Understand, Action, and Help

Living with a learning disability can bring unique challenges, but it can also uncover hidden strengths, new ways of thinking, and powerful opportunities for growth. This course is designed to guide individuals with learning disabilities step by step in understanding their learning style, building strong communication skills, and discovering practical strategies to succeed in school, relationships, and life, while also helping parents, teachers, and peers gain a deeper understanding of how to support and appreciate them. By the end of this course, you will:

  • Understand what learning disabilities are and how they affect learning.

  • Know how to start conversations with parents, teachers, and friends about your needs.

  • Learn how to get properly tested and diagnosed so you can access the right support.

  • Build time-management and organization skills that make school and daily life easier.

  • Explore healthy coping strategies such as hobbies, creativity, and movement to reduce stress.

  • Strengthen your self-confidence by identifying your unique talents and celebrating your successes.

This course will not only help people with learning disabilities manage challenges and embrace their strengths, but it will also teach others how to respond with empathy, patience, and support so everyone can thrive together.

Where to start and how ?

Part 1: Getting Tested and Communication.

Why testing matters: Identifies your specific challenges and strengths so you can get the right support.

Steps

  1. Talk to a parent/guardian about your struggles in school. Communication Skills

    • Talking to Parents:

      • Be honest: “I’ve noticed I’m struggling with reading/math/focus, and I think I might need support.”

      • Share how it affects you daily (homework, tests, self-confidence).

    • Talking to Teachers:

      • Ask for help early. Example: “I learn best when I can see examples” or “I need extra time to process instructions.”

      • Request accommodations if needed (extended time, audiobooks, typed notes).

    • Talking to Friends:

      • Keep it simple. Example: “I learn differently—it just takes me longer, but I get there.”

      • Share what helps you (study buddy, reading aloud together).

  2. Ask your school counselor or learning specialist for an evaluation.

  3. You may be referred to an educational psychologist for testing.

Building a Support System

  • Parents & family: Ask them for encouragement, not just reminders.

  • Teachers: Find one or two you trust to check in with regularly.

  • Friends: Surround yourself with people who lift you up, not those who make fun of struggles.

  • Mentors: Coaches, older students, or nonprofit leaders who inspire you.

Part 2: Understanding Learning Disabilities

  • What they are: differences in how the brain processes information (reading, writing, math, focus, memory, etc.).

  • Common examples: Dyslexia, ADHD, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia, Auditory Processing Disorder.

  • Key point: A learning disability does not mean you are less intelligent—it means you learn differently.

Part 3 Time Management Strategies

  • Break tasks into smaller chunks (e.g., 20-minute study sessions).

  • Use planners or digital calendars to track assignments.

  • Set timers for breaks (Pomodoro technique: 25 minutes focus, 5 minutes break).

  • Prioritize with a daily “Top 3” list (only three main goals per day).

  • Use reminders/alerts on your phone for deadlines.