Jonathan Mooney | Author. Public Speaker. Different.

Overview | Parents | Students | Teachers

The first thing you should know: you are not alone! Your child is not alone! Countless students struggle to conform their learning styles to the mainstream educational system. That’s because the system was made to fit most people. It is only in the past few decades that the public has begun to recognize and demand that the system should fit all. Teaching your child—and your child’s community—to bring out each other’s best is a lot of work, but well worth it. Sometimes it’s as simple as using a different word.

Focus-Pocus

The first step you can take to help your child focus is to stop telling him to focus! Instead give your child strategies that will help him pay attention. Often ADD is not a deficit at all, but a hyper awareness of one’s surroundings. Allowing your child to hold a kooshball or receive other tactile stimulation will quell his “antsy” behavior.

Take Control

By advocating for your child, you will make sure she gets the accommodations and attention she needs. And nothing shows your child you care more than your sticking up for her

Include your child

Bring junior to parent-teacher meetings, but don’t let him be a fly on the wall. Make sure your child is part of the conversation. Ask him what he thinks and how he feels. Give him a say the decisions that will affect his school day.

Know Your Child’s Rights

Children with learning disabilities enjoy protections of the Americans With Disabilities Act. Familiarize yourself with what this means. Does your school comply with the federal law? Many accommodations are simple fixes that can make a world of a difference.

Teach the Teacher

Build relationships with your child’s teachers – it shows you care about your child’s education. Teach them the strategies you use at home to help your child complete tasks. Keep them informed about your child’s development. By interacting with you, they will have a better understanding of your child in the classroom.