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Read more here...

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Find out why ADHD symptoms in girls are often overlooked. Read about girls with ADD, and why girls are less likely to be diagnosed with ADHD.

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WAKE UP!!! and make mornings better...for EVERYONE:)

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WAKE UP!!! and make mornings better...for EVERYONE:)

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Morning routines can feel extra hectic with kids who learn and think differently.

Planning ahead is key to helping mornings go more smoothly.

Look for small ways to make school morning routines more relaxing.

No one likes rushing around in the morning. And for families with kids who learn and think differently, the dash from morning wake-up to leaving for school can be extra stressful. Your child might have trouble following a schedule, finding things, or coping with a jarring alarm clock. Try these tips to streamline school morning routines.

1. Start the night before.

To jump-start the morning routine, plan ahead. Before bedtime, have your child get a bath or shower out of the way. Then, ask your child to pick out an outfit for the next day. Take a few minutes to go over the next day's schedule together. Check that all books, homework, and changes of clothing are packed up and by the door.

After your child is in bed, give yourself time to make lunches and snacks. If you have breakfast as a family, set the breakfast table. Choose your own outfit for the next day, too, and pack what you'll need for the next day.

2. Take a few minutes for yourself.

If you can wake up just a little earlier than your child, it can help you feel more relaxed about what's ahead. Give yourself a few minutes to relax, eat breakfast, drink coffee, exercise, or do whatever helps you get in the zone for the day. A little bit of "me" time can make the hectic transition from home to work and school feel much calmer. And that might help your child with the transition, too.

3. Make wake-ups more relaxing.

How can you make early mornings less of a rude awakening? Loud alarms can be jarring and start the morning with an unneeded jolt (especially for kids with sensory challenges).

Set your child's alarm to play a favorite song. Try waking your child up with lots of snuggles or a favorite breakfast snack. A more pleasant wake-up doesn't mean it has to be longer - just

Make every day as predictable and routine as you can. Follow the same schedule before and after school. It can look something like this: Wake up, wash face, eat breakfast, get dressed, brush teeth, go over the day's schedule, leave for school. You can even use a picture schedule to help the day roll out easier. (These can be extra helpful for kids who struggle with reading.)

Designate spots for school supplies, sports gear, coats, and jackets. This way, your child always knows where to look for things when you're halfway out the door. Plastic containers or labeled baskets can keep items within easy view, which makes looking for things in the morning simpler.

Make sure there are clocks "in your face" around the house. Put them in your child's room, the bathroom, the kitchen - even in the hallway. Older kids can also wear a watch. By making time more visible, you'll help teach how to manage time - and show your child the importance of being on time.

Give manageable countdowns like: "At 7:25, I need you to put your coat on." Or "At 7:30, it's time to get your shoes on."

Have your child check and re-check to make sure everything's packed before leaving the house. This saves you from having to run to school later to drop off a forgotten folder or assignment.

Younger kids can come up with a silly phrase or song to help remember all the books and materials they need each morning. Older kids can make lists of all the items needed for each day of the week. Post it where your child will see it often and refer to it before leaving the house.

This is a simple way to help your child get the most out of a smoother morning. For example, if your child gets ready for school and still has time to spare before it's time to leave, play a quick game together or read a book. Starting the day with some cozy family bonding helps get everyone off to a solid start.

Does your child complain about not wanting to go to school? Here are ways to respond .

Prep food, outfits, and other items (your child's and yours) the night before.

Try to give yourself a few minutes of "me" time in the morning.

Use checklists and picture schedules to help everyone stay on track.

About the Author

About the Author

The Understood Team is made up of passionate writers and editors. Many of them have kids who learn and think differently.

Reviewed by

Reviewed by

Donna Volpitta, EdD is the founder of Pathways to Empower. Her work draws on the latest research in neuroscience, psychology, and education.

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8 ways to make school morning routines easier

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Morning routines can feel extra hectic with kids who learn and think differently. Planning ahead is key to helping mornings go more smoothly. Look for small ways to make school morning routines more relaxing. No one likes rushing around in the morning.

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Kids who learn and think differently often face challenges in school and socially.

Dealing with challenges helps kids build emotional strengths.

These strengths can help kids cope with tough situations throughout their lives.

