Teens and learning disabilities

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Kids with learning disabilities need not have lower expectations than their peers. They can still achieve their academic goals, although they may require a longer time; for example, taking a smaller class load each year and spending an extra year to get their high-school diploma. In some provinces, colleges and universities also offer special services and resources to these students. A learning disability doesn't fade with time, but a person who develops strategies for offsetting the disability will improve his learning abilities as he matures.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the expanded term that encompasses what was once called attention deficit disorder (ADD), one of whose characteristics was hyperactivity. It is rare for it to be diagnosed as late as adolescence, but it's fairly common for the disorder to continue throughout adolescence and into adulthood. How it manifests itself may change during adolescence -- what once appeared as hyperactivity may evolve into a constant need to be busy and a feeling of restlessness. In about 60 per cent of cases, the original characteristics of the disorder continue, causing difficulty both for the teens and for those around them. But a child who responded well to Ritalin, the most common medication, may continue with this medication as a high school student.

Whether your child has been dealing with a learning disability for several years or the diagnosis is new, as a teen he must learn gradually to shoulder responsibility for requesting help when needed, for recognizing his personal responsibility for learning and implementing the life skills and learning strategies that will carry him into adulthood. It's still important for you to develop and support your teen's strengths. If he has an aptitude for sports or music or art, the pleasure he gains from successes in these fields will boost his self-esteem and give him added strength to surmount other obstacles.