The first step on the road of intervention is to have the child evaluated for a learning disability. Testing is performed by a professional with appropriate training and experience for a knowledgeable judgment. The child's academic performance and school records are examined, as are her health records and family history. The professional evaluator uncovers the child's strengths and weaknesses, discusses the findings with the parents and, in some cases, provides a specific diagnosis of the learning disability, such as dyslexia.
After a full evaluation, recommendations are made to help the child cope with and compensate for his learning disability. These recommendations should be discussed with the child's teachers and therapists to develop strategies for improved learning. Recommendations are often prioritized to address the most critical areas of trouble first, which can result in greater success than trying to tackle every problem at once.
A child with learning disabilities may require additional accommodations for easier learning, including the creation of an individualized education program that meets her specific needs. A student with reading difficulties can use audio equipment that allows her to "read along" with assignments and other printed materials. Memory problems can be countered with tape recordings and mnemonic techniques.
Throughout intervention, the child's progress should be monitored constantly with re-evaluation of advancements at a predetermined time. Re-evaluating the child's abilities after a period of intervention helps to identify areas that may or may not be improving, resulting in a revised education plan to address problem areas.