Diagnosing Possible Learning Disabilities

In the United States we often take many things for granted, and having the ability to have our children diagnosed with possible learning disabilities and treated in public schools is one of those things we just take for granted. However, in many countries, there are no laws which require that children be diagnosed with disabilities and be provided special services to help with these disabilities. For example, in Israel,"there is no law obligating the schools to identify students with learning disabilities and to design programs for helping them." (1) In 1964, a non-profit called Nitzan which stands for the Israeli Association for Children and Adults with Learning Disabilities, was founded by parents and volunteers who wanted to help provide an assessment tool which could be used to diagnose those who struggle with learning disabilities. According to Nitzan's website, their goal is to "assess and assist individuals with learning disabilities, adaptive problems and functional difficulties and to enable Israelis with learning disabilities to achieve their full potential." This important non-profit also provides employment assistance to adults with learning disabilities as well as "improving the social status of children and youth with learning disabilities." Although it can be difficult to believe, there is actually quite a stigma that comes along with a child having a learning disability. Programs that create awareness about learning disabilities is very important to helping children and adults achieve their potential in life and not be held back by what others consider a disability.

References:http://eng.nitzan-israel.org.il/