Scouts with ADD
(no name) ((no email))
Mon, 31 Jul 1995 15:18:06 EDT
Our Troop started a Special Needs program a couple of months ago to address the
problems presented to boys with ADD and Learning Disabilities. We are just
getting our feet wet. Having just returned from summer camp with 41 Scouts, 8
of which have Attention Deficit Disorder, a Learning Disability or some other
"unusual" obstacle to overcome, it seems a good time to let you know what
worked and what didn't.
First, before going off to camp, I asked every parent to complete a Special
Needs survey, identifying ANY problem that might have an affect on their son's
week at camp. Responses included everything from fear of spiders and thunder
to multi-dimensional learning disabilities. (FWIW, a learning disability is a
condition that somehow prevents an individual from making full use of his
available intellect. Most of our LD boys have above average IQs.) I also
developed
TW is a first year Scout with ADD; no specific learning disability has been
reported; a relatively minor difficulty to keep himself organized has been
noted. TW takes Dexedrine in both long-acting and immediate response forms,
with Clonidine to counteract the nervousness and sleeplessness sometimes
brought on by the medication. At the beginning of the week, TW was given an
index card, showing which classes he was scheduled to attend each class hour
during the week. Because some classes were only held on certain days, TW got
a little confused. We sat down together and made a separate schedule for each
day that had a different schedule, specifically identified study time for him to
work on his "homework", and free time, so he would know for sure that it was
time to take a break. TW completed the first year program, earning his Second
Class rank during camp, and completing the Swimming, Rifle, and Mammal Study
merit badges.
DG is a First Class Scout with ADD; DG suffers from dysgraphia, which makes it
difficult to express himself in writing. DG takes Ritalin in long acting and
immediate response forms, with Clonidine to counteract potential sleeplessness.
Terry Howerton Sakima Group, Inc. SCOUTER Magazine Kansas City |
