I have received this question in some variation a lot lately.  First let’s talk a little about what an indigo child is and what the pros and cons are of your student being classified as an indigo child.

According to the New Age Journal, your child may be “indigo” (sometimes known as “crystal”):

Gone are the days of threatening “Wait till your father gets home,” or “You’ll be suspended,” the indigos don’t care! They have inner-lie detectors and will not be manipulated nor fall for hidden agendas. They are very head strong and do not like to be told what to do, nor do they want to do it your way. If we do not break out of our old control habits, threat habits or any other destructive behavior, they will show us that we must learn new methods in order for peace to prevail! This is done through heart connections, with love. They simply do not have the ability to disassociate from their feelings and pretend that everything is okay. They respond the best to all situations when they are treated like a respected adult. If we are acting childish in a manipulating, hurtful way, they will mirror back to us our own behavior. This causes more frustration within ourselves than it does within them! Their goal is for US to change, not them. Their horns toot “Treat others as you would want to be treated!” They are not shy in letting you know exactly what they need. Watch them. They have no hidden agenda. They are our teachers! (Source here!):

The journal continues to say that most indigo children have been wrongly diagnosed with ADD / ADHD and are acting out to buck the system and usher in a new way of doing things.

First let’s start with the positive, isn’t it great to acknowledge every student’s individuality and use their unique perspectives to spark systemic change?  I think it is amazing to honor and respect what makes our students different and acknowledge the special contribution each student can make, despite any classification.  I also agree with the many different recommendations to foster the spirit of the indigo child, such as exercise, being in touch with nature, keeping electronics out of the bedroom and in certain cases energy healing.  These techniques can benefit all students despite their classifications.

Well you know this was coming, and here it is, if you chose to ascribe to the idea that your child is simply “indigo” in lieu of a formal and legal classification, you may risk in-class and after school accommodations.  In order for a student to receive accommodations in school, it is likely that he or she will need either a suspected or an actual cognitive diagnosis such as ADD/ADHD or a condition on the Autism spectrum.  With that said, it is important to not let a diagnosis define your student and if the student feels more comfortable identifying at home as “indigo”, more power to your family!  Just be careful and cognizant as to how you advocate for your student at IEP meetings and in more informal settings.