Dear J.S.,

Your son’s progress depends upon finding appropriate goals, correct starting points and the best ways to proceed. No book or CD is going to be adequate; he needs an individually-designed program. You can be a vital partner in his therapy project, and your dedicated participation might make all the difference for him, but you need to insist upon professional help and guidance.

Public schools are required by Federal law to provide a free and appropriate education, for children who qualify under certain guidelines. If you do not believe your son is receiving the help he needs, you must be his advocate. For more information, you might begin with the Special Education Primer at http://www.therapistfinder.net/journal/sped/index.html.

For positive, practical help in living with your ADHD child, check your public library for Raising Your Spirited Child: A Guide for Parents Whose Child is More Intense, Sensitive, Perceptive, Persistent and Energetic. The author differentiates between 'spirited' and ADHD--probably better than many physicians do--but the attitude here is powerful for all who deal with challenging children.

Best Wishes,
Ruth Alice Jurey, M.S.
Speech/Language Pathologist

Special Education Primer reference updated 6/05