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A:
Although your son is gifted, he is not evenly gifted and that
always causes things to be a little harder for children. While
he may be able to read beyond his classmates and feel smart when
he's reading or talking, he may feel very challenged during some
of the handwriting or drawing tasks.
"Bored" is a word kids may use
for too easy or too hard, so no wonder you're confused. If, indeed,
you have an attention deficit disorder, your son may also have
a similar disorder; however, there may be other things you can
try before medication to help to determine if his symptoms are
caused biochemically or because of the unevenness in his abilities.
It might help to give your son the opportunity
to read to some children who don't know how to read yet. That
will add to his status and confidence. Learning to write little
stories on the computer will help him to express himself in words
without coping with a pencil. Using the computer can also improve
his small muscle coordination.
Daily brief printing exercises at home,
doing dot-to-dot or maze books, and practicing coloring can help
improve his coordination. Try to keep his homework time brief
and fun to avoid too much pressure. Playing board and card games
together can also help him to focus his attention and develop
coordination skills. Young children can make great advances in
weak areas with a little practice.
Try some of these techniques to see if
your son progresses. You'll also find my book, Why
Bright Kids Get Poor Grades, helpful. For a free newsletter
on ADHD or learning disabilities, send a self-addressed, stamped
envelope to P.O. Box 45489, Cleveland, OH 44145.
Dr. Sylvia Rimm,Phd
Copyright © 2000,
Creators Syndicate, Inc.
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