Many kids who learn and think differently face challenges every day. They may struggle with schoolwork or socially, or both. And for a lot of them, the pandemic has created extra obstacles and made it harder to learn or work on improving skills.

Dealing with hurdles and setbacks over and over again is frustrating. Kids may get upset about them. But facing challenges can also build important emotional strengths. These qualities last a lifetime and help kids cope with tough situations.

Kids don't always see these strengths in themselves. You can help build your child's self-esteem by pointing out strengths when you notice them. Also, talk about why these qualities are so valuable.

Here are four key strengths that can come from challenges.

Some people call it perseverance. Others call it grit. When things don't come easily, some kids give up. But others keep at it. They don't let challenges keep them from trying.

Being a different kind of learner can help some kids be more thoughtful about other people's differences and needs. But they may not recognize it as empathy. It's just "how they are."

Kids who face challenges are used to being out of their comfort zone. That can make them more willing to try new things or tackle tough problems, even if they might fail.

Understanding their weak spots can give kids power and a sense of control. It lets them speak up for themselves and ask for what they need, which builds confidence.

There are other ways you can help your child build these strengths.

Facing challenges can help kids build determination, courage, and confidence.

Kids who learn and think differently may also be more thoughtful about other people's differences and needs.

Point out these strengths when you notice them in your child, and explain why they're important.

About the Author

About the Author

Kate Kelly has been writing and editing for more than 20 years, with a focus on parenting.

Reviewed by

Reviewed by

Molly Algermissen, PhD is an associate professor of medical psychology at Columbia University Medical Center and clinical director of PROMISE.

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4 strengths kids build when they take on challenges

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Kids who learn and think differently often face challenges in school and socially. Dealing with challenges helps kids build emotional strengths. These strengths can help kids cope with tough situations throughout their lives. Many kids who learn and think differently face challenges every day. They may struggle with schoolwork or socially, or both.

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Want a new way to connect with other parents of children who learnin differently?

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Want a new way to connect with other parents of children who learnin differently?

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IT'S HERE!! DOWNLOAD TODAY!! :)

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The first community app for parents of children who learn and think differently. Wunder is the only place where parents can safely connect while being supported by a team of leading experts - all for free.

Real parents

Inclusive groups

Personalized experiences

Share this page:

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The first community app for parents of children who learn and think differently. Wunder is the only place where parents can safely connect while being supported by a team of leading experts - all for free. Real parents Inclusive groups Personalized experiences Share this page:

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Why? What can I do?

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Anxiety can be short-term and related to specific situations. Or it can be a long-term problem that affects many aspects of life.

A common type of anxiety is performance anxiety. People get nervous about doing something they don't think they can handle, whether it's a math quiz or a job interview. People who learn and think differently often have this type of anxiety.

There are also more serious anxiety disorders that have a much greater impact on daily living. These include:

Learn about social anxiety in kids.

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Anxiety in people who learn and think differently

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Anxiety can be short-term and related to specific situations. Or it can be a long-term problem that affects many aspects of life. A common type of anxiety is performance anxiety. People get nervous about doing something they don't think they can handle, whether it's a math quiz or a job interview.

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Supporting your student's math learning at home

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Supporting your student's math learning at home

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Multisensory math is the bomb!

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Ideas for Parents, Teachers & Tutors

Single Presentation in Webinar Format

Engaging Students with Hands-On Manipulatives

Create simple bags of manipulatives or us objects commonly found at home to teach math with activities and responses. Students build conceptual knowledge as they experience math concepts using concrete materials.

Inexpensive place value manipulatives

Students use bundle-able objects to build the place value system and learn about expanded form.

Common household objects function as number lines and concept tools

Many objects commonly found in the home can be utilized for other purposes, solving word problems, or illustrating concepts. A simple measuring tape can function as a number line, a tool for rounding, a problem solver or a fraction guide.

Use what you have to teach what you need...

Instructors can create a basic place value mat with coins as the basic manipulative and review place value concepts while they teach the values of coins and making change.

Multisensory Math Presentations,

Workshops & Courses

The Multisensory Math Approach to mathematics instruction comes out of the general multisensory tradition which has been around since the early 20th century. It is also enhanced by strategies from Structured Literacy Instruction also known as the Orton-Gillingham Approach.

Full courses are offered at a non-profit training center in Rockville Maryland. They are available for graduate credit and have been used as the methods course for a degree in special education. The approach has been offered in workshop form at several universities and both public and private schools.

