When my son started kindergarten I realized how far behind he was academically. His peers could all recite the alphabet and count way past ten. My son could not. He has problems associating the sounds of letters with the actual letters. His handwriting was illegible. I thought something wasn't right but his teachers encouraged me that he would "catch up." I wish I had known then what I know now. Of course, hind sight is always 20/20, right?

If you suspect that your child may have a learning disability, please know that you can request testing.  The request does not have to come from a teacher, principal or the like.  After all, you, as the parent, know your child better than anyone.  Go with your gut instinct if you feel something isn't quite right.

Requesting that your child be tested if fairly simple to do... it only requires a letter.  You can do that, right?  For a comprehensive guide that details every step in writing the letter and requesting that your child be tested, visit About.com.  They also offer an in depth explanation of exactly what constitutes special education services that you may want to read as well.

For a list of the many signs and symptoms of learning disabilities, you can visit LD Online.  Or, if you choose, you can take an assessment quiz on the About.com website.

Just remember, to be properly diagnosed, your child must be referred for testing.  The above quiz is for your information only.  You could include a copy of the quiz results with your letter for added documentation if you choose.

Take the initiative and advocate for your child.  You know him best and he is depending on you to get him the help he needs.