How to Help Your LD Child

Don't despair because your child is having trouble learning. Instead, figure out what you can do to help.
Q
My daughter has a learning problem. In school, she has to go to special classes to help her with reading. She has trouble recognizing her letters and she still struggles with conversation. Half the time the things she says don't make sense at all. Because of this she has trouble making friends, and it really hurts me to see this. How do I get help dealing with her? It frustrates me so much sometimes that I just want to pull my hair out.
A
Many communities have support groups for parents of special needs children. Talk with your daughter's exceptional children's teacher or with the school counselor to find out if there is one in your area. If there is not a group already in existence, ask the school staff if they will help you connect with the other parents in your daughter's exceptional children's class to share frustrations and concerns.

You could also check with a college or university nearby. The psychology or education department may be able to offer some support or some information that will help you deal with your daughter and your frustrations. In addition, you can visit the online community of parents of children with learning differences at FamilyEducation.

Barbara Potts has worked as an elementary school counselor for many years. She has a BA in psychology from Wake Forest University, and an M.Ed. in Guidance and Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

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