Special Needs Resources

What are Learning Disabilities?

Have you heard teachers or others call a child who can't do his or her homework "lazy?"  As a parent you may even think that this child just needs to concentrate more, stop goofing off, and get to work.  This could not be further from the truth with children who have learning disabilities.   A learning disability is disorder in how the brain receives and processes information which makes learning activities such as doing math, listening to instructions, reading, writing, spelling, and organizing ideas extremely difficult.  Children who have learning disabilities generally have intelligence levels that are average or higher than other children, but they may need additional support and resources to be successful in school.   These children need to be brought into a protective and supportive learning environment.  They need to feel heard and empowered by those who support their learning.

Could My Child Have ADHD? Dyslexia?

There are so many myths out there about learning disabilities.  And as a parent you need to find good resources that are based in fact and not pop psychology.    Each month, I will bring attention to a resource that I find helpful.  As an information professional,  I can point out resources to discuss with your health care professional and your child's educational team.  If you believe that your child may have a learning disability, the first step is to address this issue with your child's teacher and pediatrician to see if your child should receive a clinical evaluation and assessment.    This symptoms test may help you think of symptoms to discuss with your child's health care team.

Resources on ADHD

What is ADHD?  from the Centers for the Disease Control and Prevention.

ADHD Guide from ADDitude:  Inside the ADHD Mind

Books by Russell Barkley, one of the leading experts on ADHD and attention disorders.

Resources on Dyslexia

Dyslexia from the Learning Disabilities Association of America.

British Dyslexia Association

Books by Dr. Sally E. Shaywitz, a leading expert on Dyslexia.  She and her husband, Dr. Bennet A. Shaywitz  founded The Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity.

This Month's Resource

Organizing Your Child  By ADDitude 

A collection of tips for keeping your child's room, backpack, and desk clear of clutter--and how to get your child to keep up with the organizing.