Posted by LKF on May 10, 202 at 20:05:47:
In Reply to: Early Elementary Interventions/Strategies That Work? posted by Rosemary on May 09, 202 at 05:09:37:
: Hi. I’m glad to have found this board. My first grader has recently been diagnosed with NLD. She is also gifted in some areas.
: So far, most of her difficulties in school are social. Very low threshold for frustration, emerging anxiety and depression are among the issues that most concern us. Academically, math and producing written output seem to give her the most grief.
: We will soon be meeting with school staff to discuss interventions for next year. I would really love to hear about what has worked and even what has proven to be not helpful.
: Also, any advice about what we should expect about developing an IEP? So far, neither an IEP nor a 504 (what is a 504?) has been mentioned and my concern is that the responsibility will fall solely on the regular classroom teacher. My child’s teacher this year, who is a very good teacher, readily admits that she cannot meet needs.
: Thanks!
Hello:
Sue Thompson has some excellent articles on this website (and on NDline) regarding interventions for NLD students, and how to develop an appropriate educational plan. Also, Pam Tanguay’s book about NLD in the Classroom became available April 1 and has tons of very practical and useful information for administrators and teachers.
My NLD son’s issues are primarily visual/spatial and fine motor. His social issues are OK for now (also 1st grade). So, I really can’t offer advice on the social aspect. Although we do see a lot of frustration with our son, primarily due to the efforts he puts forth to meet his educational demands (mainly math). Once he gets home I try to make his day as easy as possible.
Regarding the IEP, the GOALS drive the SERVICES. So, make sure you have appropriate goals. I would never sign an IEP at the table. Take it home, think it over, perhaps ask a spec ed professional or an advocate to look it over. These are reasonable requests to make of the team. A 504 plan is legally enforceable also. It is section 504 from the Americans w/ Disabilities Act. However it covers more environmental issues – preferred seating, quiet work area… In my district a child cannot receive spec ed remediation on a 504 plan. So, don’t agree to a 504 if you want spec ed services.
Good Luck, hope this helps!
LKF