Esperanza

If he is still in school, I don't think he would be eligible for SSI.

A 504 plan (I am a teacher) is provided for students who have a medical condition that may impede their learning. However, this is not a miracle cure for teaching students with your son's suspected condition. AND he is in a regular classroom setting with a teacher that may make accomodations, but is not trained to work with children such as your son. As you undoubtedly alreday know, these accomodations don't even begin to address the seriousness of your son's problem (particularly if it manifests in his behavior).

If you can get your child re-tested again through the school with the emphasis of "emotionally disturbed", then he may be found eligible to receive services as a behaviorly disordered child receives - smaller class size. He would be with a teacher who is trained to work with this type of student. If he is too young, there is alot of resistance in doing this type of testing, as it requires outside stimuli (being emotionally disturbed) that precipitates their inability to learn. Finally, if your child is "acting out" in class, of course seek services for behaviorly disordered. In all cases - the school will still only provide services to educate your child, not to treat them.

By the way, the only way he could be eligible to enter any of the programs just mentioned is if his IQ was average (90-110). When they were looking for "peeks and dips", they were trying to see if he had a learning disability (such as processing) that would impede him from learning. At least you have this going for you. In addition, most LD children have a dip in reading and do well in math.

I would ask the social worker for names of child psychologists and pursue this avenue at the same time. One doctor's opinion should not disway you from seeking out the help you son needs. I hope this helps and good luck.

[This message has been edited by Esperanza (edited 05-18-2003).]