This website has been created by the instructor as a vehicle for offering smaller professional development vehicles for those who wish to enhance their own teaching options or simply try out the approach before delving into it in more depth. This website will offer a variety of forms and in a variety of lengths.

Full 30 hour graduate level courses which include the manuals, access to additional materials and live video conferences can be found at http://www.asdec.org

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Ideas for Parents, Teachers & Tutors Single Presentation in Webinar Format Engaging Students with Hands-On Manipulatives Create simple bags of manipulatives or us objects commonly found at home to teach math with activities and responses. Students build conceptual knowledge as they experience math concepts using concrete materials.

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Have a child who HATES homework?  You're not alone!

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Have a child who HATES homework?  You're not alone!

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Here's some helpful reactions to use.

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ADDitude recently asked parents of students with ADHD, "What are your most effective strategies for avoiding homework arguments?" Read through these insightful answers for homework strategies you haven't tried.

"I don't want to do my homework!" This is a rallying cry parents hear all too often from children of all ages. And the exclamation often ends the same way - in shouts, tears, temper flare-ups, and exhaustion for all involved.

If you're running out of ideas (and energy) to get your child to do their homework with no push-back, scan these tips from ADDitude readers and find new, effective strategies for avoiding school work arguments.

How to Avoid the Homework Wars

1. " Doing homework is part of the chores on our son's reward chart. This is one of the hardest tasks to get him to do, so we have assigned it the highest point value." - Kate, Hampstead, Maryland

2. "Giving them instant gratification of some kind before, during, and after homework will keep their dopamine at reasonable levels." - An ADDitude Reader

3. "A detailed checklist makes things much easier, because instructions are not just words in one ear and out the other. The process can be seen." - Heidi, Magna, Utah
[Click to Read: The Homework System That Really Works]
4. " We shut down the WiFi and take their phones." - Francois, San Rafael, California

5. " Give the kids the power to do their homework on their own terms and let them face the consequences. It's their work, not mine. " - S.W., Brandon, Mississippi

6. " We do homework as soon as he gets home, and he is still in the 'school zone.' I sit beside him and tell him to ask me if he needs." - An ADDitude Reader

7. "I remind my son that he feels better doing other things when his homework is done. I also remind him that homework helps to connect the dots and helps us know what questions we may have." - Stacy, Cary, North Carolina
[Read: Scripts to End Every Homework Fight]
8. "Being a special education teacher, I used the same accommodations at home that most students with ADHD should have as part of their IEP/504 Plan, such as extended time, modified instructions, audio books, and more." - Shawn, Sunset, Utah

9. "We allowed her to prioritize what gets done and have talked with teachers about what's absolutely necessary. Sometimes, we played games with the content instead of the way the teacher wanted it done. In all, good communication with teachers on homework alternatives is the best. It stopped the under-the-table screaming episodes." - An ADDitude Reader

10. " Once fighting or arguing starts, homework goes away to be dealt with later. I'm also a teacher, and I tell families the same thing. School work is hard enough - fighting over it is not going to make things any better." - Steve, Elk Grove, California

11. " Monetary rewards for good grades; loss of privileges like Xbox and basketball for missing work. There's also the clear expectation that my high schooler will reach out to his teachers when he needs extra help or falls behind. Lastly, I remind him that I'm on his team." - Aimee, Washington

12. " Pushing them doesn't work and only makes things worse. So, I give them a break to eat a snack and watch TV. Many times, they come back mentally refreshed." - Susan, Akron, Ohio

13. " I show empathy. I tell them that I hear what they're saying and repeat their frustrations back to them. They seem more willing to do the work once they feel their feelings and frustrations have been validated." - Emily, Minnesota

14. " Follow the house plant rule: make sure kids have had water, food, and sunshine (outdoor activity) before attempting to do difficult things. We must fulfill their basic needs before they can learn." - Patricia, Houston, Texas

15. "Arguing about homework occurs when parents take too much responsibility for a child's performance. Set up a structure and an organized space at home that allows for success. Be available to help when asked. Be kind and understanding of your child's experience. Remember that homework comes and goes; relationships last forever." - An ADDitude Reader

16. " I have taught history for 40 years, and I think there should be no homework. We should promote educational games on the Internet as homework, so children don't waste their computer time on nonsense and silly, unproductive websites." - Devora, Brooklyn, New York

"I Don't Want to Do My Homework!": Next Steps

SUPPORT ADDITUDE
Thank you for reading ADDitude. To support our mission of providing ADHD education and support, please consider subscribing. Your readership and support help make our content and outreach possible. Thank you.

