In the past, it was hard for parents to have their child evaluated for learning difficulties. The child might have instead been told by teachers to try harder, or they would have been labelled “lazy”. It is now possible to not only have a child evaluated for a learning disability but to also have them attend schools for learning disabilities. This is not just a program within a public school but rather a school that focuses on helping students with a learning disability. Sage School would be a good example of this type of school.
Which learning disabilities may benefit?
These schools do not enroll every child with a learning disability. For example, even if two children are evaluated as having dyslexia, the school may accept one and not the other. This might be because the school prefers to work with students with more severe dyslexia symptoms. Having your child assessed and having it confirmed that they have a learning disability will help with the process of finding a school.
Some examples of the learning disabilities that may benefit from such a customized school include:
- Dyslexia
- Dyscalculia
- Dyspraxia
- ADHD
- Non-verbal language disabilities
Some of the schools are tailored to a specific learning disability, whereas other schools may have students with different disabilities in the classrooms.
Why should you select a learning disabilities school?
There are several reasons why families would consider a school for learning disabilities. Their child might have attended a public school and had a bad experience. Attending a school where teachers and other staff are trained to teach students with learning disabilities could help a child learn. The teacher will understand and have solutions to help your child overcome the difficulties they face with a learning disability.
A school that specializes in learning disabilities might be a better environment for your child as their classmates also have learning disabilities. Students could feel more accepted knowing that their classmates also have learning difficulties.
These types of schools will have customized programs for children. A customized learning program tailored to your child’s struggles will capitalize on their strengths that could be better for learning as opposed to a one-size-fits-all curriculum.
Parents and guardians may find that their children may feel more confident building friendships with their classmates. Parents could receive support from other parents who have children with learning disabilities.
How to search for schools
Searching for schools for learning disabilities is not a process that happens overnight. Parents and guardians will want to match up a child’s or family’s specific needs to the right schools. If a child is moving to a higher grade, for example, from elementary to middle school, a school counselor can provide help with finding schools that specialize in learning disabilities.
Begin as soon as possible: It is essential for families to start early when they realize that their child could benefit from attending a learning disability school. The Internet has made it easy to visit school websites and see what they have to offer.
Contact the admissions department: This is a way to let the school know you are thinking of enrolling your child. They will be able to begin the process of determining if your child can benefit by attending their school.
Tour the school: Booking an appointment to tour the school is one way to see if the school will be the right fit for your child. It is a good idea to bring the child along so they can see if the school will be right for them. Involving your child in the decision-making process when selecting a new school may help with the transition when he or she starts attending.
Speak to other parents or guardians: Speaking to other parents who have children at the school your family is interested in is a helpful way to get feedback about their experience. It could also be a way for your child to meet a new friend before they start school.
What to look for when choosing a school
When choosing a school, you need to look at the curriculum offered. It should be filled with various programs that help the child learn and grow within the classroom. For example, depending on the signs of dyslexia that different children have, students who need help with reading will have access to a reading program. There are also smaller schools to consider, which may be an easier learning environment.