If you suspect that your child has a learning disability (LD) there are steps you can take to help your child succeed in school. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) gives parents the right to request a formal evaluation from their child’s school district at no cost. But before taking this crucial step, there are a few things parents should do.
Talk to your child's teacher about your concerns. This is a very important first step! You may want to share NCLD’s LD Checklist and have a conversation about the teacher’s observations of your child in the classroom. Open communication with educators is key in helping your child succeed. Together, you can develop ways to support your child at school and at home.
Find out about pre-referral services offered by your child’s school. Before formally evaluating a child for special education, many schools have established processes for providing additional support and interventions for struggling students. Response to Invervention (RTI) is one research-based method of providing interventions for students as soon as they show signs of difficulty. Other schools may convene a “child study team” of professionals who recommend specific educational practices to get a student on track. Find out what your school can do or is doing for your child.
Keep careful records on your child’s learning. Keep your own notes on your child’s development and meetings with school personnel. Make sure to add to your file all communication about your child from the school: test scores, report cards, and written comments from teachers. Round out your records with examples of your child’s school work. Having an organized record will help you monitor your child’s progress and will be crucial in the evaluation process.
Know your rights. Federal law (IDEA) allows you, as a parent, to request a free formal evaluation for your child. Once you decide to make a formal request for evaluation, IDEA sets into motion a set of legal requirements and procedures for the school district. Knowing what to expect from the school is crucial in advocating for your child.
NCLD Public Policy Director Laura Kaloi--who's also the mother of a child with LD--explains how to request an evaluation under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in this helpful video. More >
It's not always easy to recognize learning disabilities. If you or someone you know displays the signs described in our LD Checklist, it's time to seek additional information or help. More >
If you suspect that a child has dyslexia, an evaluation can lead to a better understanding of the problem and to recommendations for treatment. Test results are also used to determine state and local eligibility for special education services, as well as eligibility for support progra... More >
Everyone has trouble from time to time remembering names, balancing a checkbook, following directions, etc. For most people, these are not problems that they experience on a routine basis. For others, however, problems with learning and applying information interfere with their daily... More >
If you suspect that your child has a learning disability (LD), don't despair. With early recognition and targeted intervention, children with LD can achieve as well as other children do. Students whose LD is identified and addressed before they leave third grade have the best chance ... More >
Your NameYour Street AddressYour City and StateYour Phone NumberDatePrincipal's NameSchool NameSchool AddressReference: Student's NameDOB: Student's date of birthSchool: Name of School and enrolled gradeDear XXXXXXX: I am writing to you because my child is experiencing difficulties i... More >
As a parent, one of the most important things you can do to help your child get a good education is to understand how she learns – especially if you are concerned that she may be struggling in school. But sometimes knowing what to do and where to find help can be confusing.
If you ... More >
My child is struggling 
Now that my child has 
If you suspect that your child has a learning disability (LD) there are steps you can take to help your child succeed in school. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) gives parents the right to request a formal evaluation from their child’s school district at no cost. But before taking this crucial step, there are a few things parents should do.
