My son just turned 11 last month. We found out February that he has TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury) possibly since birth. At the age of 5 he was diagnosed ADHD by his doctor, and he prescribed him some meds. None of the meds were working so I eventually took him to a therapist and psychiatrist. The psychiatrist and therapist would work with each other to try and help my son. The psychiatrist tried several different medicines over a couple of years, and also diagnosed him as bipolar. Things just weren't working and my son seemed to be misbehaving even more. After trying everything possible his psychiatrist suggested a QEEG. I found a neurotherapist that does QEEG's and neurotherapy. The QEEG showed the brain damage and it was severe. My son has had major problems at school. He is now 11 and is off all of the meds and just attended his 50th neurotherapy session. I have noticed many changes in his behavior for the better, but he is so far behind in school that I don't know what to do. Once he is done with his neurotherapy I will be getting him back in to turtoring at Huntington Learning Center or somewhere like that, but I'm also trying to find a private school that can help him get caught up. I'm looking for a school with small classes with other children with the same learning issues. I do not want him in a school for kids with bad behavior. His behavior has improved drastically. I just want him to get caught up in school. He is supposed to start 6th grade this fall.
This school is perfect for what you are looking for.
http://www.briarwoodschool.org/
My brother-in-law had learning disabilities and attended Parrish School. It is a great school. He is now in college. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Good for you for being an informed parent.
Have you considered homeschooling? If you're a SAHM with a supportive husband, you are in a perfect position to give your son that gift, even if it's only for a while until you get him caught up (yes, even with a toddler). I'm not familiar with the private school options out there, but I can guarantee homeschooling is WAAAY cheaper! You may need some time to let you and your son decompress from the pressures of school in the beginning, but at home you can accomplish a huge amount in a much smaller amount of time, and no teacher anywhere loves your child like you do. And please do keep in mind that at age 11, with the issues he's had, he's really not that far behind at all. There is also an absolutely huge homeschooling network in Texas, and there are parents out there that have done it with kids with just about every special need there is.
Best wishes.
R.-
My son is at Briarwood and I highly recommend it. The classes are small and will give your son the attention that he needs. I won't lie to you - it is expensive but well worth it.
Good luck!
L.
I have heard that the Parrish School (off I-10 somewhere) is an excellent place for children with learning problems. They are on the high end tuition-wise, but, if you can afford them, they would be an excellent place for your son. (They may have a scholarship program--wouldn't hurt to ask!)
http://www.monarchschool.org/AboutUsIntroduction.html
I am a retired high school teacher in HISD. I do not personally know anyone who sent a child to the Monarch School, but I know it has a good reputation. I would advise you to try to send your son there this summer if at all possible rather than Huntington, because it sounds as though he needs the specialized help the Monarch School would be better equipped to provide.
R.,
I am sorry that I don't have any advice or information to share with you, but I feel compelled to respond with a quick note to let you know what a great mom and role model you are for being such an advocate for your son. In the past there have been moms that have posted requests that talk about how they are ready to give up because they just can't deal with their child's severe behavior issues anymore so it's so good to read your post of how you didn't give up. Going to doctors, trying new meds, going to therapies, etc take a lot of work and money, but it's worth it all when your child prevails in the end. I am so glad to hear that your son is doing well. I am sure it is frustrating for you and your son that he is so far behind in school, but with time and diligence I'm sure he will make some definite gains. Good luck to you both and congratulations on hanging in there and doing the best you can for your son!
