Correcting deficits vs. encouraging gifts?

[Guest guest]

I have a 6 yr old son recently diagnosed with AS with attention dysfunction. He

is an OCD subtype with strong physical reactions, therefore we are on a

rollercoaster with him getting kicked off the bus, pulled out of phys ed, pulled

out of activities, etc. We and the school are starting on

Winner's approaches. He recently scored exceptionally high on his MAP test and

the doctor suggested we have him further tested for classification as a gifted

child. I just love purusing his interests with him - scientific experiments,

math equations, reading progress, etc. However, we are spending much more time

now on behavior modification and socialization to cooperate with the school and

our doctor's recommendations, and to simply try to get him to function

reasonably well in life. His anxiety level is markedly higher now. I think he

does better when we spend more time at home on his interests - this appears to

reduce his anxiety. What have you found works better long-term - correcting

deficits, encouraging gifts, or a balance of both?