student that does nothing

March Baby · **student that does nothing** 11-03-2009, 12:18 PM

I have a student (fourth grade) that literally does nothing during centers. They will look like they are reading or they will sit there with something on their desk and just zone out. I have tried everything I can think of and I am out of ideas. How can I get this kid to do something? Parents are using this child's diagnosis of ADHD as an excuse saying that maybe they aren't capable. I send things home and nothing comes back. Meanwhile, it is my fault that this kid is failing because I don't know how to teach a child with ADHD (their thoughts). AARGH!

ecsmom · 11-03-2009, 12:44 PM

Can he partner with someone that will help keep him on task during centers? As far as the missing homework, document and send daily notes in his folder (or pinned to his shirt if the parents never check the folder)

me41 · **kids** 11-03-2009, 04:28 PM

Is there paperwork that needs to be done? If there is something that gets turned in and is not getting turned in I would keep these kids in for recess, give them infractions/detentions or some other type of consequence.

I personally would not want to assign them helpers. It stinks when you are the smart kid and teachers act like you should tutor the others. You could ask for volunteers if you want to partner them, I suppose.

Is he is on meds for ADHD? If not and parents use that ask them to return to the doctor.

March Baby · **not on meds** 11-03-2009, 05:03 PM

The parents don't believe in them. I can't give the child a partner because I have a class of 20 and they are the lowest without being in special ed. This child doesn't read, doesn't do any of the paperwork nor does the child read independently or with a partner. I keep the child in for recess but that is only 10 minutes and they still don't get anything done because someone isn't standing over them giving them one on one the whole time.

TitleMathCA · 11-04-2009, 01:20 PM

Sounds like the kid should be your partner for part of centers.

me41 · **r word** 11-04-2009, 03:24 PM

Can you bring up retention? Sounds like he is a ideal for another year. He cannot be passing anything. Or is there another class he would qualify for? Can he get an aide?

I would have a big heart to heart with these parents and ask them about their expectations. If they want him to be successful they need to take an active role in his education.

How about homeschooling?

ecsmom · 11-04-2009, 05:19 PM

We call it peer tutoring. Many times a child can help another child undersyand better than an adult can.