By Eric Hamilton


Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder seems to be almost an epidemic in children these days. There are a lot of theories as to why. In the meantime, kids are growing up having difficulties when it comes to paying attention, behaving appropriately and interacting with others. School systems are adjusting classrooms to accommodate the learning challenges of these special students. As the parent, there are ways you can be an active partner in your youngster's 504 plan ADHD.

This plan is designed to level the academic playing field for children with attention deficit disorders. Schools provide audio books, help taking notes, and extra time for test taking. In order to make sure your child gets the most out of this, you must be proactive. You need to let teachers and administrators know you want to attend planning meetings involving your little one. Don't be shy about discussing your youngster's strengths and what has worked for him in the past.

A lot of school administrators try and standardize these plans because it's the easiest way to handle them. No two children are alike however, and one plan won't be effective for every child. The disease affects different children differently. Some are inattentive, and some are hyperactive and impulsive. Plans must be flexible enough to address these issues.

You should not assume that these plans cover all aspects of your child's education. One school may only provide assistance in the classroom, but not at assemblies or on field trips. You know that when your youngster is required to sit quietly for an extended period of time there could be problems. You should talk to the administrators about adjusting the plan to accommodate these difficulties.

When you are reading the descriptions of plans like these, you may notice terms that seem vague and arbitrary. They may also contain legal language you aren't familiar with. If you see something you don't understand, ask that it be explained to you. When terminology is vague, you can request that specific language be included in your kid's plans to make it clear to everyone exactly what services will be provided, how, and when.

It's important to know who the decision maker is it comes to the plans being implemented for your child. The classroom teacher and infirmary nurse might be helpful in certain cases. You want to discuss other matters with the committee leader. If you are dissatisfied with some aspect of the plan or don't believe what you agreed to is being carried out, this is the person to contact.

It isn't enough for you to meet one time, at the beginning of the year, with the classroom teacher and any appropriate administrators. You should check in periodically to let everyone know you are involved. You need to sit down with your child as well to get his feedback and listen to his concerns.

Your child has a right to a quality education. If he has special challenges, and accommodations have to be made to ensure his right, so be it. As the parent, you have to be an active advocate for your child to make sure that happens.




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