Jun 23 2008
Autism not a learning disability?!
autism-not-a-learning-disability.mp3
Autism is not considered a learning disorder, according to www.ldonline.org.
However, they describe learning disorders as “difficulty with understanding or using
spoken or written language, mathematical calculations, coordinate movements, or direct attention.”
In addition, state clearly that a person with a learning disability brain is wired differently.
I would like to know what part of my autism is not included in that description. The methods used to treat those learning disorders have helped me! The National Institute of Health even says that medication and therapy can be used to treat learning disabilities.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is considered a learning disability though.
My honest opinion: Any disorder that inhibits an individual’s ability to learn is a learning disorder and as such, Autism should not be excluded from this list.
Please remember to find the ability behind the disability and you will enable any person by removing the dis.
My autism may mean that I fit into more than one description of a learning disability; however, like those with learning disabilities, I can learn. And like those with learning disabilities, I can over come my disability through the use of adaptive techniques.
And indeed, you have learned so much, haven’t you! I hope my son does as well as he grows!