PARENTS GUIDE SUMMARY

Part I is an introduction to the environmental influences since World War II, that are believed to be contributing to the incidence of learning disabilities that is increasing at a rate of 20% every 10 years.

Part II includes a definition and history of special education and its intended role and function in the effort to educate all children. The reader is introduced to the process of determining eligibility for Special Education, and Federal and State Legislation are explored in terms of the parent's rights in the process.

Part III is an exploration of processing disorders as required for a designation of specific learning disability. Behaviors exhibited in the classroom, and a rationale for the behavior, along with modifications and accommodations for the general education classroom are listed. These interventions are applied to the elementary, middle school, and high school environments as an aid in developing the individualized education plan (IEP).

Professional Reviews of Parents Guide

Parents may want to buy two copies of this parents guide “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. Jay Matthews, Education Writer, The Washington Post, October 9, 2009

If you are a parent, and suspect that your child has a learning disability or if an educator has suggested that your child has a learning disability, you will want to pick up a copy of Learning Disabilities: Understanding the Problem, Managing the Challenges by Etta K. Brown. It is the ultimate parents guide to learning disabilities.

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. Cheryl Malandrinos, The Book Rack, wordpress.com, July 7, 2009

The author makes it clear that her purpose in writing this guide is to give parents a voice that will ensure that their child with learning disabilities gets 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 have a copy of this Learning Disabilities book 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. Bettie Corbin Tucker, Independent Book Reviewers, www.bookreviewers.org

I loved the organization of this book, particularly the action points and summary at the end of each chapter. The author 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.

I agree with the author on many 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 when making that point. ldparents.blogspot.com. Friday, July 17, 2009. Posted by Anne

This parents guide...is a smorgasbord of information for both parents and educators of children with learning disabilities... Parents will benefit the most because... Many parents quickly give in to schools, even when they don’t have to do so. This book arms them with information about the types of learning disabilities, accommodations that should legally be made, and the phraseology of the laws that back them up. Andrea Coventry, Blookpleasures.com, August 1, 2009

This parents guide...is written in layman terms, and very easy to read and understand. It is a very well laid out book. Each chapter states facts, telling what it means by way of the learner and then very simply explains what is to be done. It is a very good book to have at your finger tips if you are involved in any part of a LD case, parent or teacher. It will remain in my library. I highly recommend it if you feel you child may have some learning difficulties. 4 the Love of Books Wednesday, December 23, 2009 Posted by Abi

Comments from Readers

You will make a world of difference for those who read your parents guide to 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 parent 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.

An electronic version (ebook) is available for international orders and others who may prefer a digital copy. Look for an immediate email from Pay Pal with a download link.

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