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Ask the Educational Consultant: Tina Laredo, B.A. (Honors), B.ED
Tina Laredo has many years of experience dealing with issues such as Behavioural Management, ADD/HD, Special Education, Autism, and many more topics of concern to parents inside the classroom and out.
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QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
ANSWERS

	How do I improve my child's study habits?
	It is very important for your child to have his/her own workspace at home. This space should include all the necessary tools for completing homework such as, pencils, a sharpener, erasers, etc… It is crucial that there is a “homework-time” schedule in place. I advise my students to go straight home from school and take a half hour break from about 3:30-4:00. Then, they should complete their homework immediately. Beginning early allows time for the work to be completed efficiently and effectively. Once they have completed their assigned work (usually by diner time), they are free for the evening. This consistent schedule avoids procrastination and allows for family time in the evenings. This also leaves room for any questions the child may have about the assigned homework.
	My child has difficulty focusing in class and is falling behind in his studies. What can be done?
	I would advise that you schedule an interview with your child’s teacher, in order to discuss the frequency of your child’s lack of concentration. Is this occurring throughout the day? Is it happening when he is at his desk and completing work or/and during whole-class discussions on the carpet-area? Are there any subjects when he is completely focused? Also, inquire about your child’s seating arrangement. He should be strategically placed when he is sitting at his desk as well as when he is involved in lessons, on the carpet area. One possibility is to have his own workspace, where he is free from distractions from his peers. Another possibility is to place his desk next to a student who will be a good influence on his work habits. Having your child strategically placed in the classroom does not need to be a negative experience. It is important to explain to the child that this change will help him concentrate and therefore, improve his class performance. Also, explain that this change does not need to be permanent. Once he has learned to focus on the task at hand, he can sit next to a friend who he believes he can work well with. If there is subject that interests him, he can be given the opportunity to demonstrate his knowledge to another student or to the entire class.
	How do I get my child tested for Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or for any form of a Learning Disability (LD)?
	If you suspect that your child may be ADD or LD, then the school should bring in a specialist to test your child. Once you have the school’s test results, you should get a second opinion. You can talk to your family doctor for a referral.
	I am worried about my child being labeled. If I have my child tested and he has a form of LD, ADD or ADHD, will this not destroy his self-esteem?
	This is a very natural concern. The thought of our child being laughed at by other kids or adults thinking that something is “wrong” with our child is a very horrifying feeling. It is important to remember that ALL children have their strengths and their weaknesses. The truth is that many schools can and will only modify their program/curriculum if a child is officially diagnosed with a disorder. Accommodating students can help them catch up on their work as well as ensure that they are working at their ability level. If a child is working at their ability level, they are then able to complete work with ease, instead of becoming frustrated and feeling inadequate with work that is too difficult for them. They can then move up levels, once they have practiced and successfully completed the previous one. The key is that your child feels successful most of the time in school. This is what will motivate him/her to continue completing assignments and enjoy the entire school experience. Feeling happy will definitely contribute to a positive self-esteem

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