10 Ways to Support Your Child with a Learning Disability

I have a child with a learning disability.

He’s struggled academically and socially to “keep up” with his peers and grade level since Pre-K. As we begin his fourth grade experience in a new school, in a different state, with a number of changes (to include deployment in the mix), I need to gather my thoughts and streamline my efforts that will set him up for success this year.

Let’s do this.

Do you have a child that systemically struggles in school?

Do you spend more one-on-one time with them, helping with homework or offering whatever energy you have left at the end of the day encouraging them that they’re just as smart as their classmates as you wipe their tears?

If so, you can relate to this article on a number of levels. As you know, it’s one of the worst gut-wrenching feelings being unable to make things better for your child, but I refuse to allow our son to fall through the cracks or feel “less than” excellent. I feel our family has been afforded a multitude of supportive educators along my son’s journey, beginning in Texas with the initiation of his 504.

A 504 is a plan developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.

The evaluations and assessments he took at the end of his first grade school year paved the way for the first step, which was a 504 plan. Results concluded he was severely dyslexic with ADHD. We received these findings three days before our PCS to Michigan and into a different school district and state.

I never had experience or first-hand knowledge of dyslexia. I immediately researched, bought books to help me understand his beautiful brain interworkings, and got to work. This puzzle piece would prove to serve as a family journey we continue to discover along the route.

During our short two years in Michigan, we were blessed beyond belief by resources and our squad of special education services and teachers. Last, but certainly not least, his dyslexic tutor, Ms. Barb Soper, allowed him to be comfortable with his abilities and soar. Barb’s gentle, yet sturdy love and supportive teaching style provided the foundation for him to find his voice and showcase his artistic gifts, while refusing to allow our son to feel anything other than confident in the classroom.

So, here we are now in South Carolina. He now has an IEP, and I have my first meeting tomorrow with the principal, guidance counselor, his teacher, special education teacher, and my mama whom is driving down from Kentucky as I type this article. She’s going on her 35th year of teaching in the classroom, so her expertise, intuition, and love for her grandson will enhance the discussion for our new team to lay the groundwork for his ultimate success this 2019-2020 school year.

The Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) is a plan or program developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives specialized instruction and related services.

I’m going to leave you with some helpful tips that I’ve figured out along the way so that you, too, can continue the fight with empowered direction:

1. Be your child’s greatest advocate.

Do not be shy, timid, or afraid to ask their teacher(s) questions, as this is a learning process. The ultimate power and responsibility is yours to advocate for your child’s path to success.

2. Know your rights.

If your child has a 504 plan or IEP, memorize it in its entirety. Understand the content of accommodations, special resources, and support.

3. Build a team.

The more educators and trusted individuals that support your child’s educational journey, the better. Discuss and allow healthy free flow of ideas, when needed.

4. Communicate with the school.

Keep an open, healthy communication link with the school, teachers, and support staff. Be your child’s voice.

5. Never give up hope.

Seriously, don’t. As the saying goes, just keep swimming. Join a support group with other families that have experienced the same challenges and triumphs to share your feelings and receive support.

6. Be positive.

Your child may be more aware than you know. Be cognizant of what you say and communicate information or updates only when necessary, as change might cause unneeded anxiety.

7. Remind you child who they are.

Remind them that they’re perfect just the way they are. How boring would it be if we were all alike and shared the same gifts?

8. Contact your school liaison officer.

See how they can assist before, during, and after transition. Our school liaison officer from Fort Jackson was instrumental in our search for relocation, as we chose our residency based off the school district. You can find the contact information for your installation’s school liaison online under your installations MWR webpage. Search for “School Support Services.”

9. Touch base often.

If you feel your child is struggling in any area, ask for a conference or meeting to make sure all involved parties are on the same page. Request to be updated with every new bit of information to be kept in the communication loop.

10. Appreciate the journey.

Always keep in mind that your child has to work harder than others. Allow mistakes, an accepted level of frustration from them, and continue to love them fiercely.

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Sara Jane Arnett

Sara Jane Arnett

Sara Jane Arnett is a seasoned Army spouse of 15 years, mother of dragons (four boys), and considers supporting fellow military families one of her greatest joys. She serves in various leadership roles through military and civilian organizations such as Soldier and Family Readiness Groups, community events, non-profits, and schools. Sara Jane currently serves as a USARCENT (located at Shaw AFB) Soldier and Family Readiness Assistant and an HHBN SFRG Volunteer; she is an AFTB and Four Lenses Self Discovery Instructor and travels the country delivering keynote addresses, customized trainings and workshops catered to the military spouse. Sara Jane actively coaches and collaborates with SFRG leaders, volunteers, military and civilian leadership in multiple commands, ensuring all families are taken care of and remain valued. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Strategic Leadership from Regent University and plans to use her education to make a positive impact for military families across all branches.

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