Updated on February 17, 2021

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16 Productive Reactions to "I Don't Want to Do My Homework!"

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ADDitude recently asked parents of students with ADHD, "What are your most effective strategies for avoiding homework arguments?" Read through these insightful answers for homework strategies you haven't tried. "I don't want to do my homework!" This is a rallying cry parents hear all too often from children of all ages.

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Online Support-great articles!

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ADHD in Children: Help for Parents of Kids with ADD

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This comprehensive guide to parenting a child with ADHD won't waste your time with run-of-the-mill advice. You need ADD-tested strategies, and here they are - everything you need to know about oppo...

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Have a rigid thinker?  Want to help them to be more flexible?

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Have a rigid thinker?  Want to help them to be more flexible?

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Try these thinking activities

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Kids use flexible thinking for learning and everyday life. It allows them to think about situations in different ways and find solutions to new problems. For some kids, this skill comes naturally. But others have trouble with flexible thinking and don't see alternatives.

Playing games and doing activities that teach flexible thinking can help. Here are nine activities you can try at home or at school.

1. Play the Fannee Doolee game.

In this word game, Fannee Doolee prefers things that have double letters in their name to things that don't. For example, she likes b ees but not bugs. She likes je ll y but not jam.

Work together to come up with other things Fannee likes and dislikes based on that rule. Thinking of pairs of words that are similar but have a main difference helps kids learn to shift gears more comfortably.

2. Tell silly jokes and make puns.

Riddles and jokes that play with the meanings or sounds of words can be confusing for kids who struggle with flexible thinking. Show kids how different meanings of words can make people laugh.

For example, tell a joke like: "Why are fish so smart? Because they live in schools." Then talk about how the punch line uses two meanings of the word school. Encourage kids to come up with funny wordplay, too.

3. Make up new rules for games.

Kids who struggle with flexible thinking can have trouble seeing that there's more than one way to do things. Practice seeing alternatives by helping kids make up new rules for games.

For example, have players slide down ladders and walk up slides in Chutes and Ladders. Run the bases in reverse order in kickball. Once kids are comfortable with simple switches, try combining the rules of two games to make a new game.

4. Read Amelia Bedelia and other books that play with words.

Kids who are rigid thinkers may find it hard to understand that words can have more than one meaning. Help kids work on this skill by reading books like Amelia Bedelia.

Amelia takes everything very literally. For example, when she's asked to "draw the curtains," she draws a picture of them. Talk about what she should have done instead.

5. Play strategy and logic games.

Strategy and logic games help kids think about different ways to look at and solve problems and puzzles.

You can add to the benefits by teaching kids "self-talk" skills. Have them think out loud as they play and try to solve problems in the game. Doing that can help them see options and find strategies.

Help kids to view things in more creative ways by taking regular objects and seeing how many things you can pretend they are. For example, a funnel could be a party hat, a trumpet, and a unicorn horn. A whiteboard eraser could be a phone, a microphone, and a hairbrush.

7. Find more than one way to do everyday things.

Kids who are inflexible thinkers usually like doing things in a certain order. Making small tweaks to everyday routines can show them that there are different options.

For example, at home, kids might change how they make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches by spreading the jelly first. At school, they might map out a new route for getting from their classroom to the library.

8. Play theater games, like "Yes, and...."

Theater games help kids practice accepting and building off of another person's idea. "Yes, and..." is a partner game, so kids play in pairs with another child or an adult.

To start the game, one partner sets the scene with a statement like, "It's a cold day here in the mountains." The other partner adds on to it. "Yes, and I can't seem to find my winter boots." Partners go back and forth making "Yes, and..." statements until the story reaches an ending.

Flexible thinking is important for doing math. Help younger kids build that skill by playing the game "How many ways...." Gather a pile of different objects like game pieces, crayons, and beads. Then say, "Let's see how many ways we can make the number 10."

