#LDchat Archive

Understood holds this weekly Twitter chat that aims to keep the momentum going and raise awareness of learning and attention issues. Follow along with hashtag #LDCHAT and follow users @understoodchats & @understoodorg. Experts will be available to answer your questions and concerns and share resources from Understood.org.

Wednesday January 11, 2017
12:00 PM EST

  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:00 PM EST
    Welcome to today’s LD Chat! This is Dan with the Understood team. #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:00 PM EST
    We're excited to have @DeborahLynam and Nichole Pugliese (@nfpugliese1) from @AIMSchool cohosting today's chat! #ldchat
    In reply to @DeborahLynam, @nfpugliese1, @AIMSchool
  • participatechat Jan 11 @ 12:00 PM EST
    Participate in the upcoming #LDchat by sharing resources and collaborating at https://t.co/jVmgneQXCV
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:00 PM EST
    We’ll be discussing the importance of parent-teacher relationships. #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:00 PM EST
    Who's with us today? #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:00 PM EST
    Peter here. I've been an LD kid, student teacher and parent. I wrote a book: Screwed up somehow but not stupid. #ldchat
  • AIMtoLearn Jan 11 @ 12:00 PM EST
    #ldchat Happy to cohost w/ @nfpugliese1 today! We are from @AIMSchool & @AIMtoLearn in PA. https://t.co/rOjob8eUWM
    In reply to @nfpugliese1, @AIMSchool, @AIMtoLearn
  • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:00 PM EST
    #ldchat Thanks for having me. I’m with @aimschool.
    In reply to @AIMSchool
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:02 PM EST
    Hi Peter! Happy New Year! #ldchat
  • commlearncenter Jan 11 @ 12:02 PM EST
    Hi, all! Happy New Year! #ldchat
  • sensoryf Jan 11 @ 12:02 PM EST
    Hi Everyone! This is Christine of @sensoryfr in Tampa Florida #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:02 PM EST
    Great having you again! Thanks for joining. #ldchat
    In reply to @commlearncenter
  • edielovesmath Jan 11 @ 12:02 PM EST
    Edie, Washington, DC. Academic therapist hangin' out with teachers and parents of older kids with ADHD. @UnderstoodOrg #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • SumPepandWong Jan 11 @ 12:02 PM EST
    I'm here and ready to discuss parent/teacher relationship and hopefully partnership. ;-) #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:02 PM EST
    Happy new year and may this be the year we are all understood! #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:02 PM EST
    Thanks for joining, Christine! What's the weather like in Tampa today? #ldchat
    In reply to @sensoryf
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:03 PM EST
    Thanks for joining, Edie! #ldchat
    In reply to @edielovesmath
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:03 PM EST
    #ldchat Happy to cohost w/ @nfpugliese1 today! We are from @AIMSchool & @AIMtoLearn in PA. https://t.co/0p05JXAOFe
    In reply to @nfpugliese1, @AIMSchool, @AIMtoLearn
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:03 PM EST
    That's the idea! #ldchat
    In reply to @SumPepandWong
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:04 PM EST
    We'll kick off in just another minute. Hold tight... #ldchat
  • BBabushka Jan 11 @ 12:04 PM EST
    And her amiga @BBabushka from Tallahassee/Miami #ldchat
    In reply to @BBabushka
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:04 PM EST
    Hi everyone! I am a parent of 2 boys with LD in public schools. #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:05 PM EST
    As always, we’ll use a Q1, Q2… format for questions. Please use the A1, A2… format for answers. #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:05 PM EST
    Glad to hear of another special ed. school @AIMSchool. I wrote a blog post Drowning in the Mainstream https://t.co/YU6SbzUCvM #ldchat
    In reply to @AIMSchool
  • lisaklipfel Jan 11 @ 12:05 PM EST
    Rainy SoCal. Parent. Tutor.Advocate. #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:05 PM EST
    Hi everyone. I have been working with dyslexic students for 7 years. Happy to be here. #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:05 PM EST
    First question... #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:05 PM EST
    Q1. Why is it important for parents to partner with their child’s teacher? #ldchat
  • UnderstoodJennO Jan 11 @ 12:05 PM EST
    Jenn here in chilly IA! #ldchat
  • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:06 PM EST
    A1. The parent is a main advocate for their child and a critical participant in the educational decision making process. #ldchat
  • UnderstoodJennO Jan 11 @ 12:06 PM EST
    A1: Teachers and parents spend so much time with the child, they MUST be on the same page. #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:06 PM EST
    A1: Parents & teachers can each advocate for child in different ways - a coordinated partnership is valuable to securing supports! #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:06 PM EST
