How can parents help their child who has been diagnosed with a learning disability?  

Your children need love, understanding, support, and supervision like every child after and during each stage of his/her development; however, especially after he/she has received the results of his evaluation which have diagnosed him/her as "learning disabled".

How can you, his parents, help him at this moment?

Here we will give some recommendations:

• Remember that most children who are diagnosed with learning disabilities are of normal or above normal intelligence. Many of these children become students of higher education at universities, colleges, etc...Also, like any other child, they are likely to excel in fields like music, art, athletics, and other creative fields.
• It is important to identify and develop his/her abilities and to encourage his/her efforts in school studies and extracurricular activities that he/she is interested.
• Acquire updated knowledge of the nature of learning disabilities, causes, and treatment by researching in books, videos, internet, and conversations with experts, etc...
• Make sure you understand well the results of the evaluation that was given to your child and the possible implications. Consult with experts regarding the possible treatments or interventions that could be appropriate, and don't worry about asking questions.
• Speak with your children about the meaning of "learning disability", the causes, and on the implications of life with a learning disability. Explain to him/her the findings of the evaluation in terms that he/she can understand. Support him/her and help him/her to understand him/herself in a way that is not negatively judgmental. Focus on his/her talents and strengths. Tell him about ways that he/she can get by at home and at school with a learning disability. Encourage him/her to ask for help when he/she needs it.
• Help your children to actively participate in social activities and to improve his/her skills in this area: many children who suffer from learning disabilities have difficulties building friendships and keeping them. Positive attention, lessening of conflicts, and clear and firm rules at home are some of the basic fundamentals which will help your children develop the proper tools to manage a fulfilling social life in their family and other settings.
• Stand in continual contact with the educational staff of the school where your child learns: share with the educational staff the results of your child's evaluation and be involved in the process of helping your child in the school. Cooperation with the school is vital to the success of helping your child.
• Keep school studies in proper proportion: recognize the importantance of studies, but don't overburden your child with needless pressuring, e.g., constant pressure to finish homework assignments. Your connection with your child is more important.
• Raising a child with learning disabilities is likely to demand from you enormous mental and emotional investment. Take care to replenish your energies, allot time for yourselves, your spouse, and your friends.
• Take advantage of support groups on this issue. These groups serve as a source of information and consultation as they offer an opportunity to be connected with other parents who are dealing with similar issues.

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