How to Deal with a Child's Learning Disability

In the United States about 13 percent of school age children have an LD diagnosis, or learning disability. Learning disabilities, according to the American Association of Pediatrics, are conditions that make it difficult for a child to master specific skills such as reading or math. Diagnosing learning disabilities requires evaluations such as IQ and academic achievement tests.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Patience
• Persistence
• Knowledge of the education system
• Understanding of your child's rights

1. Get in touch with your child's teacher if you suspect a learning disability. This usually comes after repeated problems in the classroom in the areas of focus and performance.

2. Set up a conference with the teacher to determine what has been done and what steps have already been taken. First efforts can include changing the child's seat, providing extra help, removing distractions or limiting assignments.

3. Document all meetings, phone calls and conferences with the teacher regarding your child's progress. Include what changes you are making in the home environment.

4. Schedule or request a staffing meeting with teachers, administrators, guidance counselors and support staff regarding your child. During this meeting, or prior to it, request a psychological evaluation of your child.

5. Continue to request modifications within the classroom while waiting for testing or testing results. This can take a while, so consider paying for private testing to speed up the process.

6. Educate yourself about the different types of learning disabilities. When you have a diagnosis, you'll be better prepared.

7. Focus on your child's strengths during the process. Find ways to increase his self esteem and give him opportunities to be successful.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you have a diagnosis make sure all instructors, administrators and support staff are following your child's IEP- Individual Education Plan. If the IEP needs re-evaluating, request another meeting.
• Join a support group of parents of children with learning disabilities.
• Educate family and friends about your child's learning style to avoid conflicts or misunderstandings.
• Many children who show signs of having a learning disability may have other conditions like ADHD or Autism. The best place to begin any evaluation process is with your child's pediatrician.
• Be aware that the evaluation process can be lengthy when done through a school system. Getting outside testing can get things moving faster, which is always in the best interest of the child with a learning disability.

Resources

• American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
• National Center for Learning Disabilities