Top 3 Tips From Parents: When Your Child is First Diagnosed with a Learning Difference

 

DVFriends parents and guardians have first-hand experience with this pivotal moment in their child’s educational journey and know the depth and breadth of the impact of that diagnosis. Here are three of their top tips.

1. “Trust your gut!”
 
DVFriends Middle school boy works with a teacher in science class
As parents and guardians, if you think something is wrong and your child is struggling in school, pursue it.

“It took me until 5th grade to realize my son was not where he should be and he wasn’t improving. It was a horrible, traumatic year for him. And the rest of us.” DV PARENT
 
2. Learning Differences can’t be “fixed” or “cured,” but your child is not broken
 
A group of senior girls celebrating together at the Senior Sunrise Breakfast
Many parents talked about the moment they realized that their child wasn’t going to “grow out of” or be “cured” of their learning difference, and that it was nobody’s fault. That moment was hard, but accepting that reality helped them see and appreciate their child for who they are and all the wonderful strengths and talents they do have.

“Not being understood took away her confidence and love of learning. Being understood and knowing that her challenges were not ‘her fault’ brought back the kid that we thought was lost.” DV PARENT
 
3. There’s hope
 
A group of Lower School students having fun on the turf field
There are schools out there like DV that may be a much better fit for your child. Schools like DV can make a huge difference in a child’s learning and well-being. Parents highlighted the partnerships DV teachers and administrators form with students and families as critical to their student’s success in school.

“I wish I knew the enormous weight that would be lifted when my child was educated by teachers who understood her differences and was surrounded by really bright, interesting classmates who also learn differently.” DV PARENT
 
 
Want to learn more?
 
(The best time to visit DV is before school ends in June!)