Reading Comprehension

When ADHD isn't the cause of your child's trouble with reading comprehension, there are some other factors to consider.
Q
My first-grader has a problem with reading comprehension. He's been through testing for ADD and ADHD and has come up in the gray area, so they couldn't say for sure that he has a problem. We've worked with him and he's come a long way. Is there any information or special classes you can recommend that may be able to help us?
A
It sounds like you have been working very hard to help your son in the areas he is having problems. Keep in mind that some problems that you know exist don't show up in test results until second or third grade (or even later). If your son continues to have problems, ask that the testing be repeated again over the next few years.

There are probably some groups in your community that can help you with information. Ask the staff at your son's school if there is a Learning Differences Association (LDA) or Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (ChADD) chapter in your area. You can also go to their websites for information on local chapters: www.ldanatl.org and

Barbara Potts has worked as an elementary school counselor for many years. She has a BA in psychology from Wake Forest University, and an M.Ed. in Guidance and Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

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