I have embarked on a new journey. One that will, hopefully, have lasting impact on my children, particularly my oldest. Zack was recently diagnosed with AD/HD-Inattentive type. He also has Adjustment Disorder, anxiety and depression, no doubt as a result of the struggles he has experienced in school as a result of the AD/HD.
As an avid learner who loves research (hello, history major!), I have made it my mission to learn all I can to help him successfully navigate his path through life. This should not only help him, but Ian (the youngest Cronk boy) as well. What I'm learning is that the changes we make at home will be helpful and easy to implement. It is the changes at school that I am worried about. From experience from the past few years, I struggle with my confidence in the school's ability to be as innovative and accommodating as they need to be to help ALL students achieve.
As I read, I find myself becoming more and more excited about the possibility of innovative reform in our schools. How thrilling would it be for every child to have an individualized instruction plan (IEP) from the day they entered the school house doors? One that followed them through their academic career and customized their education to their own specific needs. If you were an auditory learner, you would be able to have tests administered orally. Or, if you were a kinesthetic learner, you could demonstrate your knowledge through a hands-on project. That would be truly individualized instruction!
As Zack gravitates toward middle school, I am hopeful that he is entering an environment that will recognizes his strengths, maximizing those to overcome or reduce his weaknesses. I am hopeful that he will encounter educators that see his intellect and his vibrant character, and who want to do everything possible to make this kid shine. I am daring to believe that they will look beyond tradition and grab onto innovative teaching opportunities that will help not only my son, but all learners.
With that said, I am again a new passenger on this voyage through life with a child who has AD/HD, and am always looking for new resources. I know there are others out there who are far more knowledgeable and have blazed the path before me. Please feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with me!
