The Learning Disabilities Association Can Help

Those who log onto the website for the first time should begin by clicking on the "Start Here" logo. This link leads to a series of pages that explain the basics of learning disabilities, diagnosis, treatment, and so forth. The pages are very positive and can provide reassurance to newly diagnosed adults with learning disabilities or parents of learning disabled children.

Beyond the basics, the Learning Disabilities Association provides a wealth of information on topics ranging from legal rights, to assessment and classroom issues, to workplace issues. A particularly nice feature in this section is dedicated to adults with learning disabilities. Learning disabilities were not always recognized in schools until a few years ago and even today, many children slip through the cracks. Large numbers of adults with learning disabilities have never been diagnosed. The Learning Disabilities Association provides information on learning disabilities tests for adults, as well as coping strategies and techniques for adults with learning disabilities. Practical information is provided on dealing with your learning disability at work as well as legal protections that may be in place under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The Learning Disabilities Association provides equally exhaustive resources for parents of learning disabled children. Parents can take a 4 hour self-paced training course on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. This helpful course educates parents on the services that are provided under the Act and how to obtain them. There is also information designed to help parents determine whether their learning disabled children need special education programs or learning disability schools, or whether assistive technology within a mainstream classroom would be appropriate.

The section of the Learning Disabilities Association website for Professionals is invaluable. The latest in diagnosis and treatment of specific learning disabilities is discussed at length. The website also provides information on related conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Additionally, information is provided on the legal aspects of treating learning disabilities, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

The website section for Teachers is invaluable. With the current trend towards mainstreaming, it is statistically likely that every classroom teacher will encounter learning disabled children in his or her classroom. Many teachers are unfamiliar with the recognition, assessment, and treatment of learning disabilities, yet it is often the teacher that first encounters the symptoms. The Learning Disabilities Association provides comprehensive information about specific learning disabilities as well as learning disabilities in general, which can help classroom teachers to become better providers and advocates for the students with learning disabilities in their care.

The Learning Disabilities Association's website is an invaluable resource for anyone whose life is affected by a learning disability. Learning disabilities are not currently curable but they are manageable, and information is the best tool. Visit the website at www.ldaamerica.org for information and support.