Communication and Coping Tips for Students with
Learning Disabilities
Take a few minutes to review these tips with your child. She can
start by using a few of them and then try more over time. Since asking for help
can be tough for kids with LD, having these simple phrases rehearsed and ready
to use can help them to advocate for themselves and feel more comfortable and
in control. The tips on how to do positive self-talk can smooth out some of
those rough moments.
Learn how to ask for the help you need:
· Look at the
teacher when he or she is talking.
· Smile at
your teacher and nod your head to show that you understand something.
· When a
teacher offers ideas to help you or corrects your mistakes, always say,
"Thank you."
· Give
yourself at least one "I Am, I Can" statement every day.
· Even if you
didn't finish an assignment or you didn't like doing it, always hand in your
work on time.
· If you
don't understand something, ask the teacher if he or she can explain it
differently using other words or examples.
If you
get stuck, try saying:
· "I
understand what you said, but I can't remember everything I am supposed to
do."
· "I
listened to you, but I don't understand what I am supposed to do."
· "I can
do all of the reading, but the writing will be difficult for me."
· "I
have a very hard time with the reading."
· "I
tried to listen to you, but I had a hard time concentrating."
· "I
want to do a good job, and I will need more time to do the work."
Remember:
Teachers don't get mad at students who try.
This material first appeared in Understanding LD* (*Learning
Differences): A Curriculum to Promote LD Awareness, Self-Esteem and Coping
Skills in Students Ages 8-13, by Susan McMurchie, M.A. (Free Spirit
Publishing Inc.)
