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By pjm

Hi
Well, if her dad is concerned what does it hurt to test? I always like to have the kids identified earlier than later. That way self-esteem isn't zapped and the kids don't begin to tell themselves they must be stupid
because they can't do what the other kids can. The risk in trying to identify too early is that the severe discrepancy may not show up because she may not be far enough behind. Does that make sense? To qualify for special ed there must be a descrepancy between performance and IQ so does she have an area that she shines in or is she low across the board? If she has the shine and the

difficulty then maybe a disability. If she is just low across the board then maybe she's working as best she can because she has a lower IQ. If that is the case she may not qualify for special ed.

Since the communication with dad has already began why don't you call him in for a conference and ask what he wants to do. Present all the options and see what he thinks. I would recommend a full psyc and it wouldn't have to be with a neurologist to begin with. Does your school have a competent psychologist that you recommend to dad? If they suspect neurological problems they will recommend further testing with him/her. Otherwise have him go to his own doctor and get a recommendation.