Kids can pick objects from the pile to show different number combinations that equal 10. For example, they might choose two red beads, five crayons, and three yellow beads. If they don't get through all the combinations, show them the rest. You can also take turns.

There are many ways to help kids build flexible thinking skills at home and at school. Families and teachers can share ideas and work together to help kids learn different ways to approach problems.

About the Author

About the Author

The Understood Team is made up of passionate writers and editors. Many of them have kids who learn and think differently.

Reviewed by

Reviewed by

worked as a classroom teacher and as an early intervention specialist for 10 years. She is the author of Amanda Morin The Everything Parent's Guide to Special Education. Two of her children have learning differences.

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Kids use flexible thinking for learning and everyday life. It allows them to think about situations in different ways and find solutions to new problems. For some kids, this skill comes naturally. But others have trouble with flexible thinking and don't see alternatives. Playing games and doing activities that teach flexible thinking can help.

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Most preschoolers and school-age children struggle with learning and behavior now and then. But what if the difficulty persists? Sometimes, that signals a learning disability (LD). Use this interactive tool to detect potential signs of LDs or an attention issue in your child or student. Then use the resources provided to learn more.

Start the Checklist

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LDs can have an impact on many skills. These include listening, speaking, reading, writing, reasoning, math, and social skills. LD is sometimes called specific learning disability or specific learning disorder.

This tool can't diagnose LDs or prescribe treatment. But it can help you understand signs of LDs and decide what to do next. As you use the tool, think about the person's behavior over the past six months or more. When you're done, you can bring any concerns to school personnel or other professionals. They can help you decide whether to look into screening or evaluation.

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The LD Checklist: Recognize and Respond - NCLD

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LDs can have an impact on many skills. These include listening, speaking, reading, writing, reasoning, math, and social skills. LD is sometimes called specific learning disability or specific learning disorder. This tool can't diagnose LDs or prescribe treatment. But it can help you understand signs of LDs and decide what to do next.

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The Joshua Center for Neurological Disorders is a vital resource for both children and adults who live with Tourette Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, ADHD and other associated neurological disorders.

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2018 Me and My World Award for Excellence in Teaching

We are thrilled to announce the winner of our 2018 Me and My World Award for Excellence in Teaching. Colin Mulvihill, from Raytown South High School (of Raytown C-2 School District) was nominated by Debra Mixon and her son Anthony and we were blown away by the impact he's had in her son's life. He receives a set of our Me and My World Social Skills Games and Curriculum (including the newest branch Speak Up for Schools).

Congratulations Mr. Mulvihill and thank you for everything you do for kids.

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2018 Me and My World Award for Excellence in Teaching We are thrilled to announce the winner of our 2018 Me and My World Award for Excellence in Teaching. Colin Mulvihill, from Raytown South High School (of Raytown C-2 School District) was nominated by Debra Mixon and her son Anthony and we were blown away by the impact he's had in her son's life.

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OT, Speech and Language, PT and more. I highly recommend Marian Hope!

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Marian Hope Center for Children's Learning

We provide a nurturing environment where children feel safe and loved. We focus on "integration" vs. "segregation" by incorporating peers without special needs into our therapy classes.
Read More

Marian Hope Academy

The mission of Marian Hope Academy Christian School for Creative Learning is to unite with families in providing a personalized education saturated in Christian roots that will foster a lifelong relationship with Jesus Christ to transform the world for God's Glory.
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Family Health & Nutrition

Marian Hope Center believes that to maximize the full potential of a child, it is important to focus on all aspects of a child. What a child eats is fuel for his/her brain, behavior and overall health. To make the most gains out of our therapy services, it is so important that our children feel "good" on the inside.
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Home & Community Outreach Services

Our Outreach Program is growing based on the high demands for therapy, community resources and trainings. We provide a variety of services in the home, daycares, preschools, private & Catholic schools, sporting organizations and any other community operation that desires the tools to successfully integrate all children despite their challenges.
Read More

Why You Should Get Involved

There are lots of reasons to get involved with the Marian Hope Center! Watch the video to the right for a little background about why we exist and what we do every day.

If you or someone you know could help us financially with our many ongoing projects, please contact our Executive Director, Heather Ruoff.

Please click the link below to make
an online donation.

Click to Donate

Upcoming Events

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Call Now Button

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Marian Hope Center for Children's Learning We provide a nurturing environment where children feel safe and loved. We focus on "integration" vs. "segregation" by incorporating peers without special needs into our therapy classes.

