ADD/Ritalin
Weiland, James A BB (WeilanJA@USDIT.BB.UNISYS.COM)
Mon, 11 Mar 1996 09:34:00 PST
I have two sons who have both been diagnosed with
ADD. They both do not exhibit the hyperactivity that
often accompanies ADD. My younger son was diagnosed
when he was in the 2nd grade. While my older son was not
diagnosed until 7th grade. The increasing levels of work
expected from Jr. High students and his difficultly focusing
on the completion of this work finally brought our attention
to the situation.
It can be very frustrating and time consuming going through
the diagnosis process because it is very subjective. I can only
echo Bill Paul's comments about finding a competent health
care professional and putting together a complete program that
includes counseling, behavior modification, educational
accommodation and if necessary medication. Also keep
reinforcing that ADD is not an excuse to get out of doing
school work or other assignments. They must take responsibility
for getting the work done.
Also talk to your sons teachers each year to make them aware
of the situation. Don't wait for the interim reports. Among educators
there are varying levels of knowledge about ADD/ADHD. So it
doesn't hurt to do a little educating of your own. We spoke with
my older son's 10th grade teachers this year and the response
was "we had no idea he was ADD". Once they are aware they
can make adjustments like moving him closer to their desk, a little
side conference from time to time, etc. These little things can make
a big difference.
The results, my older son is a BOR away from Eagle and my younger
son just made 1st Class. This year has been the best year ever for
both of them in school.
YIS,
Jim Weiland
SM Troop 551
King of Prussia, PA
Cradle of Liberty Council
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