Children deserve the right of extra help when a learning disability is defined, and these are a few ideas for you.
When children have a learning disability, parents and teachers should not get discouraged. Each child has his or her own strengths and weaknesses that are a part of life. Sometimes children need extra help or assistance with taking tests, reading, and math. It's not a negative aspect, but merely a small bump in the road. The hardest aspect of coping with the problem is actually diagnosing the concern and then finding an appropriate measure of dealing with it. The following advice is for families making a transitional life change for the better future of a child.
Some children have problems with reading and/or math skills, but it's not a reason to give up hope. A sure bet is to seek tutoring services through the school district faculty in an accredited after school program. Seeking help from companies like Sylvan, Kaplan, or Huntington Learning Centers are available in many states as well. These groups usually take payments for pre and post testing of skill levels, homework assistance, and formal college prep study techniques. Other outside sources offer tutoring through grants (Classroom Plus) that are available to certain states like PA for up to or over $500 worth of free tutoring. You may have to pay in advance or in modified plans until the grant goes through or depending on the center they will "spot" you for it and you can take the grant to them when it arrives at your house. Tutoring is important for K -12 students who need extra attention and small group sessions in one to two hour increments without stressful situations. Many centers also rely on experienced state certified educators. Consider a local center or after school program that fits your child's needs. A learning disability does not need to be hidden or be a crutch throughout a school experience.
Other concerns that may arise with your child may include occupational or physical therapy sessions. Some children may not have proper grasping techniques or eye-hand coordination. This is usually the job of an OT (occupational therapist). Physical therapists (PT) handle arms, legs, hips, and back movement and help with walking, stretching, and weight training for certain children. Remember that these professionals are available through the orders of a doctor or pediatrician. A large school district may have an OT or PT already on staff, but it could be several months before the testing or sessions begin. A guidance counselor or principal can assist you in finding a certified professional who can be covered on a family or child's insurance coverage. Also, the coverage may be included through school services, but you have to ask to make sure. Private or charter schools or even day care may not have access to PT's or OT's but they can assist you in finding someone for your child's needs. If there is a dispute, seek medical assistance from your doctor or pediatrician and request that the services be met according to educational laws and No Child Left Behind rights. This information can be found through education websites in state and federal governments: for example, usgov.org or PDE - PA Dept. of Education. Because your child comes first, make sure that you seek appropriate and available care when necessary by knowing your rights as a parent or caregiver.
Finally, there are children who have special needs from a professional therapist or counselor. Grief, trauma, emotional, and mental issues can be a part of a child's life. When life and school are hindered by such circumstances, it is important to seek the necessary assistance from certified and qualified persons. Various insurance companies can cover therapy or counseling sessions, and free counseling centers may be available through the county or state. Privacy is important for a lot of families, and that is understandable. Children also need to feel the security of trust from their family. Counselors and therapy sessions may raise quite a few eyebrows within a school district, and it is sometimes necessary to seek help outside of school. Find a family member, doctor, or clergyman who can drop names and give referrals with complete confidentiality. Coping with a learning disability need not be a stressful situation for you and your child, but is part of a solution for the health and welfare of your child.
