October is National ADHD and Dyslexia Awareness Month
Live Oak's Neurodiverse Learner Affinity Group had its kickoff meeting last week and wanted to share with the school community that October is BOTH National ADHD and Dyslexia Awareness Month. Dyslexia is a neurological condition caused by a different wiring of the brain. Dyslexia does not have a cure and individuals with this condition must learn alternative strategies for reading. Research shows that individuals with dyslexia are neither more nor less intelligent than the general population, and some believe the way individuals with dyslexia think can actually be an asset to achieving success.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common condition that is also caused by different wiring in the brain. ADHD can create challenges for children (and adults) with focus and attention, and it can also cause hyperactivity and impulsivity. People with ADHD often struggle with organization, following directions and managing emotions.
There are many resources that you can read to learn more about Dyslexia, ADHD and other views on neurodiversity inside and outside of the classroom:
- Video: See Dyslexia Differently: This animation seeks to preempt misconceptions among young audiences by shedding light on the real challenges dyslexic children face whilst also acknowledging their strengths and potential.
- Website: https://www.understood.org/
- Website: www.interdys.org
- Book: Finding my Superpower
- Book: Differently Wired
- Book: Overcoming Dyslexia: https://www.google.com/books/edition/Overcoming_Dyslexia/68rSDwAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&printsec=frontcover
- Podcast: https://learnsmarterpodcast.com/
- Podcast: https://www.flusterclux.com/
For more information about the Live Oak School Neurodiverse Learner Affinity Group, contact Leecia Welch, lwelch@childrensrights.org.
Live Oak School welcomes and admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, citizenship status, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and faith to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities of Live Oak School. Live Oak School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, citizenship status, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and faith in administration of its educational policies and programs, admissions policies, Adjusted Tuition program, and athletic and other school-administered programs.