The official diagnostic manual (DSM-IV-TR) lists only one Motor Skills Disorder — “Developmental Coordination Disorder.” The task force planning DSM-V is aware that there will be a need to identify

Yes, learning disabilities can be heavily familial. They do run in families.

Most children reverse letters and numbers until about five or six, some longer. I would not be worried. Watch and see if this pattern disappears by the time she finishes kindergarten.

Most school systems will not evaluate a child until the end of third grade. However, if you are concerned, and especially if there is a family history of LD, you should push for an assessment.

I understand your concerns. You describe several difficulties that might suggest that your son might have a learning or language disability.

Rachel: I am so pleased to hear you describe your problems. All too often, I see young adults who spend all of their time blaming others for their difficulties. You are correct.

It is unfortunate that you have had to struggle for so many years. The first step would be to clarify if you have dyslexia, another form of a learning disability, or some other problem.

I cannot help with the overload of paperwork. This is a common complaint by special education professionals.

Under the public law, IDEA, every public school program must have a Child Find program to evaluate children ages 3 to 5 who appear to be delayed in any area of development prior to entering kinderg

Guy: