One of my interests is the work of Dr. Howard Gardner and his theory of Multiple Intelligences. I have mentioned his theory in this column on other occasions because his research shows that we are all intelligent, but that we have different areas in which our intelligence manifests itself. Students with strong linguistic and logical-mathematical abilities are usually very successful in school. Your nephew, while showing some strength in the linguistic intelligence due to his reading ability, may more strongly associate with the bodily-kinesthetic intelligence, which means he desires more freedom of movement and less restriction. Using this information, we may be able to come up with a course of action to help your nephew find more success in school.
Environmental issues are a factor in a child's ability to focus.
If the environment contains too many distractions, a child can easily stray from the task at hand. Your nephew's parents can create an environment that is conducive to learning at home, but it may take some creativity on their part. A quiet area, free from television and stereo noise, is ideal for a easily distracted student. It should not be in a central meeting area or a main thoroughfare in the home where people are constantly passing through or stopping to chat. If necessary, the parents can even devise a kind of study carrel to limit distractions even further.