Dorothy,
I am wondering if you have considered having your son looked at for mild Autistic characteristics. My DS7 is very like your child, in that his transition to his new school has been hard and he's had trouble making friends. He has been diagnosed with mild Autistic-like tendencies, enough to get him an IEP. The special needs teacher is helping him with some basic socialization activities, his organization, and his handwriting (which he has issues with). I worry because he seems very naive for his age, but I am relieved that he is getting help at his age.
So, I guess my recommendation would be to get him evaluated. Sometimes the special needs help really supports the student. Not sure how you feel about these things. I know I was very anti-labels, until I realized this was the way to get my son the extra help he needs. He still goes to Gifted and still gets enrichment.
