Q I have a nine-year-old son who has been displaying some significant behavioural problems. I had him evaluated earlier this year and he was diagnosed with a very short attention span, in addition he was performing one grade level below in mathematics and reading.

On countless occasions I have sat with him to explain the importance of a good behaviour and a good education and his response will vary from being willing to try harder to saying he doesn't care depending on the mood he is in. Sometime he complains that no one loves him and that he wishes he was dead.

As a result of his poor performance in school, I have been trying to get him into a preparatory school to see if a change in environment will result in a change in him. He spent two weeks in a summer programme at a school where he was offered a place, even though he had failed the entrance test. At the end of the two weeks, I was called in and notified that they are withdrawing the offer, as my child needed professional teaching and he has the wrong attitude towards his schoolwork, as he tends to give up easily and most time do not write the work given to him on the blackboard.

He is currently enrolled in another school, where he is attending summer classes for four weeks. He is making a effort to get his work done. However, there are times when he reverts to his old habit of not wanting to write.

I am very concerned about him and I would like to have him visit with a psychologist where I can give more details of his behaviour and have him evaluated. I am, therefore, using this medium to appeal to you for some help and guidance as to the way forward.

Looking forward to your response.

Thank you.

A Children with problems of short attention will require special educational services. You will need to sit with a psychologist and a special educator to determine how your child can be helped in school and at home. You may call Gateway Medical Centre at 962-5292 in Mandeville to get this kind of help.

Q

My son is not reading well at age 8. Help me.

AYou need to get your child tested with a diagnostic reading test. One has been specially developed in Jamaica by the Mico Care Centre. Contact an educational psychologist and ask if he/she can test your child using the Mico Diagnostic Reading Test. You may also need a psychological test to determine if there are any emotional or IQ concerns.