Some kids are laser-focused on the playing field, but lost in left field while in the classroom. Others can hold it together during the school day, but fall apart once they get home.
As a special educator, I have witnessed first-hand as youngsters and their families struggle with learning issues related to focus. They approach the topic with a range of responses.
“That’s the way my kid is, and I’m not going to change her.”
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“He’s just like his dad—forgetful, and he’ll be just as successful as his dad.”
“Her medication works okay, but it doesn’t kick in until the middle of the morning.”
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“I lose my appetite with the medication and it’s hard to stay in shape for sports.”
“Every morning/afternoon/bedtime is a nightmare.”
In all cases, the students want to be their best, while their parents want the best for them.
What most concerns me is the social and emotion pain experienced by students who cannot achieve or behave as expected. Sometimes this pain leads to seriously scary places including substance abuse or self-harm.
As an educator, I am drawn to brain research that sheds light on the learning process. Dr. Philippe Grandjean, Adjunct Professor of Environmental Health, Harvard University School of Public Health, writes, “Overall, genetic factors seem to account for no more than perhaps 30‑40% of all cases of neurodevelopmental disorders”. (Lancet Neurol 2014; 13: 330–38) This means that approximately 60% of ADD, ADHD, and ASD cases have environmental links.
As a lifelong learner, I find it fascinating to learn that parents have found a break-through product that is natural, third party tested, with no known negative side effects. This product targets toxins that affect brain health.
If you would like to learn more, call Liz at 781-797-0698.
