Hi Jen,
((hugs))
OK, so you are facing some extra burdens. You are learning to forgive yourself, and you are growing and changing. To me, that is "playing the hand you were dealt" which is about the best we humans can aspire to. ((high five))
So, Right under "They are responsible for their education" put another sign that says, "In this family, we play the hand we were dealt." Actually I would post the first somewhere where the kids (who are now reading, darn it) can't see as they are growning into being responsible for their own learning, and I don't want to let them off the hook. Maybe the bathroom mirror? Or somewhere near where you sleep, or wait for sleep at night?
It's great that you have figured out your son's need for order, and provided him with checklists. I like Flylady.org for inspiration in keeping an orderly environment. I have found that an orderly home improves everyone's behavior and mood.
Here's another book for the wish list: Misdiagnosis And Dual Diagnoses Of Gifted Children And Adults: ADHD, Bipolar, OCD, Asperger's, Depression, And Other Disorders by James T. Webb, Edward R. Amend, Nadia E. Webb, Jean Goerss, Paul Beljan, F. Richard Olenchak, and Sharon Lind
Physicians, psychologist, and counselors are unaware of characteristics of gifted children and adults that mimic pathological diagnoses. Six nationally prominent health care professionals describe ways parents and professionals can distinguish between gifted behaviors and pathological behaviors...
Have you read this article?
http://www.hoagiesgifted.org/light_up_the_world.htmYou said:
Originally Posted By: Trinity
Request an IEP, again in physical hard copy, if that hasn't happend yet.
It has and it worked for 2nd grade, but I've been told that in 3rd grade "all they do" is prepare them for TAKS (our stupid state testing invented by the lovely GWB). For the "normal" dyslexics (is that offensive? I'm sorry don't have another word right now) they need help READING the questions on the TAKS so they accurately demonstrate their knowledge. My daughter can read just fine. When they get to the written portion - 4th grade - then she might need help.
I'm glad 2nd grade went well. As for 3rd, I believe that that is where the term "individualised" come in to play. I know that you believe this also, and I pray that your quiet sweet wheel will be enough to keep asking pertenient questions until the school remembers that they know this also. Maybe we should all be reading Plato for Scocratic tips on the are of asking questions.
As to getting DH on board with the testing and gradeskipping...well, I'm assuming that your district wouldn't do anything nowabout the gradeskipping, so focus on testing. I think it's time to explain to your DH that testing your DS will protect you from stress and isolation and protect DS from the dangers of pushing too hard or not pushing enough. Nothing like getting the right data when one is formulating an action plan to decrease stress. I would reccomend putting your argument in writing, and let a trusted friend look it over first so that it's logical, organized, and kind.
He is also going to need to do some reading to take the burden off of you trying to communicate the information to him. Here is the basic minimum that he needs to read to really get with you and not leave you struggling alone:
Iowa Acceleration Scale Manual: A Guide for Whole-Grade Acceleration (K-8) 2nd Edition
by Nicholas Colangelo
New: $21.75
Re-Forming Gifted Education: How Parents and Teachers Can Match the Program to the Child
by Karen B. Rogers
New: $21.75 33
A Nation Deceived: How Schools Hold Back America�s Brightest Students The Templeton National Report on Acceleration (free, download from this link!)
Acceleration is a powerful educational ally, but it�s a strategy that requires participation of parents as well as sensitivity to individual needs and circumstances. For that reason, this report is designed not only to persuade readers of the value of acceleration, but also to help schools administer acceleration programs effectively...
It may sound like alot, but Reforming Gifted Ed is more a manual, with lots of charts, to be used as a reference book. Also the Iowa Scale Manual, is mostly pictures, but an invaluable reference book, which although it says Acceleration right in the title, really focuses on all kinds of accomidation. The meat of the matter is Nation Decieved, and the best place to start. Full of logical facts and figures.
Be Well, Be Strong, and Enjoy!
Love and More Love,
Trinity
