Opinions, please

[Connie1222]

Yesterday, I went to the local Catholic school to sign Jack up for CCD classes. On the form, they asked the question, "Does your child have a learning disability?" I circled no and didn't mention anything else. Now, I am second guessing myself. Jack has ADHD & PDD NOS (they are not technically "learning disblilities") but he is very "high functioning". Other than his hyperactivity, most people wouldn't think anything is off with him. And I figured it would be a small class, only once a week for 2 hours. Part of me was thinking why predjudice the teacher before he even starts, he may do fine. Another part of me is hoping they don't notice anything at all. But now another part of me is thinking it might be better to tell them about Jack so they are prepared. What do you think I should do?

[Jayne]

That is a tough call. I as a sunday school teacher would like to know that sort of thing. I wouldn't prejudice him but I would at least know what I was going into and maybe have other creative idea's to harbor his energy. Then again you could have a teacher who would be awful about it. Maybe just go the first few classes and be there to help out if need be and then discuss with the teacher once you know the dynamic of the class :dunno:

[Connie1222]

This is exactly why I'm torn. On the one hand it could be good to let the teacher know but on the other hand, it may be someone who would form an opinion before they even met Jack.

[Shel]

I've found that we always tell people about Jacob's ADD. If I don't, they tend to have treated him like "the bad kid" and not a child with an actual issue.

[Connie1222]

That's a very good point Shel. I didn't think of it like that. I wonder if I should call the school now & ask to speak to the teacher or wait until classes start.

[Shel]

I would do it now. It may give her a chance to research, plan etc. I find that if they know up front Jacob may need to be kept busy or will need to change tasks frequently, they will usually plan ahead.

[Karin]

Hi Connie,
I agree with Shel. I'm a former elementary teacher, so I can understand where you're coming from and understand your concern about a teacher prejudging Jack. But, I think it would be best to let the teachers know so that they are better able to meet his needs in the classroom. If the teacher has little/no experience with kids with similar difficulties, they may even want to ask you for suggestions - techniques that work, things that might pose a problem for him, etc. I think the best way to ensure he'll have a positive experience is to lay it all out there.