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Local Resource for families and teachers of people with Down Syndrome

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Local Resource for families and teachers of people with Down Syndrome

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KC DSG rocks!

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City

5960 Dearborn Street, Suite 100
Mission, KS 66202
913-384-4848 Phone
913-384-4949 Fax
info@kcdsg.org

Sign up to receive bi-monthly DSG E-blasts!

The Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide support and resources for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the professionals

who serve them. DSG seeks to provide the entire community with information and education to broaden awareness and foster positive attitudes regarding people with Down syndrome.

Thank you Kansas City and Central Missouri for Stepping Up for Down syndrome this year. Together, over $320,700 was raised. We are grateful for your support and for making a difference to our mission. The virtual event can still be viewed on DSG's Facebook page. Please continue to share your photos and videos on DSG's Facebook page. Use hashtags #StepUpWalk #StepUp or #StepUpChallenge

Donations are still being accepted through December 31, 2020

To donate to the Kansas City Step Up Walk, please use this link. https://p2p.onecause.com/stepupfordownsyndrome

To donate to the Central Missouri Step Up Walk, please use this link https://p2p.onecause.com/central-missouri-step-up-walk

Our Mission is Growing: your past support has helped our dream to serve people with Down syndrome-of all ages-come true!

You've Always Stepped Up: our mission needs your support now, more than ever! With the challenges non-profits are facing during this global pandemic, your support will have a direct impact on the people we serve now-and into the future!

Make a Lifelong Impact: the lasting impact of your support will help us expand our services.

Thank you again for supporting our mission, the families we serve, promoting community involvement and encouraging a lifetime of opportunities for people with Down syndrome.

Corona virus response

People with Down syndrome are at a heightened risk due to age and/or compromised immune systems. DSG's number one priority is the safety of the people we serve and our staff. Due to rising concerns related to the local and national spread of the Coronavirus/COVID-19, we have been closely monitoring the situation while planning for how to best keep the community we serve safe in this uncertain time.

Right now, our focus is on taking a proactive approach to protecting the health of the DSG community.
With that goal, DSG made the difficult decision to cancel or postpone multiple events and programs.

Please read a message from our CEO dated 4/14/20 regarding DSG's plan for keeping our members safe and healthy.

Expanding to meet the needs of those we serve!

In 2020, the Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City (DSG) will continue to expand our services, programs-and our campus-to better serve people with Down syndrome. We are not only diversifying and expanding our innovative, comprehensive therapy program that serves ages 4 - 20, but also launching new programs with the goal to serve all ages, from birth to late adulthood. With the expansion of our services, programs and staff (we now have 11 full-time employees), we have outgrown our current space in our office at 5960 Dearborn.

In July 2019, we acquired 5916 Dearborn, the building adjacent to our office and began fundraising in support of our project. With the goal of creating a world-class, 11,000-square-foot Lifelong Learning Campus, DSG will renovate our current space and the building next door.

Our Campus will set the stage for authentic, fulfilling lives by providing opportunities for people with Down syndrome to participate in programming, receive therapy, find meaningful employment, and enjoy friendships and a sense of community.

Construction is slated to begin this spring with our goal for the project to be completed by August. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting advancement that will enable us to better serve our families! Help us dream big for the future by donating to our building fund.

dsg team now providing online support

We are here to support you during this time of social distancing! Visit mykcdsg.org to start a live chat with a DSG member.

Is your adult son or daughter with Down syndrome...Living a productive adult life?Connected to a strong social networkngaged meaningfully in the community? DSG is committed to helping adults with Down syndrome achieve their full potential and is excited to introduce ACE!

E

Continuously learning new skills?

Click here to learn more.

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greater kansas city community foundation

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Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City

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5960 Dearborn Street, Suite 100 Mission, KS 66202 913-384-4848 Phone 913-384-4949 Fax info@kcdsg.org Sign up to receive bi-monthly DSG E-blasts! The Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide support and resources for individuals with Down syndrome, their families and the professionals who serve them.

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ADHD, Dyslexis, Dysgraphis, Autism information that's quick and easy to understand for parents and teachers

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How can we help?

I want help with behaviors , learning , and everyday skills

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Essential resource spotlight

Are you wondering why your child is struggling?

