Thank you so much aeh and MumofThree for taking the time to write such detailed answers. They have reassured me and given me a clear course of action.

Yes, aeh, CAT4 was exactly the test I meant, thanks.

Regarding the odd working memory discrepancy, I�m beginning to wonder if all the memory games we played with DD did more good than we realised. Things like �mastermind� and �my aunt packed her trunk...� which we played while walking because DD has to always be doing something.

As it is, word acquisition, itself, never seemed to be an issue for DD (early speaking) but poor articulation of ch, sh, j sounds needed speech therapy. Otherwise she seems to do well (and enjoy) learning languages so I�d have thought repeating nonsense words would be a stronger skill than her test reflects.

DD did a GL Exact speed of typing test with std score 109 - average but definitely an improvement on handwriting speed and something we can build on. We have typing games on our list for summer.

DD reports a fairly chaotic process of typed writing under test conditions (history)- reorganising as ideas occurred to her. She says trying to hand write the same thing she would have lots of crossing out and would make fewer points having forgotten them in the writing. The end result got the job done with better marks than I expected. I think the words are coming but planning and more practise on structure and technique will be necessary.

Having watched DD agonising over writing an English essay for homework I would agree that initiation and completion are issues. She has plenty of ideas but can�t decide which to use and where. Perhaps perfectionism is playing a part here?

I�m sure it has helped DD see that her problems with writing and organisation are real and not from lack of effort or care. So we�ll start with �smart but scattered� now and see how she goes. I�ve also looked out a Study Skills tutor used to gifted and SpeLD, just in case DD is less enthusiastic about working through the process with me. We will try scribing some practise tests over the holidays. See how that goes while researching AT options. I�ve made notes on the maths programs mentioned here. Not sure what would be best over all for science but will see how electronic lab books work.

I�m so glad to hear your DC enjoyed doing IB, MumofThree. DD appears keen to do the IB and I�m anxious to make sure she has what she needs and isn�t left high and dry. Since she has a track record of teaching herself when necessary eg typing I�m hoping she will give her best to mastering the skills to help her succeed. She has a strong desire to prove herself having been �held back� for years.


I also appreciate your observation of the co-occurrence of EDS and visual tracking issues. I�ve done a lot of research since realising DD is hypermobile and found she has a number of issues that also seem to co-occur. Alas, experience suggests we have to work through each specialism�s common diagnoses before they will consider anything else.

Last edited by ESAK; 08/08/20 06:26 AM. Reason: Typos