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Myths About LD |
SourceSchwab Foundation for Learning ForumsLearning and Other DisabilitiesRelated ArticlesNICHCY: General Info About Learning DisabilitiesInformation and news releases furnished by the members of Schwab Foundation for Learning, who are responsible for their fact and content. |
Mythology is a part of all cultures. If you are a parent, you have most likely read or told myths to your children. You
probably explained that myths differ from reality in that myths are stories handed down in cultures to help explain some
aspect of nature or the customs of a culture. The handing down of myths did not cease with modern times.
Below are some myths that parents hear and that they relay to us at the Parents' Educational Resource Center. The myths are followed by responses based on factual documentation. Myth #1 If my child has a LD or ADHD, I should not worry because he will grow out of it. Response: Learning differences and ADHD are often the result of a problem with the central nervous system where perception and/or processing may be affected. While a neurologically-based problem will not disappear, an individual who receives help and assistance can usually learn compensation strategies for his particular learning style. For this reason, early intervention is recommended. Myth #2 My child must be at least two years below grade level in order to receive special education services in the public schools. Response: Federal and state law now require the public education system to provide for Learning Disabled children beginning at age three, so this myth would be impossible for these children. It is true that there must be a "significant discrepancy" between ability and achievement which is decided at an I.E.P. meeting. As an example, a gifted child may never fall below grade level in achievement, but may have a very significant discrepancy between what she can learn and what she has learned. Because of her discrepancy between ability and achievement, she would qualify for services. Myth #3 Because my child attends a non-public school, he cannot receive an assessment by the public schools to determine if he has a Specific Learning Disability. Response: Parents need to request in writing an assessment by the public school system to determine if their child has a Specific Learning Disability. The public school system is responsible for conducting that assessment, regardless of where the child attends school. Myth #4 Although my child has learning problems, she is not eligible for special education services by the public schools because she does not fit into one of the special education categories, and/or her learning problems are not severe enough for her to qualify for special education. Response: A child may be eligible for special services and program modifications under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Section 504 protections are available to students who have a physical or mental impairment which limits a major life activity (such as learning). Children with Attention Deficit Disorder often receive services under Section 504. These are the four myths heard most often at Schwab Foundation for Learning. Dealing with a LD student can be mystifying. Sometimes educators, professionals and other parents do not have the latest information. If you have questions about something you may have heard, call Schwab Foundation for learning at (800) 230-0988--we want to assist you by providing the latest updates so that you can separate myths from facts. |
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