You should request that the school intervention team conduct an eligibility evaluation, which includes testing, parent interviews, record reviews, and observations. Not all children diagnosed with ADHD qualify for an IEP. Only children who have a disability that impedes their ability to learn will qualify for an IEP.

Maybe. A child who was denied coverage under IDEA may qualify for coverage under Section 504. The key is whether or not the student's AD/HD substantially impacts a major life activity.

The diagnosis of ADHD in the preschool child is possible, but can be difficult and should be made cautiously by experts well trained in childhood neurobehavioral disorders. Developmental problems, especially language delays, and adjustment problems can sometimes imitate ADHD. Treatment should focus on placement in a structured preschool with parent training and support.

ADHD continues into adulthood in most cases. However, by developing their strengths, structuring their environments, and using medication when needed, adults with ADHD can lead very productive lives. In some careers, having a high-energy behavior pattern can be an asset.

Yes. Approximately one-third of people with ADHD never have symptoms of hyperactivity. Females with ADHD are less likely to have symptoms of hyperactivity compared to males.

ADHD is a medical condition and the educational staff of a school are not qualified to diagnose ADHD. If you believe your child may have symptoms of ADHD, then you should consult with your family doctor, your child's pediatrician, or other licensed medical/mental health professional who is trained in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. Teachers and other school personnel can play an important role by evaluating your child's learning ability and determine educational deficits.

Many children with ADD/ADHD experience a general diminishing of symptoms as they approach adulthood. However, approximately 50-60% of children with ADHD will still meet the full criteria for ADHD as adults and will continue to have significant problems with attention and impulsivity in their academic, occupational, or social life. The majority of children with ADHD will grow into adults with ADHD.

The brain of a child with ADHD is like a TV set that isn’t receiving a perfect signal. For the child it’s as if the channel keeps changing, too. Imagine you are watching the news on BBC1. Suddenly, somebody picks up the remote control and flicks over to ITV. A second later the programme changes to Channel 4 and then back to BBC1. Then it switches to BBC2. If you were asked about the news on BBC1, you might find it hard to remember.

Yes. Intelligence and AD/HD are separate. It is possible to be intellectually gifted and have AD/HD, too. However, AD/HD may impact academic performance. When a child is identified as both gifted and as a child with AD/HD, this is often called twice exceptional. School accommodations may be appropriate.

the beginning of each year and again whenever warranted, your child's teachers are given a copy of the IEP and are required to read it over and discuss it with the Child Study Team.

Your child's teacher(s): If your child has more than one teacher, your state may specify in its law which teacher(s) should participate;

Here are tips for parents who think their child may have ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Create a routine. Try to follow the same schedule every day, from wake-up time to bedtime. Post the chedule in a prominent place, so your child can see where he or she is expected to be throughout the day and when it's time for homework, play, and chores. Help your child organize. Put schoolbags, clothing, and toys in the same place every day so your child will be less likely to lose them. Avoid distractions.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD, also called ADD) is a neurobiological condition that affects an estimated 4-7% of the U.S. population. ADHD is an ongoing condition that affects children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. It occurs in both males and females, and in people of all races, socioeconomic status, and cultural backgrounds. ADHD may cause significant impairments in many areas of life such as school, home, the workplace, and in family and social relationships.

No. If your child has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or is receiving special education services, it does NOT automatically mean she will be placed in a special education classroom. IDEA has a Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) clause, which states that children should be educated in the least restrictive environment that is still sufficient to meet their academic needs.

To allow the best chance to get dry for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, it is best to first get treatment for the ADHD before attempting treatments for bedwetting.

Yes, adults can be evaluated for ADD/ADHD. We know from clinical experience that ADD is often undiagnosed in adults and can have serious negative consequences left untreated. Recent research suggests that ADHD possesses a strong genetic component and is often present in multiple members of the same family.

Maybe. A child who was denied coverage under IDEA may qualify for coverage under Section 504. The key is whether or not the student’s AD/HD substantially impacts a major life activity.

Yes. Parents may tape record an IEP meeting, even without the school district's permission, as long as you give the school district 24 hours notice of your intent to do so. [TIP: It is best to provide notice to the district in writing. This can be in the form of a letter or fax. It is also helpful to bring a copy of your written notice to the IEP in case school site staff hasn't been told of your written notice.

Your service coordinator, your early intervention team and representatives from the public schools will develop a transition plan, to include a schedule for testing, and work with you to write the IEP. The IEP is a legal document and should not be signed if you do not understand it or are not sure you agree with it.

Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a special education planning document. Your child may need an IEP if he/she is experiencing educational, emotional, or behavioral difficulties (i.e., failing grades, teacher expressing concerns, child is upset or avoiding school). If you think your child is failing, you should talk to your child’s teacher.

A student can be diagnosed with many types of learning and/or physical challenges and still be gifted. Some of the gifted students could have dyslexia, visual/auditory processing difficulties, and other needs. The gifted program can still meet the needs of these students.

IEP stands for Individualized Education Program (also called Individualized Education Plan, Individual Educational Program, etc.). The IEP is a legally binding contract of services provided by a school district for children classified with a disability. While different school districts vary the IEP in format and structure, there are seven legally mandatory components: A statement of special education, related services and supplementary aids and services provided for the student.

No. The IEP sets out the individualized instruction to be provided to your child, but it is not a contract. The school is responsible for providing the instructional services listed in an IEP. Return to Index

Federal and state laws require that each student's entire Individualized Education Program (IEP) be reviewed and updated at least annually. In accordance with federal and state laws, the Individualized Education Program (IEP) team must conduct a complete review of the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) at least once every three years.

If meals are an issue for the child than a goal on the IEP may be appropriate. A dietician MAY be appropriate, depending on the age of the child, goals desired, and the amount of content based on nutrition. A school nurse could certainly consult with a dietician prior to a meeting to obtain the needed info. Top