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Getting Help
Though the process of getting help may seem overwhelming, finding support for your child—and for yourself—is easier than you might think. In most cases, talking with your child's teacher should be the first step.
Share your concerns with your child's teacher and ask about her observations of your child's performance, interactions with his peers, etc. Together you may come up with strategies to try in the classroom and at home to support your child's learning needs.
Most teachers want to help and will work with you to try and meet your child's learning needs. If you feel it may be necessary, your child's teacher can also help to arrange a full evaluation of how well he is performing in school.
Also, be sure your child has had a thorough physical examination by a medical doctor or nurse practitioner to assure that there are no major health problems that might be interfering with learning. Be especially certain to have eyes and ears checked for correctable vision and hearing problems.
Useful tips when meeting with your child's teacher:
- Write down any questions you have before entering the meeting. These questions should be geared toward gaining greater understanding of your child's problems and how to address them in the school setting.
- Review records of previous conferences and educational decisions before attending conferences and be prepared to share them with school personnel.
- Be ready to share your observations about your child's academic progress. Listen well and participate in the meeting with an open mind, knowing that you are all there to facilitate school success for your child.
- Keep careful and detailed notes at the meeting. Don't be afraid to ask for clarification if you do not understand something that was said.
- Ask for information on the curriculum and how students' work is evaluated, so that you know how to gauge your child's progress.
- Appreciate that teachers must juggle the unique needs of many students. Work with school personnel to come up with strategies that are practical, given the realities of the school and the classroom.
- Acknowledge that the major motivation for success must come from your child. Work with teachers to keep expectations high and to nurture an enthusiasm for learning.
- Agree on how you and the teacher will make follow-up contacts to review progress.
Now that you know the first step to take, there are several more steps you can take to find support and make sure your child gets the right kind of help!
Next > Taking Action
Learning Disabilities Association of America
4156 Library Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15234-1349
Phone (412) 341-1515 Fax (412) 344-0224
www.LDAAmerica.org
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