Update on Newbie from ND

I finally got the evaluation on Wednesday.  The psychologist came up with the following diagnostic impressions: ADHD, Combined Type, Significant Deficits in Fine Motor Functioning and Articulation disorder. 

For the ADHD he stated that he scored within the average range on measure of pure attention and love average in impulse control, he scored in the borderline low area on measures of response speed and speed consistency.  This suggests that he attempts to slow down to improve his performance, but has difficulties maintaining this strategy for more than a few minutes at at time.  "His TOVA performance was highly characteristic of individuals attempting to compensate for difficulties attending and concentrating. 

His recommendations:

1.  The results of the eval suggest that Alex is experiencing symptoms consistant with ADHD, but that he is at least partially masking these symptoms with advanced cognitive skills.  He also has difficulties with fine motor functioning as well as difficulties articulating words.  At parent discretion, Alex may benefit from consultation with pcp for consideration of a cautious trial of stimulant medication to treat his adhd. 

2.  Attached to this report is a listing of strategies and interventions that might be helpful when working with Alex on a regular basis.  It will be clearly important for teachers to allow Alex to be flexible in terms of movement as long as he is getting his assignments completed. 

3.  Alex may benefit from a strong incentive based program to encourage his particpation and practice with various fine motor activities.

4.  Unquestionably, Alex will benefit from speech services focusing on articulation/pronounciation of words. 

All of the evaluations and information we got back from this is very consistant with Alex.  My question for others is has anyone started on the extended release medications immediately?  I would prefer for him not to have to take medication at school. 

http://taylor-nelson-forever-14.memory-of.com

Holly,

I didn't want my 6 year old to have to take meds at school either, so I talked with his psychologist, and he suggested Concerta.  He has been on it a month and a half, and so far the only side effect we've seen is a decreased appetite.

Diane