If you are the parent of an ADHD child, you have probably realized that your child is special and requires specific things to help them perform their best. School aged children in particular face many challenges that are not adequately addressed without diligent and determined effort on the part of an advocate. The person you choose to advocate for the rights of your child can be anyone, from a family member to a professional advocate, trained to work solely for the rights and needs of ADHD children. The best place to start in your search for the right advocate for your child is to consult with a professional therapist or counselor.
Therapists and counselors who specialize in dealing with ADHD understand the complexities of the issues these children face. They work closely with school staff and medical staff to ensure that your child's physical and mental needs are being met and know what accommodations should be put in place to guarantee that your child will be able to participate in all of the activities that they are entitled to and receive the same benefits afforded to children without ADHD.
Your child's therapist will get to know your child's specific behavior patterns, weaknesses and strengths and can make recommendations to the school based on their assessment. Additionally, a professional therapist is an excellent resource for other professional help that may be required. These specialists are familiar with the laws that protect your child from being discriminated against and can guide you in the right direction to have educational plans designed for your child that comply with all federal and state laws.
Many children with ADHD need extra time for test taking, homework assignments, or even just to complete a classroom activity. My own son was allowed to have two sets of books, one at home and one at school, so that he did not have to remember to bring them back and forth. The educational plan that we put into place required that the teachers had to email me weekly so that I could track his progress. He was allowed to take tests in a special room, free of distractions, and was also allowed to complete many of his assignments on a computer, rather than having to struggle with writing, which can present a challenge to many children with ADHD.
As a parent, you must do your own research and know what situations present the biggest obstacles to your child. Every child is different, and their ADHD symptoms all manifest in unique ways. Consider contacting a local ADHD support group or find one online that explains your child's rights. Work with their therapist or counselor to determine the best course of action you should take in order to be certain that your child is receiving all of the educational and social opportunities that he or she is entitled to.
Jennifer Wilson is a professional copywriter with special focus on child development issues. You can visit her site to find a counselor in your area.
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