he just "can't help it"

[busymommy2]

My 7 year old son has already been catagorized as "gifted" but we aren't feeling like this is a gift at all. He  really struggles socially and has difficulties sitting still, staying quiet and respecting others' personal space. He makes odd sounds and inappropriate gestures fequently throughout the day. Our psychologist has said that he has social anxieties stemming from his "always thinking" mode but it seems like more than that to us as parents and his teaching team. He has a wonderful teacher who is very patient and understanding and lucky enough for us has a son with similar qualities to our little guy. She is also suggestting that there is more to our son's behavior issues than social anxieties. We just don't know how to deal with things or how to find out what is going on with him to help him better cope. He says he knows he shouldn't behave this way but he can't stop himself. And, without a formal dignosis and write up there is nothing to help us when he goes to his new school next year. Any suggestions?
Thanks

[specialmom]

busymommy, that is exactly why I pursued evalutions and treatment for my boy.  It wasn't for me but for him.  The look on his face at school when I observed told me all I needed to know and that was that I had to do something.  I've been on a mission ever since.  Occupational therapy has done wonders.  I will tell you that if your child does have sensory issues--------------  addressing his nervous system will make them better.  My son had a lot of "regulation/modulation issues".  With his nervous system in a better place, he coped much better.  I can offer you hope because my son is doing really well now.  

If you feel your son needs to "wake up" before school----------  try doing some animal walks.  The crab for sure, bear, snake, leap frog, kangaroo, etc.  We have a little mini trampoline that is great for jumping on right before school.  (You could use a matress on the floor too.  I got  our mini trampoline for about 30 bucks at K Mart.)  You could play "push over" in which you have him go up to a wall and try to 'push it over' by pushing as hard as he can.  And a piece of gum before school is very calming.  Also drink something thick through a straw is helpful---------- like a thick smoothie or applesauce.  We do all of this before school every day.  It has helped.  If you need any other ideas, please let me know!

[busymommy2]

Thanks for the comments everyone. "Specialmom",  your son sounds very much like mine and the things you have done with your son are very much like what we are working on and doing here. I have already dealt with the school counselor and resource but haven't had much luck. I have made appointments to meet with our family physician and psychologist to again press the issue. It really isn't about making life easier for me as his parent or for his teaching team. It's about helping my son find the peace that he needs so much to find.

To all other readers please feel free to continue sharing thoughts and suggestions.
Thanks

[AnnieBrooke]

I don't want to go into guessing that things are worse than they are, but Tourette's has the symptom of odd noises.  Definitely get a better evaluation than you have had access to so far, your psychologist should not be the one if he or she is just pooh-poohing the issue.

[jdtm]

I  would appear to me that the next step would be to obtain (in your words) a "formal diagnosis and write up".  Your school should be able to direct you to "someone" who should be able to help  you.  I wish you the best ....