discipline
Detecting Learning Difficulties
Although many of the following conditions are often true of those without learning difficulties, a pronounced difficulty in one or more of these areas may indicate that a physician should diagnose the problem.
Symptoms in preschoolers
By age 1, the child cannot do one or more of the following:
- say "Mama"
- play peek-a-boo
- wave bye-bye
- respond to his name
- sit up on his own
By age 2, he does not:
- say the names of a few toys
- imitate parents
- seem capable of identifying eyes, ears, nose and mouth
- walk unaided
By age 3, he does not:
- repeat simple rhymes
- enjoy playing alone with toys
- understand simple stories
- navigate stairs
By age 4, he does not:
- talk in short sentences
- enjoy playing with other children
- give correct answers to simple questions
- balance on one foot
By age 5, he is not:
- understood outside the family
- sharing or taking turns
- understanding the words "yesterday," "today" and "tomorrow"
- capable of throwing overhand
- catching a ball
Symptoms in youngsters and adults
- He has difficulty understanding spoken directions.
- He has trouble pronouncing a word until someone says it for him.
- He tries to treat people well, but often says something inappropriate.
- He has difficulty following written instructions.
- In writing, he leaves out or reverses words or letters.
- He knows his way around town until a street is torn up or a building is removed.
- He usually mismatches clothes.
- He is disorganized and can't find belongings.
- He reads and writes well, but can't balance a checkbook.
- He is clumsy.
- He has poor coordination in writing or drawing.
- He is easily annoyed.
- He tends to act impulsively.
- He is either extremely over- or under-active.
- He has a short attention span.
Background Information
Journey of No Return
Sometimes as parents, we have a knee-jerk response to our kids as we're barraged by their numerous inquires and desires. Maybe it's time to stop being so negative.
When Not To Discipline
Parents should recognize when they should and shouldn't discipline their children.
When You Feel Like Calling in the SWAT Team
Are your children constantly testing you? This classic parenting advice will help you regain the upper hand.
Questions and Answers
After I spank my child, she usually wants to hug me and make up, but I continue to be cool to her for a few hours. Do you think that is right?
Answer
We'd like to be more unified in our approach, but how do we successfully move from two financial approaches to one?
Answer
How long do you think a child should be allowed to cry after being punished? Is there a limit?
Answer
I have never spanked my 3-year-old because I am afraid it will teach her to hit others and be a violent person. Do you think I am wrong?
Answer
It just seems barbaric to cause pain to a defenseless child. Is it healthy to spank him or her?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Ten Things Toddlers Wish They Could Tell You
It can do wonders for the frazzled parent to know what's going on in the mind of your little one.
Related Topics
Transitions: Having a Baby, Preparing for Adolescence
Life Pressures: Working Moms, Stay-At-Home Moms, Time for Family
Relationships: Parents and Adult Children, Blended Families
