Executive Dysfunction????

[loveforeric]

Hi;
I have a question. My son, Eric(9yrs.) has a huge problem with writing and thinking at the same time.

A Doc. told us to take him to the school Psych. to be evaluated for Executive Dysfuntion. Just curious, What is that exactly? Does anyoneknow?

Any help would be great,
Christina

[rosyred45]

www.grandrounds.com/audiograph/stahl/

I've never heard of it before, but I hope this site helps.

[eaccae]

Exectutive Dysfunction has to do with planning and executing tasks. It is extremely common with adhd. But there are also processing LDs that don't fall under Executive Dysfunction - I would have the school test for these, ask for Written Language tests, some processing tests, dysgraphia tests . . . write a letter explaining the problem and ask for tests that specifically address this problem.

DS has Executive Dysfunction but he also has a SEPARATE problem with Dysgraphia. If you give him the TOWL test - he will score "High Average" - if you ask him to verbally tell you a story - it will be complex, articulated very well, high vocabulary . . . he has an incredible vocabulary . . .out of all the other 4th graders - he is at one of the highest reading levels - can read anything, can verbally give an answer tell so much - no comprhension issues at all - but ask him to write down answers to some questions and you will get illegible writing, misspelled words every where (even though he ALWAYS aces his spelling tests) and an answer similar to that of a kindergartner. He cannot organize his thoughts when it comes to writing at all - BUT it is NOT from Executive Dysfunction - but instead from his Dysgraphia. He has a neurological problem that makes actual - physical writing extremely difficult which they believe is getting in the way of his ability to write - he is trying sooo hard on the mechanics he is unable to focus at all on the content, spelling, etc.. That is what I have been told by the psychologist and the school. I don't know if this helps at all?

Here is a link to an article I found on LDOnline:
Lazy Kid or Excecutive Dysfunction?

school behavior.com - the "executive functions"

[loveforeric]

Elizabeth;

Thanks for the information. Eric has a problem with writing becuase he says it physically hurts his hand and because when he goes to write something down he can't because the thoughts get messed up if he writes.

He can't think and wirte at the same time, then he gets frustrated and doesn't want to do it. Also, he has to go really slow or he just gets stuck.

I will call the school to ask for some tests.

Have a peaceful day,
Christina


PS. Kaiti, Thanks for the website. Checking it out tomorrow.

[eaccae]

Christina,

Sounds like dysgraphia. (Just like Alexander!! BTW - he tested FANTASTICALLY for visual/spacial but he has trouble with spacing, writing on the lines, copying . . . and has absolutely NO muscle weakness - but it is TERRIBLY painful for him to write).

Below are a few good links for you to check out.


Dysgraphia *note the last line under signs and symptoms

What is Dysgraphia

Dysgraphia: Learning Disabilities in Writing

Strategies for Dealing With Dysgraphia

Also - we had tried Handwriting Without Tears a few years ago and it didn't take too well (but I think that is because there was too much going on). We broke it out again halfway through the summer and it has helped a little (not ALOT but enough - and Alexander seems to like it and will actually practice with it). He has the printing and the cursive books. We also are now using the regular HWT paper for his writing in school and his homework (and mechanical pencils for both as well) - it seems to make it much easier for him right now.

[loveforeric]

I looked on the link. That really sounds like Eric. All the symptoms make sense.

Eric is the same way visually and spatially. Always does well with Directionality and visual cues. But don't ask him to write.

Have a great day,
Christina