I have an 8 year old son with ADHD. He was clinically diagnosed at age 6 but his bad behavior and social problems have been present since preschool at age 4. He had to do Kindergarten twice since he was young and needed to mature and everyone thought that was his problem but ultimately it was not.

My 5 year old son started displaying the same social and behaviorial problems last year in preschool and kindergarten isn't going so well right now. His pediatrician wants to wait until he his six to do testing. But I worry he will be labeled the problem child at school waiting until then as he will not be 6 until June 2008. Do I put my foot down and insist on testing now with all the notes from the teacher in my hands?

I'd listen to the pediatrician, although I'm not sure how much will change before June. He might have settled down a little by then and the ADD assessment may be more accurate.

I'm not an expert on this sort of thing but I'm sure someone with experience will reply to you soon :)

Hi Jenhester,

So, does your older son have his ADHD managed by his pediatrician, or does he see a psychiatrist? If he see's a psychiatrist, then I would be making an appointment with the psychiatrist posthaste. If he has been managed by a pediatrician, then I would look into finding a child psychiatrist closest to your area (call the local Mental Health Clinic). If you are not sure where to look, pm me and I would be happy to look up your area and help you locate some assistance. I have worked in mental health for a while, it is never a bad idea to have your child tested.

I wish you luck,

At Heart

The pediatric practice guidelines refer to testing kids from 6-12. Pediatricians that do not specialize in ADHD will stick to those guidelines. A child psychiatrist that deals with younger kids with ADHD, or a child development team (at a children's hospital or university) will be more likely to perform evaluations at an earlier age. They have the expertise and background that pediatricians usually lack.