evaluation process can be found at www.ldonline.com