Q: My 12-year-old son has low IQ. We have already done his medical test from AIIMS a year and a half back. As per the reports his IQ level is 70-75. After this test and the counsellor's advice, he is doing studies under the special observation of the teachers. Most of the time, he is getting simpler question papers, with extra time. Not only for studies, but for other things also, he needs all the things explained to him in detail, then only he is able to give the answer. Otherwise, whatever he writes as an answer, doesn't make any sense. His communication is also not proper. Even after getting a simpler question paper with extra time, he is not scoring well. He only gets 7-9 marks out of 50. What can we do in this matter? We don't want him to score full marks, but can he do better than this?

A:Your explanation has clarified the issue. It is not very practical to try and teach your son the regular curriculum. You will have to find some activity, which he can do well. It may be painting or simple weaving or clay modelling or music. Getting him to be engaged in what he can do reasonably well and likes to do is more important than his going through school subjects. He needs to have self help skills. The Indira Gandhi National Open University (located in Maidan Garhi, New Delhi 110078) was developing a non-credit course on Mental Retardation, intended for parents and those who work with retarded children. If that is available, you should send for it. There are many practical methods discussed in the material. He will require guidance whatever he undertakes and as you have observed, he will need things explained to him repeatedly and in detail. It is best that you reduce your expectations and teach him practical skills to occupy and interest him, rather than school work at 6th Standard level.