Understood.org for Learning & Attention Issues

This is a social good post on behalf of Element Associates.

Raising a child with learning and attention issues is a journey. And it’s one that’s full of ups and downs, successes and challenges, questions and decisions. But what if your child is struggling and you do not even realize it IS a learning or attention issue?

In the U.S., 1 in 5 children struggles with brain-based learning and attention issues that affect reading, writing, math, focus and organization. These issues are a lot more common than most people think, and while learning and attention issues may not be as visible as other health issues, they’re just as real. Unfortunately, many kids go undiagnosed because parents to think that their children are just being lazy, need to work harder, or that they are in a phase that they will grow out of.

Understood.org has launched the new #BeUnderstood campaign to generate awareness about learning and attention issues and encourage people who are seeing or experiencing signs of learning and attention issues to visit Understood.org, learn about these issues, and take that crucial first step in getting their kids the help they need to thrive in school, at home and in life.

Only 68% of students with learning issues graduate with a regular high school diploma. 55% of students with learning and attention issues have had some type of involvement with the criminal justice system within eight years of leaving high school. But contrary to what many people believe, there is no correlation between learning and attention issues and IQ. With the right strategies and support, these children can succeed in the classroom—and outside of it too. Understood.org has the information, strategies and expert insights you need at every stage of your unique journey.

• Understand what you’re seeing – It’s hard to see your child struggle and not know why. Without understanding the reasons for his behavior, you may even come to some wrong conclusions.
• Understand what your child experiences – You may know about your child’s specific learning and attention issues. But what do they experience on a daily basis?
• Understand what you can do – Whether you’re new to this journey or have been on it for a while, you want to help your child make progress and find success.

With the right diagnosis, parents and teachers are better able to understand what their children are going through. This leads to a better understanding of the help that they need in order to be successful. When a child is able to fully understand and overcome whatever struggles they are facing, they will finally feel normal. They will have a higher self-esteem and feel more in line with their peers. This is a BIG deal!