We're here to help if you're feeling overwhelmed. Take N.O.T.E. (Notice. Observe. Talk. Engage.) is a simple step-by-step tool that can help you figure out if the struggles you're seeing might be signs of a learning and thinking difference.

"I have a hard time focusing, mostly in school. When I do my homework, I kind of feel stressed out because it feels like so much even though it's not too much."

Emperor Kaioyus, Grade 4

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Understood - For Learning and Thinking Differences

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Understood.org is the resource that helps the 70 million people with learning and thinking differences anticipate the challenges, barriers, or opportunities in life and confidently reach their potential.

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Are you now seeing what your teachers see?

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Are you now seeing what your teachers see?

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You're so not alone! Check this out...

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By Essence Thomas, as told to Tara Drinks

Like many parents, Essence and Marlin Thomas of Columbia, South Carolina, juggled full-time jobs and distance learning last spring. For them, the experience was a game-changer.

Both are essential workers. Essence is a facilities manager in an emergency room. Marlin is a supervisor at a local prison. During the shutdown, they worked together to figure out the best way to be there for their daughters, 6-year-old Makenzie and 2-year-old Morgan.

At first, Makenzie had a hard time. She was overwhelmed by the work and, like many kids, missed her friends. She struggled with reading and writing. So it was a relief when summer rolled around to give Makenzie - and her parents - a break. But Essence and Marlin didn't know what to do in the fall.

In the end, they decided to homeschool Makenzie this year. It's a different world from distance learning. And so far, it's working out well. They're even noticing big strides in Makenzie's progress.

Here, Essence shares why they made the change and what time at home has taught her about Makenzie.

Back in March, I thought to myself, "OK, we'll be fine for a couple weeks." But then those weeks quickly turned into months. And by the first week of April, I started seeing some changes in Makenzie.

Makenzie has always been a very independent child. So, when she started sneaking into our room to sleep with us, I knew something was up. I'd ask her why she wasn't sleeping in her own room, and she would tell me how lonely she was.

It didn't clicked for me right away what she was trying to tell me. But the more I watched her, the more I started to see that she was missing being in the classroom and with her friends.

This was also when I first started to notice her struggles with reading and writing. Makenzie would start out reading from left to right, but once she got to the end of a line, she wouldn't know where to pick back up.

Between not being around other kids and having a hard time learning, Makenzie was starting to get overwhelmed. So, I called my director and requested to work from home for a while so that I could help her better adapt.

We set up a new routine. Morgan's daycare had room for Makenzie to go there three days a week. That was a huge relief for me as I juggled managing my staff from home. That same routine is working for us now with just one catch: We're homeschooling.

Makenzie has asthma and wearing a mask all day isn't easy. Plus, with her being a working actress, we knew her absences would start to become a problem with the school.

I started researching homeschool associations for us to join and I found one that I felt would work best for us. I joined a Facebook community of African American homeschooling parents. And I even found an instructor in Hong Kong so that Makenzie could keep learning Mandarin like she was back at her school.

So far, things are going really well. Makenzie has learned all of her sight words for the year and it's only October. We even started reading chapter books together. I'm happy her reading is improving, but I still want to have her evaluated. I want to make sure I'm giving her the instruction she needs to do her best.

Keeping track of Makenzie's progress has been a big adjustment for me. When I noticed Makenzie struggling with math last month, I started to adjust her lesson plans. That way we could spend more time improving her math skills. I like having the flexibility to do that so she doesn't fall behind in her schoolwork.

If I can be honest, I think we really needed to make this change - both as a family and for Makenzie. This time has brought us all closer together and I feel like it's been the best thing we've done for her.

Wondering how other families are juggling the quarantine? Visit our YouTube channel to check out more from our Quarantine Chronicles series.

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Distance Learning Helped Me See My Child's Struggles and What She Needs to Thrive

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By Essence Thomas, as told to Tara Drinks Like many parents, Essence and Marlin Thomas of Columbia, South Carolina, juggled full-time jobs and distance learning last spring. For them, the experience was a game-changer. Both are essential workers. Essence is a facilities manager in an emergency room.

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Picture Schedules and Learning Contracts

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Picture Schedules and Learning Contracts

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Need something to motivate your student? Need an organizer?

