Parents often start the evaluation process with a narrow focus on one issue, which can lead to incomplete understanding of their child’s needs
Leslie and Jennifer both express how their initial concerns were centered around reading difficulties, leading them to focus primarily on dyslexia. Jennifer shares her realization that addressing dyslexia alone was not enough, as her son Nathan still faced challenges. This highlights the importance of parents being open to the possibility that their child may have multiple learning difficulties that need to be addressed.
Understanding the Full Scope of Your Child’s Learning Difficulties
Navigating the world of special education evaluations can be daunting for parents whose children are struggling with learning difficulties. Leslie from Lord Rock and Jennifer from Atlanta share their experiences with their children’s diagnoses of dyslexia and unspecified learning disorders, shedding light on the importance of understanding the full scope of the evaluation process. This article aims to guide parents through the complexities of this journey, emphasizing the crucial role they play in advocating for their child’s needs.
Understanding the full evaluation process is essential for parents to advocate effectively for their child
Michelle from the Bronx emphasizes the importance of knowing the rights of both the parents and the student during the evaluation process. She stresses that parents should trust their instincts and continue advocating for what is best for their child, even if it differs from the school’s recommendations. This underscores the need for parents to be well-informed and actively involved in the evaluation process.
Author Quote
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A lot of times the focus is taken away from the process and what’s best for the child and just being right… if the parent feels differently then the parent needs to go with their gut instinct because sometimes it’s not right. – Michelle
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Experts recommend that parents consider all possible recommendations, even if they are not offered by the school
Christina, a former special educator, shares her insight that schools may not always offer the most suitable services for a child’s needs. She wishes she had known earlier that she could recommend specialized settings like a 12-1 classroom, even if her school did not provide it. This highlights the importance of parents exploring all available options and not limiting themselves to what the school offers.
Key Takeaways:
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Understanding the Full Scope of Challenges: It's crucial for parents to recognize that dyslexia might not be the only issue their child faces. Jennifer's experience highlights the importance of being open to the possibility of other learning challenges, such as dysgraphia and ADHD, which may also need to be addressed to fully support the child's educational needs.
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Knowing Your Rights in the Evaluation Process: Michelle emphasizes the importance of understanding parental and student rights during the evaluation process. Parents should be aware of their rights and advocate persistently for what they believe is best for their child, even if it differs from the school's initial recommendations.
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Collaborating with the School: Andrew Lee, an expert in disability and education rights, stresses the benefits of collaborating with the school. Being a respectful and assertive partner can lead to better outcomes for the child and can be advantageous if disputes arise later. This collaborative approach helps in creating a supportive educational environment tailored to the child's needs.
Collaboration with the school can lead to better outcomes for the child and the family
Andrew Lee, an understood editor and lawyer, emphasizes the benefits of parents collaborating with the school during the evaluation process, especially when addressing specific learning challenges such as Dysgraphia . He explains that being a helpful partner can lead to better results for the child and can be advantageous if disputes arise later. Parents should be assertive about their child’s needs while maintaining a respectful and collaborative approach.
Author Quote
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The notion of collaborating with the school… it actually has some huge benefits for you… it makes sure that you get the best result for your child because you’re working in the best manner with the school. – Andrew Lee
”Parents play a crucial role in helping their child overcome learning difficulties like Dysgraphia and achieve a successful future
Ellen Bratton, a child psychologist, shares her perspective that most children with learning and attention differences grow up to be successful adults. She emphasizes the importance of reassuring parents that every child finds their own path. Parents can use tools like Learning Difficulties Analysis to better understand their child’s challenges and work towards a positive outcome. By being proactive and supportive, parents can help their child navigate the difficulties posed by conditions like dysgraphia and build a foundation for future success.
Empower your child’s learning journey with the Dyslexia Bundle, designed to address multiple learning challenges and support their path to success.
