When parents first realize that their child has a learning disability or challenge, the amount of information that comes at them – from school staff, other parents and friends – can be so overwhelming.  It’s difficult to discern which information is credible and where to focus their efforts first.

The bottom line for most parents is practical application. Will your child get the education and support they need? And this is exactly where the support of an Educational Therapist (ET) comes in.

That’s why I want to attempt to demystify the process of finding help when your child is struggling with the learning process.

An ET can provide your child and your family with the support they need.

This week, I want to attempt to demystify the process of finding help when your child is struggling with the learning process. 

Everyone defines ‘therapy’ a little differently. As the Association of Education Therapists (AET) states, “Educational therapists combine educational and therapeutic approaches for evaluation, intensive individualized intervention, case management, and advocacy on behalf of children, adolescents, and adults with learning disabilities or other learning problems.” Educational Therapy goes far beyond traditional tutoring. We’re educators trained to provide educational solutions for your child’s needs and to assist you in making important decisions about your child’s education.

To help illustrate the work of an Educational Therapist, let me share a coaching story with you…

A couple recently found me at the recommendation of their private school when their child – we’ll call her Jill – was unable to pass the necessary kindergarten placement test. There was only a very short window of time to complete this test before the school year began, and Jill’s parents did not have a clear view of their Plan B. They were not sure what services were available at the school they were applying to and/or what other options might be available at an alternative site. In addition, they weren’t even really sure what their child was struggling with in regards to learning.

I understand how this new development can be upsetting and/or disappointing. It’s scary enough for any parent when their child begins a new school year. So it’s totally normal (and very common!) to feel a bit of panic or even guilt when you add in managing all the aspects that come with your child having a learning disability or challenge.

As an Educational Therapist, I help ease your fears by demystifying those unknowns.

In Jill’s case, I explained my assessment procedure to the parents. While I do administer some formal and informal assessments, I do not diagnose. I can explain and show parents where their children struggle academically, what specific challenges their child may struggle with, and what I could do to help improve their existing skills and support the child.

With Jill specifically, she was not yet at the place in her academic development to join the school her parents had hoped she would attend from kindergarten onward. Placing Jill in a more supportive, less academically rigorous environment, at least for a couple of years, turned out to be a better fit for their child. In addition, this school was a public school, rather than private.

Why?

Public school comes with built-in assessment, IEPs, and staff support that you’re already paying for with your taxes. You should take advantage of those opportunities, even if you just utilize the assessment available and do not end up attending the school. I helped make a plan for Jill and her family, and we began working together immediately.

Situations like this are speed bumps and detours, not dead ends.

Just like Jill, who is successfully settling into her new school and appropriate educational environment, your child can begin to close the gap between their skills and expectations with the proper supports in place.

There are professionals available to you who can help you understand and manage any learning disability or challenge your child may have. To find an Educational Therapist in your area, please visit aetonline.org. From this database, you can view a variety of Educational Therapists with different specializations.

If you’re in the Los Angeles area, I’d love to meet with you and your student to see how I can help in your journey.

What other questions do you have about the role of an Educational Therapist, and how they may help you and your family? Let me know in the comments below.