What could be wrong?
After doing lots of research, and SEVERAL doctors, it was discovered that she had a neurological disorder called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
LINKS
National Attention Deficit Disorder Association
Chidren and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder
We have spent several years tying to find the right medication, at the right dosage, as she grows and changes into a young woman.
Another problem started showing itself, as she gained more and more control over her ADHD. Again, I was told that she just wasn't trying, and that she was willfully refusing to write correctly.
In second grade, the teacher would often keep her in during recess, making her rewrite her assignments.
Writing and many different things that involve her working with her hands, such as cutting meat, brushing her hair, tieing shoes, coloring pictures, using scissors, etc. were all very difficult for her.
Again, I found myself doing research and asking questions. From the research I had done, it looked like she might have a learning disorder called DYSGRAPHIA. On January 21,1999, she was officially diagnosed with this disorder.
LINKS
Specific Learning Disabilities
Amy was diagnosed formally with Asperger's Syndrome the summer of 1999. There are some links to different sites talking about Aspergers.
Online Asperger Syndrome Information and Support
There is lots of hope for kids with these difficulties. But the best hope, is education about what these disabilities are and are not. It is really hard sometimes to weed out the truth from the fiction, and it can be difficult not listen to so called professionals, and believe in your child, and trusting your "gut feelings".