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Discussion Title: I'm afraid its too late
Created by: deedee
Created on: Fri, 07/03/2009 - 5:56am.

Our child has always had trouble in school. This past year he completely shut down. He barely passed the 8th grade due to the simple fact he didnt even turn in homework for even for just a completion grade. He has no desire whatsoever. We've had dr's, councelors, summer school, extra special programs, even drug testing, all to no avail. We dont seem to be able to communicate with our child, he is getting poor grades and we don't know how to help. He just flunked out of summer school. He will start high school in the fall and we are very very worried. I currently have meetings set us with the high school councelor and the principle, but we do this every year. Does anyone have any kind of advise?!?!?!?

Author: 2xstepmom
Replied: 7/4/2009 8:43am.

Have you taken your son to be evaluated for depression? Your description of the situation sounds like that could be the issue here. Lack of interest/desire and shutting down are symptoms of depression.

How is he being promoted to high school if he flunked out of summer school and has poor grades? Does he have friends? How does he function in your family? This must be very frustrating for you all and difficult to handle. What kind of trouble in school has he had?

Author: concerned ...
Replied: 7/8/2009 10:17am.

Yes, I wld look into this further. Maybe something's going on other than the fact that your son is having difficulty w/ his work. Has he always been like this? You need to pinpoint where the problem lies. If you know your son has no learning problems, and he's capable of doing the work, there may be another reason why he's not applying himself. I wld seek counceling first w/ a private therapist. I wld also look into tutoring if in fact your son is finding the work to be hard. Best of luck.