11 of 11

Write now Article Tools

The most important thing to keep in mind is that the people who do the evaluations and make suggestions on how to deal with these kids still have a lot to learn about how their minds work, etc. That being said there have clearly been a lot of advancements in that area but not everyone in that field knows everything there is to know. I would recommend getting a second or third opinion and reading anything you can get your hands on about these conditions. I'm thinking about writing a book or two on Asperger's Syndrome someday because I feel that the only people who can truly understand what is going on with the kids that have these learning disabilities is those who have lived with them, so if you know an adult that has the same diagnoses as your child then ask their advice as well. You should know that a learning disability is not your fault or your child's fault, but if you let it absolve you and the child of any responsibility for your child's learning you are doing the child a great disservice. Remember, your child is not necessarily disabled, they might have difficulties, maybe extreme difficulties, but that doesn't mean there isn't hope for them. The more you treat them as disabled, or panic about their diagnoses, the more you will hurt your child. They will pick up on that. There have been parents that seem to mourn for their child after hearing the diagnoses, that makes the kid feel like they may as well already be dead. As such it can increase the chances for suicidal feelings that can occur anyway as they go through life being perceived as "different". Treat them with love, expect things from them and teach them as much as you can by whatever methods seem to work. That is the best thing you can do for them. As you read the books remember, every child is different. Your child's condition is not your child, but understanding that condition will help you understand what your child is going through. That's about all I have to say on that subject at this time but I hope it is enough.

Learn more about this author, Jake Berensen.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about What to know before your child is evaluated for learning disabilities?
We want to hear your view. Write now!