Adults With Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) - Do Your Batteries Need Recharging?

Parenting a child with ADHD and/or learning Brain C-13 Review differences often requires extra strength, time, and energy. Because life is harder for our kids, we take nothing for granted. We appreciate their triumphs more - whether it's passing a test, making a friend, learning new skills, or positive feedback from a teacher. We feel enormous relief and pride when our children experience success. Our kids are precious. We need to make sure they know everyday that they are loved and accepted. When times get tough or you feel stuck, here are some tips to help you along the road.

Learn as much as possible about Attention Deficit Disorder. It's impossible to have realistic expectations or advocate effectively for your kids unless you know what you're facing. Have your child tested for both AD/HD and learning disabilities LD because the two commonly go together. People with learning disabilities have average to high intelligence, along with brains that work and learn differently. They often have problems in school because their learning styles are different from the majority of kids in the class. Teachers have to teach to the majority, so LD kids often get left behind. Your child can be tested privately or by the school psychologist.

Once your child has been diagnosed, apply for an IEP Individualized Education Plan or Section 504 accommodations at school. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act IDEA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 were designed to ensure that students with disabilities receive equal access to education and school activities. Eligibility for Section 504 is based on the existence of an identified physical or mental impairment that significantly impacts your child's learning or behavior. Accommodations vary according to the child's needs and are a tremendous help to level the playing field.

Ask the school psychologist or learning specialist to advocate for your child. If you have your child tested through an outside agency, you may be able to find a professional who will meet with teachers about how your son or daughter can learn best. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Stay involved and develop partnerships with your child's teachers. Work with the teacher to create a plan that keeps you aware of your child's progress at school. Stand up for your child, educate the school staff about ADD, but try not to alienate the teacher. Remember that most teachers have your child's best interests at heart, but may not fully understand the challenges of ADD and are often overwhelmed with too many students.

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