In society there is a dangerous belief that a gifted child won't have any learning issues. Also that a child with learning problems cannot be gifted!

However nothing could be further from the truth. In fact I would go so far as to say that some of the children I have worked with for learning difficulties are actually some of the most intelligent people I have met. They have the most amazing strategies for coping in the classroom. Many of them go undiagnosed for years because they are so good at hiding their difficulties!

As a parent you are their advocate. While the teacher may know a lot about them academically, you know a lot about them as a person. Both sets of knowledge are actually needed to see that a child gets the help and the extension they need. You don't want your child missing out on help because they are seen as 'bright'. And you don't want your child being overlooked because they need assistance in literacy.

So how can you help your child?

Firstly, don't give up on bringing issues you are concerned about before their teacher. Your child needs you to speak for them. Be polite and friendly. I don't know any teacher who lays awake at night thinking of new ways to torment children! However, if you do not get the help you need, keep asking more senior staff. Remember that not all teachers have been trained in how to recognise or help learning difficulties. In fact I was one of them for many years!

As well as pursuing answers at school however, you also need to pursue other help. You could lose precious time waiting for help that doesn't come , when a professional could have you well on the way to sorting out the issue.

So please call us or e mail us earlier rather than later! Not only can we help you work out what the difficulties is, but we could help educate your child's teacher. It will ease the teacher's load, your load and make a learning a fun experience for your child.