[becky]

I agree that it sounds as if the only way you are going to qualify is under the OHI 'label'. The problem with that is that the school system cannot diagnose it since it is a health issue. A doctor must diagnose the problem, then the school can put in a plan of action to meet the needs of the child.

You can wait until your evaluation, but then when you do not qualify under any other label for special services, they will tell you that you have to get a medical diagnosis and it may take months to schedule another meeting.

Call today...get your appointment with a specialist scheduled. As someone else mentioned, it may take a while to get in.

Ultimately, they will not provide services if your child's issue does not affect his ability to learn. While you can predict what the future may be like, there is no way at this point for the school to know. If he was in a preschool setting, it would be typical for the school to come and observe him in the classroom to see how his social behavior affected his learning. It may be difficult to recreate that at home during testing.

I wish the best for you, and I agree...you are his best advocate. Have your information ready, and do not take no for an answer. If they say he doesn't qualify, ask what you need to have for him to qualify. Keep pushing.

If you do not get services now, there may be some independent social services organizations that could help you. I know costs are high, but sometimes these organizations can help.

Good Luck!!