Byron RourkeNon Verbal Learning Disabilities
Our children process information differently. It is a neurological biological reality that the brains of children with Nonverbal Learning Disorders are different. They need different approaches to learning. To learn they need to have qualified teachers that have been educated to apply the correct learning model. In other words, they need to know your child.
Parents also need this learning to gain the tools they need to support and advocate for their child. Our children need to be themselves in a world where they are labeled as different. As parents, we need to learn the correct way to help our children be successful.
Whether you are a parent of a newly diagnosed child, a teacher looking for more information on this disorder or a professional interested in broadening your understanding of NLD, we hope you find this site helpful.
My Story:
As the mother of a child with Nonverbal Learning Disorder I have learned first hand the frustrations and joys of raising a child that doesn't fit societies molds. After years of collecting information, helping my own child, developing IEPs, selecting doctors, practitioners and services I am now going to share what I have learned to hopefully make this journey easier for others.
Elementary school was hard, I found myself at odds with the schools at every turn while they labeled my child a behavior problem, impulsive and oppositional. My child at home was not the way they described him at school. He is incredibly bright and verbal, although I recognized his social issues. This led to many battles with the schools, IEP meetings, placements, medications and many other things that just didn't work. I watched my child slip into the crack of not being able to get a proper education. I was frustrated that my child was getting pushed aside because of his disability. I just could not let that happen. My child is highly intellgient and should have a crack at a normal life and college.
Because of my journey with my own child and my educational background and research, I have learned how to identify what works and what doesn't for an individual child regardless of their diagnosis. There is a way through the frustration and into knowledge, direction and independence for our children. I want to use my skills to help you help your child.