The transition from second grade to third grade can be a very exciting time in a young child's academic career. As children's reading skills evolve, this is the age when school curriculums start focusing on "reading to learn" (as opposed to the focus of the earlier grades which is "learning to read").

The attention and organization skills required at this point increase dramatically. As a result, children with ADHD or learning style differences often struggle at this age.

• If your child is having difficulty and/or a learning disability, this is a very useful website to look at: www.ldonline.org 

We have put together packets of information on numerous educational topics including Dyslexia, ADHD, and Organization Skills. Additionally we have information on IEPs (Individual Education Plans) and 504 Plans (school plans listing academic accommodations for children with school issues). 

If you or your child's teacher have concerns, remember that addressing these issues promptly can help prevent self-esteem issues later. Please feel free to make an appointment with any of our providers to discuss these issues. 

Lastly, we are also pleased to have Lisa Drenkhahn on staff as the Education Care Coordinator for our Medical Home Team. Lisa taught special education for 18 years and is here to collaborate with our providers on all educational issues.

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Read Dr Hartman's story of his struggles as a young elementary school student.

NEVER DOUBT THE RESILIENCE OF YOUR CHILD

I had to repeat first grade.

By that time, I had already had three operations for a clubfoot, and multiple hospitalizations for asthma. Additionally, attention and school problems were rapidly becoming apparent. In fact, my parents were actually told I would probably not make it past high school due to learning disabilities!   I was a slow reader and teased in school for my limp ("Captain Pegleg!"), and the last kid picked for sports.

I attribute the fact that I was eventually able to overcome this auspicious beginning to my parents love and understanding. They made enormous sacrifices to help me thrive in a private school. (Boston area public schools are much better than New Orleans)  They provided me with inspirational biographies about famous people who overcame adversity. Despite the doubts about my ability, my parents never stopped supporting me.

When I was accepted into medical school, my mother returned to tell my elementary school principal about my success.

Never doubt the resilience of your child.

As a result of my struggles and my professional experience, I refuse to believe that a child's learning style is a disability but rather a different way of learning that the individual, the parents and most importantly the school must adapt to.

Good luck!

Lester Hartman, MD