On November 12, 2024, Parenthrive hosted an engaging and informative Parent Talk Show focused on the critical topic of identifying learning disabilities and effective teaching strategies. This conversation featured Shelani Dias, a dedicated Parenthrive member, psychologist, mental health counselor, and lecturer, who shared her expert insights on how parents can recognize the signs of learning disabilities in their children and adopt strategies that support their child’s unique learning needs.
While Shelani’s expertise guided the conversation, what truly made this session special was the active participation of parents who shared their personal stories, insights, and tips. The collective wisdom of both the expert and parents created an empowering and supportive environment that emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing learning challenges early on.
The session kicked off with a discussion on how parents can spot the early signs of a learning disability in their child. Shelani shared that learning difficulties often manifest in different ways, such as trouble with reading, writing, or math, difficulty following instructions, or inconsistent performance across subjects. As she explained, recognizing these signs early is crucial, as it opens the door to timely intervention and support.
Parents in the group shared their own observations. Some noticed that their children struggled to keep up with classmates or had difficulty with tasks that seemed simple for others. For example, one parent shared how their child had trouble understanding instructions in class, which later led to a more in-depth conversation with their teachers and a formal assessment. Many parents agreed that, in hindsight, the signs were there, but it took them a while to realize something more was at play.
Once a parent notices signs of learning difficulties, the next step is often seeking a professional assessment. This process can be daunting for many parents, as the decision to have their child evaluated might come with feelings of uncertainty and fear of the unknown.
Shelani reassured parents that seeking a diagnosis is a positive and empowering step in supporting a child’s education. She recommended parents consult educational psychologists or specialists who can offer insights into the child’s challenges and help develop a tailored support plan. She emphasized the importance of open communication with teachers and school staff, as they can play an instrumental role in identifying challenges and supporting the child in the classroom.
A number of parents in the group shared their personal journeys of seeking professional support. One parent spoke about how difficult it was at first to admit their child needed help, but after consulting an expert, they found a clear path forward. Another parent discussed the challenges of finding the right resources but encouraged others to persist, noting that the support they found made a world of difference in their child’s academic life.
Perhaps one of the most powerful parts of the conversation was discussing the stigma and misconceptions that often surround learning disabilities. Shelani acknowledged that many people still associate learning disabilities with a lack of intelligence, but she stressed that learning disabilities are not a reflection of a child’s potential. Instead, they are simply differences in how a child processes and understands information.
Parents shared their own experiences with stigma. Some talked about the societal pressures they felt when their child was labeled as “slow” or “behind,” while others discussed how their communities didn’t fully understand the nature of learning disabilities. Many parents spoke about how they worked to educate others and dispel myths, stressing the importance of fostering a culture of understanding and acceptance.
As the conversation shifted toward practical solutions, Shelani shared a number of effective teaching strategies that parents can implement at home. She suggested using visual aids, breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, creating a consistent routine, and incorporating games into learning to make it more engaging. Patience and flexibility were key, she added, as each child’s learning style is unique.
Parents shared a wealth of practical tools and strategies that had worked well for them. One parent mentioned using visual schedules to help their child stay on track with daily tasks, while another parent found that using interactive apps and educational games helped their child engage better with school subjects. Several parents recommended using positive reinforcement, such as praise or small rewards, to motivate their children and build their confidence.
An important takeaway from the session was the power of community. Shelani emphasized the importance of seeking out resources, such as local support groups, online forums, and professional networks, that can offer guidance and reassurance during the journey of supporting a child with learning disabilities.
Many parents in the conversation shared the resources that had helped them, from local workshops and advocacy groups to online communities that provided invaluable support and shared experiences. The collective knowledge of the group reminded everyone that they don’t have to navigate these challenges alone.
The Parent Talk Show was an incredibly successful and enriching conversation, thanks to the openness and engagement of both Shelani Dias and the parents who participated. The session demonstrated the power of sharing knowledge and experiences in a supportive environment. It highlighted how important it is for parents to stay informed, be patient, and advocate for their child’s unique learning needs.
As Shelani so thoughtfully reminded the group, learning disabilities are not something to be feared or ashamed of. With the right strategies, resources, and support, children can thrive academically and develop the skills they need to succeed in life.
This Parent Talk Show has once again proven the strength of the Parenthrive community—a space where parents can come together, share their insights, and learn from each other. We look forward to more discussions like this and encourage parents to continue the conversation, both within our community and beyond.