Hi Everyone,
Haven’t posted in a long time but I have always found your words of support and advice invaluable.
My son is 16 (hs junior), with receptive central auditory processing. Through the years I have fought a constant battle with the schools who find reasons not to provide such simple things as study guides. To be honest, if it weren’t for his private speech therapist and the occasional tutor, he would not have gotten much of an education.
My problem now is his attitude. He has always hated studying and the battles are becoming more pitched. He has outlets where he shines-music and sports. I don’t care about the grades but he does need to do his work and try his best. I have also pointed out that the school’s policy is that he must be passing his classes in order to participate in any after school sports. Not getting through to him.
I am feeling totally burned out. Like a failure and I don’t know what to do.
Any suggestions??
K
Burned Out!
Has he ever worked with a therapist? Part of the anger and frustration could be linked to his feelings of never getting anywhere. Working with a therapist may help him deal more positively with those issues.
Re: Burned Out!
Parents who do what we do have personal strength that is amazing. You need to take some time for yourself and realize that your well being is always most important in order to be there for your child. The teen years are so tough and incredibly complicated by these additional challenges.
Allow yourself to feel frustrated and exhausted. Get some extra rest and focus on what you can control. Is there a person at school, a counselor or special teacher who you can talk to?
My daughter and I just published a book, [u]Surviving Learning Disabilties Successfully. [/u]It is a book of hope and inspiration. We have been where you are. She graduated from college in 2006. Maybe her story will help you and your son.
Good luck! You are doing the most difficult and special job.
Burned Out!
I’m there with you. Different diagnosis, same issues.
Do natural consequences work with my child? No, never has. Praising him when I see him doing something good only causes him to stop doing it because he thinks he did enough.
My mantra this year is only a few more years to go…..
I can relate to everything you just said. Exhaussted, overwhelmed, etc, I believe in natural consquences. I can only do so much, and my son has to take responsibility.
If he misses a football game or weigh in or for wrestling, I have to remember is it that big of a deal? His education/boundaries commitment have to be of importance too.
Just my opinion.