The term “learning disabilities” covers a broad array of difficulties and challenges for children in the classroom. There can be problems in reading and other language based academics, mathematics or study skills and organization.
Strategies and accommodations in the classroom to help a child with learning disabilities succeed should be targeted specifically to the weaknesses and areas of challenge for the individual child. Normally, a meeting with teachers, parents and other school personnel will discuss what accommodations may help a child and how the school can implement strategies to help.
Many parents, however, don’t know where to start in asking for modifications or accommodations in the classroom. The following list should be used for guidance and to help parents begin to think about where their child is having problems and what type of accommodations can be included in the classroom.
Accommodations for Reading
- Use highlighters for underlining key concepts in books or in notes
- Use books on tape when available
- Allow for extended time to complete assignments or tests
- Provide outlines of material to be read
- Provide extra assistance in reading instructions or directions for assignments and tests
- Read tests to students or read certain sections of the test
Accommodations for Writing/Spelling
- Allow for tests to be tape recorded rather than written
- Supply the student with prewritten notes or have someone take notes for the student
- Supply the student with written assignment sheets, rather than having them copy assignments from the board
- Allow for extended time to complete assignments or tests
- Shorten assignments to allow students time to complete
- Provide students with spelling/word lists when completing writing assignments
- Allow students to use an electronic spell checker
- Allow students to either print or write in cursive, whichever is easier and more comfortable
- Provide proofreading before completion of a writing project
- Have student dictate assignment and have someone else write it
Accommodations for Mathematics
