A learning disability causes difficulty in an area of learning, such as reading, writing, or math. Challenges in one or more of these areas can affect a child’s ability to thrive in the classroom. But it’s not always clear to parents what to do when their child is struggling.
We profile two smart young men with slow processing, a learning difference that affects their ability to manage daily tasks in a timely fashion. Dr. Ellen Braaten has expert advice for both parents and children coping with this issue.
This post is the first in a multi-part Slow Processing Speed series from Dr. Braaten entitled Bright Kids Who Can’t Keep Up.
Dan’s mom left her son’s evaluation team meeting at school feeling really frustrated. Dan, an active second grade student, was diagnosed by his psychiatrist with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Billy was a second grader who was having difficulty reading. He was thus evaluated through his public school system to see if he was eligible to receive special education services. Upon his completion of a series of tests, Billy was identified as having a reading disability; this diagnosis entitled him to special education services.
Christopher had a tough third grade year. He struggled to pay attention, had difficulty reading his assignments, and was never able to finish his homework on time.
Billy was an intelligent, 12-year-old boy who excelled at math, and loved Japanese anime. He could talk incessantly about World of Warcraft, and impressed adults with his knowledge of geography.
The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and the American College Test (ACT) are important tests for students hoping to go to college. If you have a high school student with a learning disability (such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, disorder of written expression) or ADHD, you might be wondering if they can—or should—receive extended time on tests.