Coaching students how to be organized and preparing them to thrive

Oftentimes, we look back at certain times in our lives and think, "If I only knew then what I know now." We wish we could sit our past selves down and share the knowledge we have accrued in hopes of easing worries and providing invaluable information. As you start down the path with a child who might need an evaluation for dyslexia or has recently been diagnosed with dyslexia, you may face a mix of emotions: confirmation, fear, anxiety, confusion, anger, relief at a diagnosis, etc. We asked parents, teachers, and adults with dyslexia to share with us the advice they would give to others. We asked, "What are the things you wish you would have known?" Below are their words.

Oftentimes, parents, caregivers, and educators come to realize that a student with learning differences or needs might not be as successful in a general education classroom as they could be. Fortunately, your child may be able to qualify for and receive assistance from an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) or a 504 plan which can help provide individualized support, instruction, and accommodations. Navigating which plan might be best for your child and how to go about obtaining one can be both time consuming and confusing. To help make the process easier, we've mapped out the plans' similarities and differences below. 

For many of us, the start of the second half of the school year signals a fresh beginning and an opportunity for growth and change. In addition to setting goals and resolutions, January also offers a great time to clear out and organize spaces. For families with children who have unique needs and/or learning disabilities, organization and structure can be especially helpful in creating a more successful home and school experience.