Q: My child either withdraws in social situations or becomes aggressive and inappropriate. At three, he can already read and is very verbal, but he panics at loud noises, jumping up and down and screaming. Can you help?
A: There are various aspects we might address in a more complete interview and observation of your child. From the information you give, it is possible that your child may have something like Asperger’s Syndrome, characterized by extreme sensitivity, especially to loud noises with a strong response such as flapping the hands and jumping. These children are often gifted verbally and become early readers; there is often difficulty with movement, balance, and social situations. If this is so, I have had success in working with children to overcome the extreme behaviors and develop social skills when the intervention is begun early, as in your three year old.
For more information on parenting Classes coming this fall, contact Glenda Moore at 314-646-0626 (after 3 pm) or visit online at www.climbingrosekindergarten.com.