Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)/ADD
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Question
I am the mother of a 10 year old boy who may or may not have ADD. The last two years have been really hard for him to stay on task and focus in school. We did move and I used that as the excuse why he wasn't paying attention in class but its been to years now so I have ruled that out. Him and I moved in with my boyfriend and his two kids which I also used that as an excuse but again its been two years. I am a hands on mom and help with school and homework ect. I am so frustrated. He has lots of friends and can sit still but when it comes to school he just wants to make noise and not stay focused. His grades are reflecting his choices. Any ideas how to start this process on finding out what is going on with him.
-- Melissa,
You should write a letter to the principal of the school your son attends asking that he be assessed for special education. Under the law, they are required to conduct a free assessment to determine what help he qualifies for. There are a variety of ways they can help him at no cost to you.
I wish you and your son the best,
Tim Runner, Advocate
Advocates for Kids
Email: timrunner@gmail.com
Phone: (949) 582-3601
You can learn more at my web site:
www.special-education-answers.com
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Answers by Expert:
Tim Runner
Expertise
Being an Education Advocate, I am able to answer questions related to educating students diagnosed with ADD/ADHD. I represent numerous students with these challenges. Too often schools do not properly serve the needs of these students and I sometimes have to fight to get my clients the special education services they require. Sometimes the schools push for medication rather than looking at the needs of the student. For some of my clients, medications have worked wonders, but for others medication is not the answer. Many times schools want to give parents a 504 Plan rather than qualifying the child for special education. Some of my clients have been well served by 504 Plans, but being qualified for special education services has many advantages. I have answered over a thousand AllExperts' questions in the categories of Special Education, Autism, and Speech.
Experience
I have represented hundreds of students and their parents over the past 7 years as an Education Advocate. I have been successful in getting my clients the services they need from their schools. Often I find myself educating parents about their legal options for their children. Once we agree on a plan of action, I implement it to the benefit of the student.
Education/Credentials
I have a degree in Mathematics with minors in psychology and physics from the University of California.
Awards and Honors
Having answered over one thousand questions, I have received very high ratings from the parents I have helped through AllExperts.com in the categories of Special Education, Autism, and Speech.
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