Dear Terry:

The behaviors you describe suggest a possible Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Have your grandson’s parents explored this possibility with their family physician?

This is a difficult problem that many people struggle with, whether they have a disability or not.

Students with learning disabilities and ADHD can often struggle with motor control, movement, rhythm and directionality (i.e., telling right from left), which can make certain physical activities i

Sleep apnea can cause the child to be tired during school hours. If tired, he might be inattentive. I suggest that the sleep apnea be treated first.

Dear AM,

The formal criteria for diagnosing someone of any age with ADHD is in a diagnostic manual called the DSM-IV.

About 50 percent of children with ADHD also have Learning Disabilities. Your son sounds like this might be true for him.

There are many tools which can help your child stay organized. A handheld organizer may work, but even simpler things, like a day planner, may work just as well.

You are wise to ask for help.