I've heard of auditory processing disorder (APD.) Could my child have that instead of AD/HD?

Auditory processing disorder is a condition where something is adversely affecting the way someone processes or interprets the information that comes from the sounds around them.  It involves difficulties with listening, or with recognzing differences in the sounds within words. Advances in technology have enabled specialists to better explore and understand various types of difficulties involving hearing. If you suspect a listening or hearing problem, a comprehensive hearing test may be necessary. Ask your doctor or school about a referral to an audiologist. This could be part of a comprehensive evaluation for AD/HD.

For more information on auditory processing disorder:

• National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders: Auditory Processing Disorder

Further sources of information and possible professional referrals include:  

• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association at 1-800-638-8255 or www.asha.org
• Academy of Audiology at 1-800-AAA-2336 or www.audiology.org.
• Better Hearing Institute -  www.betterhearing.org