BOOK REVIEWS
Jay Matthews, Education Writer Learning Disabilities: Understanding the Problem and Managing the Challenges,” (195 pages), is written expressly for families. The author knows that special education teachers, like she was before retiring, do their best to help every child. But the vagueness of the regulations, the tightness of the superintendent’s budget, the limits of the deputy superintendent’s experience with learning disabilities and other unpredictable factors often put the parent at a severe disadvantage. However,knowing the weak spots in the bureaucracy will give mothers and fathers a chance to squeeze as much from the law as it was intended to give them. I have never seen a book on this subject with so much practical advice for every situation from assessment through classroom management, and how to help the child at home. It is as if the author was sitting at your kitchen table, sipping a mug of coffee and answering all your questions deep into the night. Parents may want to buy two copies of “Learning Disabilities,” since their first is likely to become marked-up and dog-eared beyond recognition. (The book) will fit into a purse or a jacket pocket, ready to be pulled out when confusion thickens and nerves rub raw. I’m not sure I could handle the situations special education parents deal with every day, but with the help of (this) author, I would have a chance to get started without being knocked over, and gain time to get my balance.
Cheryl Malandrinos, July 7, 2009 http://thebookrack.wordpress.com
I didn’t know the majority of this information (when I needed it, and that 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. ...a history of Special Education 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 book 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.
ldparents.blogspot.com. Friday, July 17, 2009. Posted by Anne Brown’s book is filled with information for parents trying to navigate their way through the public school system. She thoroughly discusses the laws, what “free and appropriate education” really means and what effect being placed in special education can have on a child’s education. I loved the organization of this book, particularly the action points and summary at the end of each chapter. She goes into detail about specific challenges, what each disability looks like at home and in the classroom and what a parent should do to help the child with classroom accommodations or professional help. She’s obviously well educated and promotes encouragement and understanding on behalf of learning different children. I agree with many of Brown’s points, even if they are hard on parents. ...It’s a parent’s job to fill in the gaps and Brown does not mince words in making that point.
(This book)...is a smorgasbord of information for both parents and educators of children with learning disabilities... 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. It is beneficial for educators as it can serve as a reminder of concepts learned many years ago in college, (however)... Parents will benefit the most because...Brown is good at reinforcing the rights of parents... 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.
Bettie Corbin Tucker, For Independent Book Reviewers. www.bookreviewers.org
As I read Learning Disabilities by Etta K. Brown, I found myself wishing that this book had been available...many years ago when I could have benefited from it. ...I am confident that the information conveyed in this book will make a difference in the lives of many children today. Parents need to understand that their rights are numerous and far supersede those of the school district... (Parents)will learn about their rights, entitlements, and how to participate in the development of their child’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP) by being proactive... The author makes it clear that her purpose in writing this book is to give parents a voice to ensure that their children get an appropriate education. She asks whether or not special education is always appropriate, even though a child is considered to be eligible. It is my recommendation that all parents, teachers, and caregivers of children should have a copy of Learning Disabilities in their library. It is an important book, perhaps somewhat controversial in places, but certainly well-researched with information vital to the well-being of our children.
You will make a world of difference for those who read your book on learning disabilities....Joilene Richards,San Francisco, California, Retired School Counselor The book on learning disabilities was an easy read. No complicated studies to decipher, just valuable information which can be readily utilized. I could have used some of these ideas when I was working with this population.... Alice Benson, Seneca, South Carolina ...retired teacher of learning handicapped children. "We know that there's …huge denial about the needs of the kind of children you care about. All of us "learning disabled kids" have the potential to become valuable citizens but it takes wise teaching vs. the abuse that too often comes our way.” This Book on Learning Disabilities will prove to be a lifesaver for some lucky child with parents that really care and are willing to become involved."... Anita King, Rossmore, Californuia, Medical Social Worker. "A road map for the lost, a manual for the confused, a text for students, and a must for the advocate."...Edith K. Jones, retired teacher of handicapped children. "There's always more to learn. We're never too old to teach. You are offering such valuable help! We know that some parents need support for years -- even decades. I hope you find a few people who will use your wisdom wisely."...Uncheetah Wilson, San Francisco, California, retired Social Worker. Holiday Special 25% off
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