Teens with learning disabilities (LD) can struggle in school. But they may also have problems outside of school. Homework can be a source of frustration. In addition, teens with LD may also suffer from low self-esteem or have problems with social relationships. Parents can help by being supportive and encourage teens in their efforts as well as gain the knowledge you need to understand the specific learning disability your teen is struggling with.
The following are tips for parents raising teens with learning disabilities:
Tips for School
- Learn all you can about the specific LD. Learning disability is a general term and encompasses many different types of LD. Some of the main types of LD are: language, math, processing, visual or auditory. Although there are a number of common symptoms, each type of LD provides unique difficulties and challenges to individuals. Parents should understand what type of learning disability their teen has, and understand the symptoms and strategies that can help.
- Talk with your teen openly and honestly about his or her learning disability. Discuss where he or she is experiencing problems and ask for his or her input on what steps can be taken to help overcome the difficulties. Ask the teen what you can do to help and support him or her.
- Involve your teen in the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) process at school. Have your teen begin by sitting in meetings and as they feel more comfortable become more involved. Your teen’s input can help by developing support systems he or she feels would be most helpful. By having your teen involved in the process, you will also be preparing him or her for years beyond high school, when he or she will need to become his or her own advocate.
- Observe your child completing homework to determine what helps him or her the most. For example, does he or she work better on a computer rather than writing work by hand? Do calculators help while completing math homework? Would books on tape help for reading assignments? Does he or she require a tutor to help with certain subjects? Open a discussion with your teen about which accommodations he or she feels helps.
- Talk with the teacher about which accommodations and modifications are working in the classroom and which accommodations are not working. This information can be used to adjust the IEP for the following school year, or before if needed.