As teachers we are very familiar with the symptoms and clues that help us see who students with learning disabilities are. It is easy for us as we are not the parents of these children. Often times, parents are slow to realize their child may have a learning disability. Waiting for thier child to show signs of being "normal", parents unintentionally delay the help that is needed. Even later to realize there is a difference is the child. Children who do not learn at a 'regular' pace become frustrated as they feel they cannot keep up with the rest of the class despite their efforts.
According to an article by Myra Orenstein, our children are yearning to learn, dispite their disabilities and challenges. The earlier steps are taken to help someone with a disability the greater the chance of overcoming the disability. Helping children cope with their disabilities provides a better student and more learning opportunities. The frustration alone takes so much away from a child who is making every effort to learn. Guided Imagery has clinically been shown to have a child/teen and adult feel good about themselves again. Having them focus on their strengths rather than their weaknesses.
Also, teaching them positive, healthy ways to deal with the world and themselves. Teaching them to express their feelings and to let them know, that everything that they are feeling is ok.
The use of our guided imagery c.d.s. is one very important and simple tool that is helpful to kids/teens as well as their parents.
School is difficult for all kids today. There is so much additional stress, pressures, homework and expectations.
One of the most common areas where learning disabilities are noticed is in the school environment. Often the inability to concentrate or low test scores are a common symptom.
In addition to dealing with everyday stressors, schools nationally are using our clinically proven guided imagery c.d.s as part of health classes and in preparation for tests.
It teaches that by facing the issues and "releasing them" how much better they feel.
Well documented research has shown that the use of guided imagery can reduce test anxiety and improve test scores.
Wachelka D, Katz, RC showed in a well documented research study that the use of guided imagery reduced test anxiety and improved academic self-esteem in students with learning disabilities. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 2000;Sep, 30(3):191-19
A powerful, proven and simple technique to help children and teens achieve this goal is guided imagery.
Since children are "naturals" at using their imagination. Begin by encouraging them to utilize all of their senses:
The ability to visualize with colorful, vivid images, rich imagination and detailed action are natural skills for kids/teens.
These same skills have been found to be very useful in empowering people to overcome obstacles and traumas that they may have had or still have in their lives:
The use of our guided imagery c.d.s. have been shown to:
improve memory
enhance learning
and to be healed from possible traumas in their life, ( physical, or emotional).
Imagery is extremely helpful in developing focus and concentration
calming racing and sometimes frightening thoughts
or coping with stress/anxiety
and increasing positive study skills
enhancing social skills
and learning how to express feelings, rather than keeping them bottled up inside.
Footnotes: http://www.guidedimageryinc.com/g_learning_dis.html
Contributed by Shakima Bates