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attention/focus


Wed, September 30, 2009 12:00 AM

Does anyone else out there have problems with Crohn's or UC kids and attention/focus issues?

My son is in 5th grade and NOT having a good relationship with his teacher. I am just about at my wits end! I have consulted w/Dr.'s who say the issues are directly related to the UC and as such is not a true issue. When the inflammation is under control the inattention should diminish, and it generally does.

Even if there was a diagnosis of an attention disorder, I would be VERY reluctant to put him on meds for it. He's already on meds since he was 2 and I won't add to the mix.

I'm hoping someone might have tricks and tips they use at home or even better, in the classroom to get the kids back on task.

Thanks-and I'm LOVING this board. When IBD hits kids so young it's great to know others are or have been there and are willing to share!

FPO mattsmom1
Joined Sep 16, 2009

Sat, October 03, 2009 1:44 PM

 Reply posted for mattsmom1.

My daughter has not had too much trouble with attention / focus, but many children do.   I agree 100% w/you re: add/adhd meds.    They are over prescribed in my opinion big time.  

There are several things you may want to try.   Let's face it, we all come in contact with people in our lives that we simply don't gel with.  When my oldest daughter (who doesn't have CD) was in 5th grade, she couldn't stand her teacher.   After a meeting with the teacher, I could understand why (isn't that funny).   I sat my daughter down and explained that sometimes people don't see eye to eye, and agree to disagree.   I also encouraged her to "USE" her.   She was interested when I said that word.  USE her for everything she knows.....she is smart and has a lot to offer.   You don't need to LOVE her, just USE her.    Guess what, it worked.   The grades went up, they never saw eye to eye, but who cares.    That was 3 years ago.....it's history.

Another thing you could try is a touch of bribery.  Cut him a deal.....anything, could be week of hard work in school you treat him to whatever (small something he likes)......Batting cages, mini golf, bowling, something he can look forward to.

Something else that comes to mind if he has a hard time sitting still in class and tends to get up and wonder the room is a "wiggle band".   It is a band that can be put on the front legs of his classroom chair and every time he gets the thought of getting up, he would simply just tuck his feet behind the band.  

I know being a Mom is so hard, especially when our kids have "special bellies", it adds a lot of stress to the everyday.   Work with your son's teacher, your son, it will all come together. 

My best to you and your family.

Lizzies Mom

 

FPO lizzies mom
Joined Sep 9, 2009

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