Breaking Barriers: October is LD and ADHD Awareness Month
“Continuous effort - not strength or intelligence - is the key to unlocking our potential.”
October is a busy month. Filled with apple picking, falling leaves and yes, all things pumpkin spice. (My personal favorite.) It's also a huge awareness month for breaking barriers about learning disabilities (LD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). As a parent advocate, I'm here to guide you on making the most of LD and ADHD awareness month so you can be empowered to help fight through the stigma and fear that often surrounds our families with learning differences and ADHD.
Understanding LD and ADHD
Before we dive into action, it's essential to learn more about LD and ADHD. They are not mere labels, but rather neurobiological and life-long conditions that are not related to a child’s intelligence. LD refers to a range of disorders that affect a child’s ability to acquire, process or retain information. Kids with LD most often have average or above-average intelligence. Early identification and appropriate interventions are essential, such as specialized teaching methods, accommodations, and individualized education plans (IEPs), which can help kids with LDs succeed in school. Some examples of LD may include dyslexia, dyscalculia, auditory processing disorder and other speech and language conditions that affect learning. ADHD brings struggles with focus, organization and impulse control for kids. But remember, these conditions don't define our kid's potential, it's what makes them unique.
Let's start by unraveling the world of LD and ADHD. These differences in how children's brains process information can sometimes be misunderstood, but awareness is the first step to positive change. Here are some of the most common learning differences:
Dyslexia:
Dyslexia is like a puzzle where the pieces are scattered. Kids with dyslexia might struggle with reading, decoding, spelling, and even writing. They may have difficulty reading fluently and comprehending text. But, guess what? Dyslexia doesn't define your child's potential. It's just one piece of the puzzle.
Dyscalculia:
Dyscalculia involves difficulties with math. Kids with dyscalculia might struggle with basic arithmetic operations, how to tell time, reading a map, understanding math concepts, and problem-solving. This can translate to challenges in other aspects of school, not just in math class.
Dysgraphia:
Dysgraphia pertains to difficulties with writing, both in terms of handwriting and written expression. Children with dysgraphia may have messy handwriting, struggle to organize their thoughts on paper, and face challenges in constructing sentences and paragraphs.
Auditory Processing Disorder:
Kids with APD may have difficulty understanding and interpreting what they hear, even though their hearing is normal. This can result in challenges with following directions, distinguishing between similar sounds, and processing verbal information in noisy environments. For parents, it's crucial to be aware of the signs, which include difficulty following conversations, trouble remembering spoken information, and sensitivity to loud noises.
Speech and Language Disorders:
These disorders can affect a child's ability to communicate effectively. They may have difficulty with articulation, understanding language, or expressing themselves, which can impact their ability to learn and interact with others.
ADHD:
If you have a child with ADHD, you know the energy, impulsivity and creativity that come with it. However, it can also present as an “inattentive type” where kids have difficulty sustaining attention, organizational problems and forgetfulness. Sometimes, it can be challenging to channel that restless energy into productive tasks. But, it's essential to remember that ADHD isn't a barrier; it's a unique lens through which your child sees the world. With the right support, they can thrive.
Busting the Myths
One of the first steps in fighting stigma is to bust the myths surrounding LD and ADHD. Educate yourself and others about the realities of these conditions and find resources for support. I have a long list of resources that I share with parents based on their needs, and a few of my favorite organizations leading this work include
- The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD.org)
- Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDAmerica.org)
- Child Mind Institute (ChildMind.org)
- International Dyslexia Association (https://ksmo.dyslexiaida.org/)
- Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD.org)
- Understood.org
After you’ve had time to digest and dig deep into these learning issues, it’s time to share your personal experiences and knowledge with your community. Challenge misconceptions and stereotypes, and encourage open, honest conversations about what it's like to be a family with learning differences.
Advocate for Inclusivity
Our journey is not easy to navigate and our educational system is not set up to embrace neurodiversity. This October, let's step out of our comfort zone and be vocal advocates for inclusivity. Work closely with schools and your teachers to ensure that IEPs, 504 plans, and if you are in a private school, your Individualized Service Plans (ISPs), are tailored to your child's unique needs. Communicate and encourage teachers, administrators, and fellow parents to embrace the diversity of learning styles.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reach out to your parenting support groups and networks that specialize in LD and ADHD. A great first step is to find your local Special Education Parent Advocacy Group (SEPAG). Join their next meeting. Share your experiences, exchange tips, and offer a helping hand to others. Get involved. Together, we can create a strong, supportive community that empowers parents and children alike.
Celebrate Achievements
LD and ADHD Awareness Month isn't just about highlighting challenges; it's about celebrating achievements, big and small. Recognize and reward your child's accomplishments. If you and your child are comfortable, start to share their successes with your community, or on social media and let the world see the incredible potential that these young minds hold.
Promote Self-Acceptance
Finally, instill self-acceptance in your child. Let them know that their differences make them unique and special. Teach them that they can achieve greatness in their own way. With your unwavering support, they'll grow up resilient and proud of who they are.
This October, let's join together to bust through the myths and barriers surrounding disabilities and differences. As parents, advocates, and allies, we have the power to break down the walls of stigma that surround learning disabilities and ADHD. By spreading awareness, finding community and building understanding, we can help our kids create a brighter future, one where they are celebrated for their unique abilities and strengths.
October is more than pumpkin spice lattes…
