Pointers for parents of children with learning disabilities

Here are some tips for parents of children with learning disabilities.

·         Take the time to listen to your children as much as you can (really try to get their "Message").

·         Love them by touching them, hugging them, tickling them; wrestling with them (they need lots of physical contact)

·         Look for and encourage their strengths, interests, and abilities. Help them to use these as compensations for any limitations or disabilities

·         Reward them with praise, good words, smiles, and pat on the back as often as you can

·         Accept them for what they are and for their human potential for growth and development. Be realistic in your expectations and demands.

·         Involve them in establishing rules and regulations, schedules, and family activities.

·         Tell them when they misbehave and explain how you feel about their behaviour; then have them propose other more acceptable ways of behaving.

·         Help them to correct their errors and mistakes by showing or demonstrating what they should do.

·         Don't nag!

·         Give those reasonable chores and a regular family work responsibility whenever possible.

·         Give them an allowance as early as possible and then help them plan to spend within it.

·         Provide toys, games, motor activities and opportunities that will stimulate them in their development.

·         Read enjoyable stories to them and with them. Encourage them to ask questions, discuss stories, tell the story, and to reread stories.

·         Further their ability to concentrate by reducing distracting aspects of their environment as much as possible (provide them with a place to work, study and play).

·         Don't get hung up on traditional school grades! It is important that they progress at their own rates and be rewarded for doing so.

·         Take them to libraries and encourage them to select and check out books of interest.

·         Have them share their books with you.

·         Provide stimulating books and reading material around the house.

·         Help them to develop self-esteem and to compete with self rather than with others.

·         Insist that they cooperate socially by playing, helping, and serving others in the family and the community.

·         Serve as a model to them by reading and discussing material of personal interest. Share with them some of the things you are reading and doing.

·         Don't hesitate to consult with teachers or other specialists whenever you feel it to be necessary in order to better understand what might be done to help your child learn.