Learning Disabilities

After being diagnosed with learning disabilities, children may undergo ridicule from classmates and loss of self-esteem due to perceived failure. It is important for children to receive emotional support in addition to educational assistance as they struggle with the process of receiving and processing information.

Teachers and caregivers should avoid telling learning-disabled children to try harder, concentrate more or get motivated. Learning disabilities are caused by neurological dysfunction and affect a child's ability to understand, organize or remember information correctly. Affected children need specialized assistance to overcome their challenges in order to be successful in school and in life.

Most learning disabilities influence writing and reading skills, although other children may struggle with math logic and motor-skill development. Many schools offer innovative language-curriculum approaches based on making learning fun and manageable. They may address disabilities through individual and group therapy or an integration of artistic expression and visual-language cues. Experts may also help children understand the connections between simple and complex sounds, syllables and words by playing language and pattern games.

Help for Reading Disabilities in Pennsylvania

Based in the Philadelphia area, the Center School is tailored to children with average-to-exceptional cognitive potential and offers year-round and summer programming for elementary and middle school students struggling with language and reading disabilities. Reading specialists and dedicated staff members help children who have struggled in traditional learning settings to develop strategies for school and home success. For more information about the application process, email centerschool@centerschoolpa.org or call (215) 657-2200. Completed applications can be mailed to 2450 Hamilton Avenue, Abington, PA 19001 or faxed to (215) 657-2646.