The Buzz about Learning Disabilities

Why learning disabilities?
From the Learning Disabilities Association of America:
“A learning disability is a neurological disorder that affects one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or in using spoken or written language. The disability may manifest itself in an imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell or to do mathematical calculations (for more visit http://www.ldanatl.org/).

Common learning disabilities include dyslexia, dyscalculia and dysgraphia, and some people include ADD/ADHD in the bunch. Diagnosis and educational planning often focus on the weaknesses of people involved and don’t necessarily highlight their strengths. It is common for an individual with learning disabilities to feel for a long time like he or she doesn’t have any strengths. I don’t believe this is true. Many people with these types of learning struggles have many gifts, just not always those valued and/or highlighted in traditional education. I got involved, and have stayed involved, with students with learning disabilities because I love working them. Each student I have and have ever worked with has his or her own unique way at looking at the world and I believe they should be acknowledged for those gifts. They can all learn and should never be made to feel that they can’t - in fact, many of them make the world a much more interesting place!

Other Resources:
LD Basics from LDOnline

Cool Things Going on in the World
Paul Sanchez, an adult in California, is trying to raise awareness (and $$) for kids with learning disabilities. I met Paul at the LDA of America (Learning Disabilities Association of America) conference in Reno a few years ago before his trip. Our state chapter (MI) has been communicating with him since his journey and I am excited to have a place where I can share with more people (or at least feel like I’m communicating with more people :)). Paul videotaped his journey and posted it on YouTube to raise money for kids with dylexia and other learning disabilities. His website is www.8wishes.com. Thanks Paul for all you do!!!!