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WHAT PARENTS CAN DO!
A learning disability may be a tiresome handicap, but it need not be
a major tragedy. The important thing in the first place is that it is RECOGNIZED.
Therefore, if you suspect a problem, speak to the child's teacher and pediatrician.
Request an assessment and ask for the result in writing.
While definition is a guidepost for the field of L.D., the backbone
is Assessment. For only when the student is tested can his own pattern
of strengths and weaknesses be evaluated and understood. Early and accurate
diagnosis can prevent a host of related problems from erupting, such as
emotional, behavioral, or psychological.
Assessment in Israel is often carried out by any one or all of the following
professionals:
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Psychologist
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Neurologist
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Certified Teacher-assessor
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Neuropsychologist
REMEMBER:
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Effective correction must include a total approach to the educational,
psychological, physiological and medical needs of the individual child.
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After assessment, an Individual Education Plan (I.E.P.) must be developed
in writing, by the teacher or other professional.
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There must be coordination between the child, parent, classroom teacher
and special ed. Teacher.
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There must be regular follow-up and re-evaluation periodically.
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A complete written record should be kept and updated.
Public Relations:
Everyone of us, parents and professionals alike, are part of the "public
relations staff" for HILLEL Parents of Children With Learning Disabilities.
We all have to be alert for any opportunity to explain what MLDs are and
their needs. There is too much ignorance, and it is our responsibility
to clarify whenever possible. Please take the initiative to call radio
"talk shows," write letters to the newspapers, Broadcasting Authority and
politicians. Many of the parents who call us at the HILLEL office
tell us that they only realized that there was a "name" for the reason
their child was struggling in school, when they heard about it on the radio
or read it in the paper.
Just recently, a HILLEL mother noticed a very negative use of
the word "dyslexic" by a well-known Knesset Member in a newspaper article.
She wrote a letter to him (faxed it) with a copy to the paper. He immediately
called back to apologize and has promised to meet with representatives
of HILLEL to see how he can contribute. This is something we
can all do. For more information contact the HILLEL office.
Try this in the home:
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Learn from your child by listening and observing; find out how he approaches
problems, what his difficulties are.
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Build a routine into his life so that he knows what to expect, and when.
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Don't change routines suddenly; plan and explain changes well in advance.
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Don't give several instructions at once; voice them one at a time, as
each task is accomplished.
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Help him keep his room uncluttered and his things organized. Help him
practice skills in the home: setting the table, following recipe instructions,
using the telephone, shopping.
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Pick and choose what is truly applicable to your family and your child.
Some things apply and some don't.
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Build his self-confidence by immediate praise, giving him the opportunity
to know success. Respect your child for the worthy person he is. Results
are not always immediate, be patient and consistent. Your child needs this
consistent support. Look for little improvements and share your good feelings
with your child.
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Try to minimize tension situations. Share also your frustrations as
you understand his—on the talking level. Find words as alternatives to
pent up anger and explosions to express yourself.
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Tell him that learning isn't easy and different approaches may make
learning easier for him. For example, the use of a tutor, or more effort
in reviewing lessons may be necessary, but assure him that otherwise he
is the same as any other child.
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It's a family affair: Get others in the family to understand and go
along with these ideas. It is a family project, a time to stick together,
help each other—especially help the child who needs it so much. While everyone
will be making the effort, we must be careful not to infringe on the rights
of others, and the child with the particular problem needs to understand
this too.
Trust your instincts: You know your child better than anyone else.
Convey to your child your confidence in him, that you really believe he
will do his part, that you will support him and stand by him even as you
trust him to put forth his best efforts.
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