A free newsletter by BJ Madewell
DIAGNOSIS ADD ADHD Now What?
Published 10th, 20th & 30th of each month
PLEASE SEE DISCLAIMER AT THE END OF THIS DOCUMENT!
NOVEMBER 20, 2002
What's A Teacher to Do?
Thelma teacher said, "A student in my class is definitely having difficulty. I've tried EVERYTHING! I'm pretty sure she has ADHD. What do I do now?"
First. Be sure you know the child's academic and social/emotional strengths and weaknesses. Familiarize yourself with the child's academic and social/emotional history. Consult w/ previous teachers and/or records. See if you can determine if this is a "chronic" problem or not.
READ Schoolwork
and ADHD
http://www.pediatricneurology.com/schoolrx.htm
You said you've tried EVERYTHING. Be sure by reading Schoolwork and ADHD
If you are still convinced.... familiarize yourself with myths about medication so you can talk w/ parents if they quiz you about medication. You must know this information because medication is usually indicated for those diagnosed w/ ADHD. You need to be able to clear up myths parents may have concerning medication or they will NOT follow through and seek an evaluation from their doctor. It is also wise to say, frequently, while visiting w/ parents = "I am not a doctor." "Your doctor can explain that to you better than I can."
Myths
and Effects
of Medications for ADD ADHD
http://www.addchoices.com/myths_and_effects.htm
Find a support group for ADHD in your area - just in case parents ask for more information.
CHADD
http://www.chadd.org/findchap.cfm?cat_id=7&subcat_id=36
I highly recommend you refer parents to such a support group. It is imperative that parents understand the ramifications of ADHD and how it can wreck havoc on academics and social relationships. A support group can direct parents to knowledgeable doctors in your area. It is important parents visit a doctor who understands ADD/ADHD!
Parents are more likely to believe other parents than they are a "teacher who doesn't like my child." Be aware that many ADHD kids have parents who are also ADHD and such parents need to be educated!
In
my opinion, you are morally bound to share your concerns w/ the parents!
I suggest you
document your discussion in writing. This is so other teachers, in the future,
will know you have shared your concerns w/ the parents. Many parents have heard
the same thing from every teacher, every year. There is no point in repeating
the same message over and over. Parents will decide to follow up on teacher suggestions
that they seek an evaluation in their OWN
TIME.
You must express your concerns properly or suffer the wrath of upset administrators. You ABSOLUTELY can not declare a child ADD/ADHD. It is a medical diagnosis.
Check w/ your principal or special education support person and find out EXACTLY what your district will allow you to say regarding your concerns.
IT'S YOUR CHOICE
If you suspect ADD/ADHD you must share your professional opinion with the appropriate people - i.e.. parents, administrators, school psychologists, social workers, support personnel, etc.
PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE
When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.
DISCLAIMER
This information is for educational purposes only. Much of then information is from classes and workshops I've taken during my 25+ years of working with ADD & ADHD students - sprinkled with my own comments, thoughts and insights
Some information is acquired from the INTERNET. Be aware that not all information on the WWW is accurate. Use your own judgment. This information is not intended to replace information from your doctor, therapist, lawyer, psychologist, nutritionist or psychiatrist. Consult your child's (or your own) doctor for additional input.
Editor: BJ Madewell
Wichita, KS area
316-733-9532
FAX not available
Email ADDchoices@aol.com or ADDchoices@yahoo.com
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FREE.
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Please fwd to others who may benefit.
BJ
Madewell
