second born twin

My 6 yr old second born twin (born at 36wks 4.6 lbs) is not motivated to learn his letters at all. He seems to have no interest in retaining the info learned in school or at home. In fact, when I work with him one on one he seems to id the letters and sounds about 50% of the time. i am wondering if this is immaturity or a learning disorder. He has trouble staying in awake in the afternoons (teacher says he plays hard at recess and is therefore too tired for school work) and i should also mention that he can sit with blocks or lego for hours without tiring. i don't think it's ad/hd (his father and aunt and grandfather all have it) I'm wondering if there is a way to motivate him to want to learn to read or at least learn his letters. my biggest fear is that his twin will go to first grade and he will be left behind.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

I would not advise you to focus on the matter of motivation - that will likely not yield much fruit. I would suggest he be evaluated for a possible learning disability. In addition, you should notify his pediatrician about the afternoon fatigue. It may indicate a sleep disorder, and at the very least the doctor will want to order some routine lab work to rule out any metabolic or endocrine problem.

[mommyirina]

I just want to know what about my question makes you think my son needs to be evaluated for a possible learning ability.  How can you be so certain that he is not just immature? Is this a development issue, should he be able to concentrate and be motivated to learn by age 6? thanks.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

It is certainly possible that he is simply a little behind in the reading readiness/phonics area. It is also possible that his struggles indicate a learning disability - that is the reason I suggested the evaluation. First graders' ability to concentrate is limited, but it generally suffices to grasp the reading process, a major goal of first grade. Motivation varies from child to child and can be hampered if a child is struggling and therefore does not find enjoyment/success in school.