Expert: James Michael Roan - 4/24/2006

Question
Mr. Roan,
I am writing back to you as you requested. You said you needed some time think about the problem/issue and would get back in touch. Well of course no rush on my part. I appreciate any and all input and llok forward to your response. I thought about is alot over the weekend also and have been readingf numerous articles, publications, website info, etc. In some regards I think maybe having my son in the current school has been beneficial as these kids have similar social skill issues themselves. He is currently in a social skills class and recv individual therapy at the school also. So having him mainstreamed I think actually be more difficult for various reasons. Right now the class size is small (6 kids) and the school is well funded which gives them access to many programs, materials normal school could not afford. I just need to identify the specifics of his needs so that his IEP will reflect that. Since the school is not for HFA kids I am not sure who would be an advisor to oversee and understand the complexity of the diagnosis and the appropiate interventions. Anyway thanks again and look forward to your response.
Thank You
Marcie Delgado

Answer
Hi Marcie;

I agree with your current thinking. Look to the school's psychologist to take this on. This psychologist can assess your son's social skills through formal assessments as well as observations of your son in groups. They should focus first on friendship making and maintenance skills, which can be used with interacting with other peers as well.

Kind Regards,
James