Educating a Gifted and Learning Disabled Child

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 By: Judith Aquino <!--[endif]-->

Your son, the math whiz who also has an extensive vocabulary, seems unable to understand his reading assignments or complete his homework. At the advice of your child’s teacher, you agree to have him evaluated for a learning disability. When the results come in, you are more confused than ever. Your child performed at an advanced level in some areas, but extremely poorly in others. Is it possible that your child is both gifted and learning disabled? What does this mean and what can you do to make sure your child gets the help he needs?

As of now, the national percentage of students who are both gifted and learning disabled (GLD) remains unknown. Part of the problem is that experts have been unable to agree on a universal set of identifying criteria. Therefore, finding an educational approach for a student who learns some things effortlessly and struggles greatly in other areas can be very challenging, explains Courtney Crim, an assistant professor of early childhood education at the University of Texas at San Antonio. 

“There is still a lack of agreement and a variety of definitions that makes a discussion of students with GLD [gifted and learning disabilities] difficult,” said Crim. “With training and funding issues always on the agenda, finding appropriate programs for children who struggle in the ‘one size fits all’ model is a daily battle. Parents also struggle to find schools that will provide for their gifted children in a way that both challenges their potential and enriches their learning.”  

Despite these challenges, there is still much that parents can do to help their children receive a fulfilling education. Your first step should be to learn more about your child’s learning needs. Several useful sites include 2enewsletter.com, uniquelygifted.org, allkindsofminds.org, and hoagiesgifted.org. 

In addition, assess the learning recommendations in your child’s educational evaluation, says Wendy Eisner, a psychology professor at Nassau Community College and the coordinator of the “Achilles Project,” a program for GLD college students. “Think of it as a map for the way your child thinks,” suggests Eisner. “Show it to your child’s teachers and see if they can accommodate your child’s needs.” 

If you are not satisfied with your school’s approach and moving or providing home schooling are not viable options, there’s still hope.


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