We just went through this with our DS7. In the Fall, the promise of "next year will be more challenging" backfired as 1st grade proved to be nothing short of torture (according to the emotional roller coaster we experienced the first few months). We did some testing and were able to get him grade skipped into 2nd. He was much happier and challenged. Issues came up again recently, and we responded by working with the teacher and letting her know what was going on at home. In class, our DS7 is usually very quiet and well mannered so the rising frustration is hard to pick up on as a teacher. He saves is all for us at home. (YEAH)
My advice- when communicating with the schools and teachers, be as positive, helpful and thankful of every extra step they take to accommodate educational differentiation. Just like kids, every time they respond positively, give them positive feedback and encouragement. Just like it took many of us time to accept that our kids are "that" different- it takes teachers time as well. We got a positive response by giving specific tips about what was most frustrating. For example- "He loves computer lab and says that he is now getting to work at the 3rd grade level. But the problem is that he has now been taught all the lessons you are currently working on in class- the repetition seems to really frustrate him. Can we find some enrichment options that help him meet the classroom expectation of doing math during teaching time, (not reading at his desk which can set a bad example for the other kids that NEED to pay attention during the lesson.) If you acknowledge the challenges the teacher already faces in their regular job, then they feel much more appreciated when they put in extra work to find ways to challenge the ones that need it.
