This  New York Times story offers general advice and specific resources for parents who are trying to help a child who has learning differences or disabilities.

Having known a number of parents whose kids’ learning problems ranged from borderline to severe, it is clear that it is never too early to find reliable sources of help.

The diagnosis of a learning disorder (there are many kinds) do not have anything to do with how smart the student is.

The diagnosis does have everything to do with how hard it is for a student to process the information he or she needs to learn— and to make acceptable, or better, grades, too.

When parents find the right support and tools specifically suited for their child, the improvement can be impressive. The strain in the household lifts, too. As soon as the student is supposed to begin homework, the evening drags on…and on…and on. Everything takes too long. Everything seems harder than it should be.

This is an excellent overview of ways parents can help their kids and the resources with which to do that.

Please remember that grandparents who are involved in a child’s daily or weekly care need to know this information, too.

The New York Times

“Parents should do their homework so they can contribute to an individualized learning plan for a student with a learning disability.

“A directory of the centers is on the Technical Assistance Alliance for Parent Centers’ Web site. The staff at these federally financed programs can help parents navigate the entire special ed process. More specifics of the law are at wrightslaw.com. (Emphasis added)

“Advocates recommend that parents become experts not only on the law but also on their children’s disabilities. One place to start your research is the local chapter of the Learning Disabilities Association of America. You’ll find a map on the organization’s site, ldanatl.org. You can also look for local chapters of specific disability groups like the International Dyslexia Association.” (Emphasis added)

Source: New York Times, February 28, 2010