Learning Disabilities Awareness

Word art including learning disabilities, ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, Emotional Support, Speech and Language, Resources

Hispanic Heritage Month officially came to an end on October 15th and we will turn our focus to Disability Awareness Month from October 19th - November 15th. Since we will recognize Autism and Down Syndrome in the Spring, our focus for the next month will center on:

  • Learning Disabilities
  • ADHD/ADD
  • Emotional Disturbance
  • Speech and Language

October was originally designated in the United States as Learning Disabilities Month in 1985 through a proclamation by President Ronald Reagan. October is also ADHD Awareness Month.


Five Interesting Facts About the Less Obvious Disabilities

Did you know?

  1. 1 in 5 students across the country have learning and attention issues. This includes the 2.5 million who have specific learning disabilities like dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. It also includes the 6 million who have been diagnosed with ADHD.
  2. People with ADHD do not have trouble paying attention- they struggle to pay attention to the RIGHT thing.
  3. A few characteristics of a language disorder are an inability to express ideas, improper use of words and inability to follow directions.
  4. Two of the most common speech disorders that occur in children are:
  • Articulation disorder which causes children to mispronounce certain sounds such as S or R
  • Stuttering

       5. Teachers are most at risk for developing a voice disorder - stay hydrated! 

General Information about Disabilities

Resources for Teachers and Families 

Learning Disabilities and Dyslexia

Resources for Teachers and Families

ADD/ADHD

Resources for Teachers and Families

Emotional Support   

Emotional disturbance means a condition exhibiting one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time and to a marked degree that adversely affects a child's educational performance:

  • an inability to learn that cannot be explained by il, sensory, or health factors.
  • An inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers.
  • Inappropriate types of behavior or feelings under normal circumstances.
  • A general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression.
  • A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems. 

 

Resources for Teachers and Families

Speech and Language

Speech or language impairment means a communication disorder, such as stuttering, impaired articulation, a language impairment, or a voice impairment, that adversely affects a child’s educational performance.

Resources for Teachers and Families

If you feel your child may have a learning disability or need extra learning supports, please contact the Special Education Supervisor of your child's school.