Concerned mother

My son is 7 years old and exhibits a number of symptoms of SPD. He does not seem as severe as others (I have a nephew with Aspergers) so I have kind of put it on the back burner thinking I am making a mountain out of a mole hill.




I have just had him evaluated by an OT as he still struggles greatly with tiying his shoes, buttoning, snapping and zipping as well as his handwriting. He has always been sensitive to sounds (keeps hands over his ears at parades, fireworks, field trips to fire stations) and can not seem to concentrate if he hears the smallest sounds. He doodles constantly at school and is always doing something else at the same time as an activity (fidgeting fingers, playing with small toys, etc). He exhibits some other minor issues as well.

I don't want my child labeled but want to provide him the services to make his life easier. He is a great student but some of these issues are really starting to show (i.e. his inability to take his great verbal stories and get them on paper). I am hoping that we can find the necessary assistance for him.



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Nov 19, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		Labeling
by: Jessi

I would not be too concerned about a label. I have been commended by my son's teachers for trying to help him. He is in Pre-K now and I pick him up twice a week for therapy. The school sees how much I inconvenience myself (I have a full-time job that I miss time at) to try and help him. So when he does get in trouble or is going through an 'SPD' time (every single growth spurt causes problems!) I think they are more understanding with him than they would be if they thought I wasn't concerned or trying to do something about it. I also have a son in Kindergarten and I've asked his teacher questions about how my SPD son will fare in 'big kid school'. She also commended me as she has children that have my son's problems, but have not been given any help to deal with them. She sees these kids struggling and hurting and there's nothing she can do if the parents won't help.

All that to say, I think in this day and age, a lot of teachers are aware, or becoming aware, of SPD and if you tell them your child has it, and give them tips on how to handle the child, they will be appreciative. In fact, it may mean the difference between your child being labeled as 'bad' and them being given extra help.

You're obviously a great mom and have noticed your son's 'problems'. Go ahead and take the next step and have him evaluated by an OT. I cannot even describe to you the difference between my son before therapy and after. His teachers adore him, he's starting to really pick up a lot at school, he's doing better holding pencils and crayons and actually using them, the list goes on and on.

You're on the right track! Good luck!!!
Nov 17, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		go with your gut, mom!
by: Anonymous

We had a lot of the same problems.... don't put it on the back burner, get all the help you can as early as you can... our son did not tie shoes, buttons, zippers etc (he is 10)... after 4 months in OT, he has improved greatly... I just wish when I noticed these things I would not have waited, thinking "I was making a mountain out of a moll hill" your his best advocate... go with your gut! Good Luck !
Nov 17, 2008
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starstarstarstarstar 		dear concerned mother
by: Anonymous

It sounds like you are describing my 8 year old son. I have a lot to say. Write me back at my email. darlene2@tampabay.rr.com if you want to talk.

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