[careyberry]

Our DS has a diagnosis of PDD_NOS and ADHD. He is very high functioning. His key problems are language (not speech), abstract thinking and comprehension. Other issues include anxiety and OCD-like issues which stem from the Autism.

So, here's our dilemma--in a nut shell. He is a gen ed class at school and goes to resource when he needs help. He absolutely loves going to school, but I think it's mainly for the routine. The teachers are always telling me how bright he is and how well he's doing. He does not have any close friends and prefers to play alone. His social skills are not that of an average child his age. He is picked on quite a bit. As he nears puberty and things get more difficult I wonder what our options are if we took him out of public education. There are several private schools, some dealing with learning disabilities, in our area, but they are way too expensive.

We thought about HS, but honestly I don't think I could be his teacher. I am "mom", to him, I have no other job. When I try to study with him, it always turns ugly. Many others, including his MD, agree it would not be wise.

Any advice would be great! TIA!!

[lattegirl]

It is always difficult to go from "just mom" to "teacher"- no matter who the child is- especially those that have been in a school setting. So, do not feel you are alone in that one. As far as routines- if you choose to homeschool, you will develop your own routine for him. I know there are resources available to homeschool children with learning disabilities- however, I do not have any experience with that. It is not uncommon though. Remember that you are his mother and know him best. You have been teaching him since day one- whether you knew it or not.
Not all that clear-cut- but I hope it helps a little.

[awatts04]

My 11 yr old son has ADHD/PDD and his problem is definitely more social than smart. He sounds just like your son. I personally don't want to hs him because he has enough social difficulties that he needs to learn to get through, without me closing him in. He goes to school, has his problems, but we get through them.Just my opinion.

[sunshinejanie]

My daughters adhd and the schools unwillingness to help is one of the factors in deciding to homeschool for me.

[Momtoabunch]

Here is a good place to start: LearningAbledKids - Help for Homeschooling children with Learning Disabilities

Although homeschooling may not be for everyone, for many children, with and without disabilities, coming home to be educated helps them to realize and develop their strengths without the added stress of the social environment.

While considering homeschooling I thought much the same as you, that I couldn't be both mom and teacher, but in reality you already are. You'll find what style of education works best for you through trial and error. But you'll never know if you don't try.

I'd also suggest checking out Mary Pride's book from the library.

[careyberry]

I appreciate everyone's suggestions.
I am wondering if a co-op homeschool environment would be a good choice. I'm not sure what the "rules" are regarding this, but I know of groups that meet. I could see him doing really well in a private HS setting with others his age.

[Lovin Savin]

Id like to add that if you do decide to homeschool, remember that there will be an adjustment period for both of you. It will be like becoming a Mom for the first time for you, wishing you had a users manual included with the new baby LOL. If certain things dont work well for you, try a different approach, hes not going to get behind if it takes you a couple of months to really figure out what works best for you. Let him guide you with his interests and strengths. As long as he is interested he will be learning and growing I wish you all the best in making your decision!

Perhaps the local co-op you spoke of would let you attend a couple of sessions during the summer (if they meet then?) and that would help you see what that is like.