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Keeping kids motivated to learn when you're stuck at home can be challenging. So can staying on a schedule. That's especially true for families with kids who learn and think differently. To help make it easier to manage, we've created these resources to support you and your child.

Use the learning contract to get on the same page about how you and your child will work together to make distance learning more manageable.

The picture schedules can help your child stick to daily routines. Tape them in a spot where your child can easily see them. To make your own schedule, you can cut out the individual tasks and arrange them in a way that works for your family.

About the Author

About the Author

The Understood Team&nbsp

is made up of passionate writers, editors, and community moderators. Many of them learn and think differently, or have kids who do.

Reviewed by

Reviewed by

Amanda Morin&nbsp

worked as a classroom teacher and as an early intervention specialist for 10 years. She is the author of The Everything Parent's Guide to Special Education. Two of her children have learning differences.

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Download: Picture Schedules and Learning Agreements for Your Child

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Keeping kids motivated to learn when you're stuck at home can be challenging. So can staying on a schedule. That's especially true for families with kids who learn and think differently. To help make it easier to manage, we've created these resources to support you and your child.

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In It: A podcast on raising kids who learn and think differently. 

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In It: A podcast on raising kids who learn and think differently. 

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from Understood.org
CHECK IT OUT!

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We're here for you. Find our latest COVID-19 resources that can help at home, at school, and at work.
Skip to content

Season 2

In an article for the New York Times, Andrew Solomon wrote, "The fact that you wouldn't have chosen something doesn't mean you can't find joyful meaning in it."

About In It

Discover In It, a podcast that explores the joys and frustrations of raising kids who learn and think differently. Join hosts Amanda Morin and Bob Cunningham as they hear from families (and sometimes even kids) about the everyday ups and downs.

Sign up for weekly emails containing helpful resources for you and your family.

By signing up, you acknowledge that you reside in the United States and are at least 13 years old, and agree that you've read the Terms and Conditions. Understood.org does not market to or offer services to individuals in the European Union.

Copyright © 2014-2020 Understood For All Inc. All rights reserved. "Understood" and related logos are trademarks of Understood For All Inc. and are used with permission. This website provides information of a general nature and is designed for information and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Understood is a nonprofit initiative. Understood does not and will not take money from pharmaceutical companies. We do not market to or offer services to individuals in the European Union. For more information, please review the Terms and Conditions.

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Media inquiries: media@understood.org (preferred) or(516) 654-7584

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Podcast | Understood | For learning and thinking differences

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We're here for you. Find our latest COVID-19 resources that can help at home, at school, and at work. Skip to content In an article for the New York Times, Andrew Solomon wrote, "The fact that you wouldn't have chosen something doesn't mean you can't find joyful meaning in it."

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Helps calm our systems and increases focus. Enjoy!

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A Simple Guide to Working / Learning From Home: HOW TO ADJUST

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A Simple Guide to Working / Learning From Home: HOW TO ADJUST

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This short video is VERY helpful for the transition to working at home, especially for those with ADHD.

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A Simple Guide to Working / Learning From Home: HOW TO ADJUST

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Here are some exercises from an OT on how to improve find motor and hand strength. Check it out!!

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NEED some one to one Support from the RESOURCE CENTER?

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NEED some one to one Support from the RESOURCE CENTER?

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Email me at
jmoreland@stekcschool.org

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Need help organizing your ideas?  Writing an essay or report?

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Need help organizing your ideas?  Writing an essay or report?

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Check out all these graphic organizers!! (I just love these:)

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An introduction with samples of filled-in graphic organizers (PDF File)

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NEED A Digital or AUDIO Book?  3 weeks for FREE from your library!  Multiple checkouts allowed. :)

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NEED A Digital or AUDIO Book?  3 weeks for FREE from your library!  Multiple checkouts allowed. :)

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Meet Libby.

Works for ipad, kindle or chromebooks

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Download the Libby App: ebooks & audiobooks FREE from your library

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Bring the library to you! Free digital books, magazines and more! Available for iOS and Android devices.

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Pope Francis beautifully conveys a future of inclusion.  

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Pope Francis beautifully conveys a future of inclusion.  

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His Holiness Pope Francis: Why the only future worth building includes everyone

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A single individual is enough for hope to exist, and that individual can be you, says His Holiness Pope Francis in this searing TED Talk delivered directly from Vatican City.