learning concerns

Treatment for Learning Disabilities

Treatment for learning disabilities starts with the professional evaluation and individualized education program (IEP) that addresses your child's specific learning difficulties. Keep in mind that there are no perfect programs for all learning disabled (LD) students. A program is appropriate only to the extent to which the instruction and services address the needs of your particular child.

However, the effort to help your child doesn't end when the plan is in place. There is much that parents can do to support their LD child. It's helpful to remember that these students always have some positive features. Remember your child's laudable and lovable characteristics when you feel discouraged about his or her challenges. Here are some guidelines for parents seeking to help children with learning disabilities:

  • Treat your child as a capable human being.
  • Focus on what your child can do, not on what he or she can't do.
  • Respect and challenge your child's natural intelligence
  • Let your child know you enjoy spending time with him or her.
  • Discuss with your child some of your own struggles as a student.
  • Teach and model that mistakes don't equal failure.
  • It's important to acknowledge the effort toward a goal as well as its achievement.
  • Communicate the concept that this is a family effort.
  • Accept your child as he or she is. Don't compare him or her with brother and sisters or classmates.
  • Be realistic in your expectations for what your child can do now, but don't ever put a ceiling on what your child can eventually do or be.
  • Challenge your child to take responsibility for his or her actions. Encourage problem solving at every opportunity.
  • Be aware that struggling with your child over reading, writing, math, and homework can create an adversarial relationship.
  • Make sure books are at your child's reading level.
  • Keep to a regular routine.
  • Take care of yourself to prevent burnout.
  • Maintain your sense of humor.

Background Information

To Each His Own
It’s normal for some kids to learn at a slower pace.

Types of Learning Difficulties
If you suspect your child may have a learning disability, parents need to be aware of the symptoms that prevent learning at school.

Questions and Answers

My six-year-old son is beginning to have learning problems in school because he can't stay in his seat and concentrate on his lessons. What should I do?
Answer

Is retention in the same grade ever advisable for a child who is not a late bloomer? How about the slow learner?
Answer

My older child is a great student and earns straight A's year after year. Her younger sister, now in the sixth grade, is completely bored in school and won't even try. Why would she refuse to apply her ability like this?
Answer

Review Frequently Asked Questions

Stories

A Reason to Hope
Poor grades at school, inattentiveness and a failure to complete tasks might have a cause you haven't thought of.

If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.
Share Your Story

Other Things to Consider

The Perfect Child
A little perfectionism goes a long way. Too much can be a real downer for kids.

TransitionsHaving a Baby, Preparing for Adolescence

Life PressuresWorking Moms, Stay-At-Home Moms, Time for Family

RelationshipsParents and Adult Children, Blended Families