Photo Credit: Rifka Schonfeld

Learning Disabilities and
“Can Do Attitudes”

Children and adults with learning disabilities (LD) often encounter problems with tasks that “regular people” find simple and undemanding. These struggles can often make those with LD believe that they cannot succeed, no matter how hard they try.

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While the above tips hold true for all people suffering from a “can’t do” attitude, there are specific tips that can help parents of children dealing with LD:

Instill social skills. Not surprisingly, if children with LD feel confident socially, they will be more likely to foster a “can do” attitude academically. Therefore, it is essential to help your child with LD master social skills in order to provide him with an area of his life that is easy and enjoyable.

Model confidence. If you show your child that you believe you can conquer the world, ultimately, you are teaching him to act in the same way. Remember, from a very young age, your child follows your lead. If he sees you believing that you will succeed even at difficult tasks, he will be more likely to believe in himself.

Set realistic expectations. While it is important to be positive and proactive, do not push your child well beyond his capabilities. While he needs to believe he can do difficult tasks, if he constantly fails at his goals because they are impossible for him, he will not be able to gain a “can do” attitude.

Just remember, you can never succeed if you don’t at least try!

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An acclaimed educator and social skills ​specialist​, Mrs. Rifka Schonfeld has served the Jewish community for close to thirty years. She founded and directs the widely acclaimed educational program, SOS, servicing all grade levels in secular as well as Hebrew studies. A kriah and reading specialist, she has given dynamic workshops and has set up reading labs in many schools. In addition, she offers evaluations G.E.D. preparation, social skills training and shidduch coaching, focusing on building self-esteem and self-awareness. She can be reached at 718-382-5437 or at [email protected].