Ask Ellen: How to Advocate for Your Child’s Learning

By Ellen Braaten, Contributor and Josh Eng, Communications Coordinator

Posted in: Multimedia, Parenting Concerns, Videos

Topics: Learning + Attention Issues, Q+A

A learning disability causes difficulty in an area of learning, such as reading, writing, or math. Challenges in one or more of these areas can affect a child’s ability to thrive in the classroom. But it’s not always clear to parents what to do when their child is struggling. Where can you turn to get an evaluation for your child? What kinds of accommodations and services are available in school?

In our first episode of Ask Ellen, our new Facebook Live Q&A series, Dr. Ellen Braaten answered questions from parents and caregivers on how to support kids with learning challenges, and ways to keep the learning going while they’re at home. Tune in to find out how you can advocate for your child and help them be more successful in school! 

Media List 

• Learning Disabilities 101 (MGH Clay Center)  
• What Are Learning Disabilities? (Understood) 
• When Is Getting A Firm Diagnosis Important? (MGH Clay Center)  
• Pros and Cons of a Private Clinic Versus Public School Evaluation (MGH Clay Center) 
• Who is Qualified to Conduct My Child’s Evaluation? (MGH Clay Center) 
• How To Get A Core Evaluation Through Your School District (MGH Clay Center) 
• Navigating “The System” (MGH Clay Center)  
• Playing the Insurance Game: When Is Testing Covered? (MGH Clay Center)  
• What Is A Section 504 Plan? (MGH Clay Center)  
• How Do I Know If My Child Needs Testing? (MGH Clay Center) 
• What Is An Individualized Education Program (IEP)? (MGH Clay Center) 
• Dyslexia, Part 3: Accommodation Options Available (MGH Clay Center) 
• Coping with ADHD: How a Young Man And His Mom Are Managing The Path To Success (MGH Clay Center) 
• Making The Most Of Your Parent-Teacher Conference (MGH Clay Center)  
• Stuck at Home? 20 Learning Activities to Keep Kids Busy (Understood) 

  

Episode produced by Joshua Eng  

Music by Dr. Gene Beresin 

Special thanks to Monique Costa, Mass General Social Media Manager, and the Mass General Marketing Department

We are deeply grateful to Lavinia Clay and the Clay Center Advisory Council for supporting our Ask Ellen Q&A series. Their steadfast commitment to the Clay Center’s mission makes our work possible.