In a touching article from the Belleville News-Democrat, Atlanta Falcons defensive back David Irons Jr. discusses his experiences growing up with a learning disability. Like many other kids with learning disabilities, he tried to avoid being called on to read. Also like too many kids with learning disabilities, his learning struggles were sometimes misunderstood, and he was punished because teachers thought he was clowning around.
While most teachers are well-informed about the signs of learning disabilities, it is important for parents to know the signs as well. In David Iron's case, despite having a severe allergic reaction in infancy that could have affected his ability to learn, there was apparently no evidence of developmental delays in childhood. His disability was not discovered until high school. Perhaps he was not evaluated because he was seen as a "slow learner" rather than learning disabled.
If you suspect your child has a learning disability, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. You can begin the process for having your child tested by making a referral. Here's how to begin the referral and testing process.
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