Mild Mental Retardation

I have been thinking on your request. I don't have any advice as far as schools and doctors, but my sister in law recommended a good book to me that I want to pass on. From the Title "The Read Aloud Handbook" it does not sound like it will help, but from what she is reading in this book, it shows the importance of reading to our kids and how it helps the brain function for them tremendously. She told me yesterday that she read in it how it helps kids with mild retardation issues when we read and read to them. Here is a link to the book (its a book for parents) http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Read-Aloud-Handbook/...

I just wanted to pass it on if it can help while you try to find some good help. I'm always looking for some good alternative ways to help my child. Hopefully it will be a good resource for you.

hi L.,
Of course your child can stay in his current elementary school. They will take your doctors diagnoses - do some educational testing for their records, and arrange for Special Education Services. He can stay in all regular classrooms (he might get one or two pull out classes where he workes 1 on 1 with a special education teacher). They will develop an IEP (individual education Plan) and meet with your regularly to talk to you about progress.
Find a good therapist for yourself and go to at least 4 sessons - it will help you to get your head straight and do the best for your kiddo.
hang in there -
T.

If your child does have mild mental retardation, I would suggest getting a very good evaluation on how that will impact his learning. He may be ellegible for special education services right at his current elementary school. Before you could anything you need to know how it affects his learning. The school should be able to provide this evaluation or you can talk to them about paying for an independent evaluation if you have a certain professional you want to do it. The school has to provide any assistance for your child in the least restrictive environment, which means the class he is in now (before his diagnosis).

I have a son with CHARGE Syndrome who has been navigating the special education world for over 10 years now. There is a great website if you ever need it in the future called wrightslaw.com or org (I don't remember.) Just google wrightslaw and you will find it. It's written by attorneys to help parents through special education.

Good luck.
J.
____@____.com
www.livetotalwellness.com/janislanz

L.,

The psychologist that told you that about your son should be able to answer all of your questions. It is your right to have those answers and it is their job to tell you. If you feel more comfortable talking in another language, you need to tell them that, too. It is their job to find an interpreter. These are all very important questions that you need answers to. I was a school psychologist for 10 years before staying home with my kids and I would want parents to ask me these questions. The psychologist is there to help you, he/she is your advocate with the school.