''Learning problems are almost invisible outside the classroom. They make life incredibly difficult for the children who live with them; families and teachers of these children are equally challenged. This book is a rare gem, which provides support to families and teachers that will have an immediate, direct impact upon the lives of children.''--Anita L. King, Licensed Clinical Social Worker
The book is an easy read. No complicated studies to decipher, just valuable information which can be readily utilized. --Alice Benson, Retired Special Education teacher
Learning Disabilities: Understanding the Problem and Managing the Challenges... is a smorgasbord of information for both parents and educators of children with learning disabilities. Divided into three parts, Brown covers environmental influences on learning disabilities, history and laws pertaining to special education, and how to observe and accommodate special needs both in the classroom and at home.
This book is not one that can be read quickly in one sitting. Instead, it is meant to be read slowly, absorbing each bit of information before moving on to the next part. Brown even tells readers at the end of Part I to stop and be sure they understand what they have read before proceeding to the next part.
The language is technical, yet understandable. It reads almost like a textbook, fully explaining each term in context. Concepts are subdivided in bold print, and bulleted lists allow for easy readability and easy searches within the text. I just wish there would have also been an index in the back.
It is beneficial for educators as it can serve as a reminder of concepts learned may years ago in college. It may also provide new information, especially for those who are not as aware of some of the learning disabilities contained within. Research in this area is constantly evolving, and it can be overwhelming to keep up with it all.
Parents will benefit the most from Learning Disabilities. Brown is good at reinforcing the rights of the parents of the child with learning disabilities. Many parents quickly give in to schools, even when they don t have to do so. This book arms them with information about the disabilities, accommodations that should legally be made, and the phraseology of the laws that back them up.
Brown also articulates accommodations that should be attempted at home to facilitate the child's learning process. School and parents need to consistently work together to truly help the child.
A unique aspect of the book is Etta K. Brown's desire to help parents in any way possible. She has a website that is dedicated to providing information to parents. She encourages parents to email her with any questions, or if they are feeling dejected about the process. The goal is to be an advocate for the child, though she and her partners cannot provide legal advice as attorneys.
I found this book to be a great review of the special ed laws that I learned several years ago. It provided further information about issues I am starting to see more of in my classroom, that perhaps I haven't before observed. It gave me language to share with parents as they go about the evaluation process. The openness and willingness of the author to discuss issues also provide a lead for me to share with my parents. --Andrea Coventry, BookPleasures.com
...If only I had this book in my possession when I began the difficult process of having my daughter assessed, I would not only have done things differently, I would have been a better advocate for my child. I didn't know the majority of the information found in the book, which is why I believe that every parent with a child who has been recommended for an assessment needs to read it before taking any step in that direction.
In addition to the impact that diet and sleep have on brain function, the author discusses developmental readiness and how immature development may affect classroom performance. She spends time on the subject of retention and why it isn't always the best solution. This book also covers how parenting, emotional trauma and toxic metals can affect development.
After getting an understanding of learning disabilities and environmental influences that impact a child's ability to learn, Brown moves on to a history of Special Education and provides an in-depth look at the entire process of determining eligibility, tests and testing, and the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). She is a strong proponent of parents acting as advocates for their children.
The last section of the book shares signs and symptoms of learning disabilities and accommodations and modifications that can be made at home and school to provide the best environment for your child's learning based upon the disability she is trying to manage.
Learning Disabilities will empower parents to take an active role in their child's education and provide them with the tools to be the best advocates for their child.
I highly recommend Learning Disabilities by Etta K. Brown. Every school should have multiple copies on hand to assist parents with the process. --Cheryl Malandrinos, thebookrack.wordpress.com
