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How to Help Kids With Learning Disabilities

A learning disability is a neurological problem, meaning people have learning difficulties due to differences in the brain structure or function. A person with learning disabilities has normal intelligence but a problem in one or more learning areas. Learning disabilities affect language, including spoken, heard, written or processing, math, reasoning, memory skills, organization, physical coordination, and social skills (see reference 2). Approximately 5 to 10 percent of school-age children have learning disabilities, and the most common learning disability is dyslexia, or reading disabilities (see reference 2).

Instructions

  1. How to Help Kids with Learning Disabilities

    • 1

      Talk about the learning disability with your child, family, and friends. Be open and explain what the disability is and what it means to your child to have it. Don't act like it's some kind of dreaded family secret, or something your child should be embarrassed about. By keeping conversation about learning disabilities relaxed, your child will feel more comfortable about it.

    • 2

      Foster a healthy lifestyle for the whole family. That means consistent schedules, particularly bedtimes, so the child gets enough sleep. That also includes healthy eating, plenty of physical exercise and positive discipline. The child should not be made to feel different within the family by having radically different rules, diet or schedules than the rest of the family.

    • 3

      Be your child's strongest school advocate. Learn everything you can about your child's disability by reading up on it and joining support groups. Work closely with the school to develop your child's IEP, or individualized education plan, and with your child's teacher to implement it. Don't wait until regular conference times to talk to the teacher. Have regular conversation to make certain your child is doing as well as is possible. Brainstorm solutions together to any current problems your child has.

    • 4

      Discover your child's learning strengths. Every child has a mode of learning that is stronger, or better developed. Find out about your child's preferences. Does she learn best by listening or by visual cues? Does he process information best when he has the opportunity to physical handle materials? Does your child need to be on the move to learn best? What about lighting, sound and seating preferences? Additionally, what subjects ignite your child's interests and does your child excel in?

    • 5

      Focus on life success not just academic success. It's easy to get caught up in what it takes for your child to get the best grades possible. It's best to think bigger picture. Life is much more than academic skills. Give your child as many opportunities as possible to experience the thrill of achievement and success. Sports, arts, theater, entrepreneurial experiences, social outings and hobbies of all kinds can bring positive experiences into your child's life. Success builds confidence which builds more success.

    • 6

      Build an environment rich in learning experiences and for building independence. Have lots of books and art materials around your home, and equipment and routines that build in a variety of physical exercise. Take family outings to zoos, museums, and parks.

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