Have your child tested for both ADHD and learning disabilities because the two commonly go together. Most people with learning disabilities have average to high intelligence, but their brains work and learn a bit differently. With different learning styles from the majority of kids in the class, they often have problems in school. Teachers have to teach to the majority, so LD kids get left behind. It’s important to diagnose a learning difference early so you can find resources for your child before s/he becomes frustrated with failure. Approach the school psychologist first with your concerns, since private testing can be expensive.

Your attitude will impact success with your ADD/ADHD student. The first rule for success with a student who is diagnosed with ADD or ADHD is to learn to embrace your child’s uniqueness and work to make the most of the traits and abilities that make your child special. Remember that every child is uniquely special and parents can better accept ‘flaws’ by not comparing one child’s ability to another’s. Work with the child you have and encourage success with positive reinforcement and love.

You can help your child have the greatest chance of success in school by:

• educating yourself
• building relationships and maintaining open communication with your child’s teachers
• working with your child at home
• keeping good records

Preschool or kindergarten is the best time to start using these techniques. Begin educating yourself and tracking behavior changes and milestones as soon as possible so that you will have a better overview of problems and progress. Know your child's symptoms and treatment plan. Talk with your doctor about ways to control the behaviors that may interfere with learning. Develop a record of your child's treatment plan.

Once You Have a Diagnosis... Monitor Symptoms. ADD and ADHD are acronyms for Attention Deficit Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Some children only display the symptoms of ADD. They may exhibit inattentive or impulsive behavior, problems concentrating or staying on task, sloppy handwriting, daydreaming, impaired social skills or written expression, emotional immaturity, an inability to interact with peers, or other behavior that inhibits learning. 

Other children are ADHD, which means that they have many of the above symptoms, plus other symptoms, such as increased or constant energy, nervousness or impulsivity, and constant movement or fidgeting, which can be a disruption in the classroom. The best immediate remedy for ADD/ADHD related problems is classroom intervention by a creative teacher who is very willing to help all of his or her students learn.

Unlike those with ADHD, students with just ADD are not hyperactive or disruptive. However their ADD can lead to academic problems because of their inability to focus, stay organized, or grasp and retain information. Adults may not realize students with ADD have a serious problem because their behavior is seldom a concern in the classroom. Students with ADD may also have other types of learning disabilities and appear withdrawn, disinterested, bored, or distracted.  How can you know?