My son is a smart, healthy nine-year-old. He is reading at a Grade 8 level and is capable of doing math at a Grade 6 level. Our problem is his severe lack of focus at school and at home during homework time. I have been contacted by each one of his frustrated teachers about their inability to get him to complete even the simplest of tasks. We have applied to have him assessed by the board psychologists (which takes more than a year to get an appointment) and in the meantime have him in a learning centre two times a week. The expense -- $50 per hour of instruction -- is hard for us to manage but we are willing to sacrifice other things to help him. We know that the work is only going to get harder in the next year and really fear that he will fall behind. His grades are already showing a huge difference in his ability and his output. I'm really not interested in putting him on medication if I can help it. He has no hyperactivity element to his behaviour and I would like to know your thoughts and get your advice on how to best help my son.
When a child is having difficulty focusing there are several considerations, including ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). You should have a chat with your physician about this problem so he/she can assess whether your son needs a hearing assessment, visual acuity test (you can see an optometrist without a referral) or whether bloodwork is indicated. Most often 'difficulty paying attention' isn't related to a health problem but it should be evaluated.
The next consideration is whether you have a drug plan that covers a psychological assessment. If so, your physician can refer you to a psychologist and an assessment can be done privately. Lastly, there are developmental pediatricians who can help tease out the basis for your son's problems. In the meantime, it's great you're working with a tutor, I would continue as long as funds allow. It sounds like you have a bright young boy who will benefit from attention to this problem.
----Dr Cathryn Tobin
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