    A1 They have an enemy in common! HA No, kidding. It's because what happens at school affects home and vice versa #ldchat
  • sensoryf Jan 11 @ 12:06 PM EST
    The weather can't decide on being warm or cold! But, I'm loving no humidity. #ldchat
    • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:02 PM EST
      Thanks for joining, Christine! What's the weather like in Tampa today? #ldchat
      In reply to @sensoryf
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:07 PM EST
    A1. It's important the child knows that parent and teacher are in alignment #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:07 PM EST
    A1 and because parents and teachers will have different insights into the kid (who should also be involved! A three legged stool) #ldchat
  • lisaklipfel Jan 11 @ 12:07 PM EST
    A1 understanding, level playing field, sanity of child (parent/teacher too). #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:08 PM EST
    Insanity is hereditary: You get it from your kids! :-) #ldchat
    In reply to @lisaklipfel
  • BBabushka Jan 11 @ 12:08 PM EST
    ESOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!! #ldchat
    • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:02 PM EST
      Happy new year and may this be the year we are all understood! #ldchat
  • edielovesmath Jan 11 @ 12:08 PM EST
    A1. A level playing field is important for teens with ADHD. Parents & teachers have same rules. @UnderstoodOrg #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • sensoryf Jan 11 @ 12:08 PM EST
    A1: Parent-teacher relationships that are positive and collaborative leads to student achievement. #ldchat
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:09 PM EST
    A1. Partnership keeps the relationship current and proactive #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:09 PM EST
    Why It’s Important to Partner With Your Child’s Teacher: https://t.co/gs1aeTVGZL #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:09 PM EST
    Consistent expectations can be key! #ldchat
    In reply to @edielovesmath, @UnderstoodOrg
  • massignmenthelp Jan 11 @ 12:10 PM EST
    Project based learning https://t.co/u8MMjb1Oxk #iolchat #LDchat
  • SumPepandWong Jan 11 @ 12:10 PM EST
    A1 because no one person can do everything. It takes a village. #teamwork makes progress. #ldchat
  • sensoryf Jan 11 @ 12:10 PM EST
    A1. When parents and teachers work together, it's easier to focus on student needs and create a strategic plan. #ldchat
  • CarrollSchool Jan 11 @ 12:11 PM EST
    A1: Parent-teacher communications is important in enabling teachers to give each child what he/she most needs - teamwork is key #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:11 PM EST
    So true. #ldchat
    In reply to @SumPepandWong
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:11 PM EST
    Yes, it's important to make sure there is a common understanding and knowledge base around the needs also. #ldchat
    In reply to @sensoryf
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:11 PM EST
    Q2. What are some ways for parents to build a strong relationship with their child’s teacher? #ldchat
  • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:12 PM EST
    A2. Communication & consistency between school & home is essential. Parents & teachers have to represent a united front for student. #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:12 PM EST
    A2: Let's see - Communicate often, be respectful of time & effort, say thank you, & encourage sharing of resources. #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:13 PM EST
    Respect the teacher's expertise and communicate as you would with a professional #ldchat
  • UnderstoodJennO Jan 11 @ 12:13 PM EST
    A1: I appreciate meeting my parents in person. Also a phone call and in person tend to be more relationship building #ldchat
  • SumPepandWong Jan 11 @ 12:14 PM EST
    A2 Heh, margaritas and 1/2 off appetizers. JK sorta. Making friends isn't necessary but it sure does help. #ldchat
  • sensoryf Jan 11 @ 12:14 PM EST
    Q2: Parents can write to teachers advising their preferred communication: email/phone, etc. Communicate and share info often #ldchat
  • edielovesmath Jan 11 @ 12:14 PM EST
    A3. @UnderstoodOrg Older kids want independence. Parents build strong relations with teachers by collaborating with teen too. #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • CarrollSchool Jan 11 @ 12:14 PM EST
    A2: Consistent, respectful and open conversations is critical for building parent-teacher relationships - conferences, 1:1, emails #ldchat
  • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:14 PM EST
    I agree, having problem solving meeting is important with parents in person. #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodJennO
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:14 PM EST
    Yes, respect expertise but don't be afraid to share your own. As parents we learn a lot about our kids learning issues. #ldchat
    In reply to @NonVerbalLD
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:14 PM EST
    Margaritas! Or caipirinhas in those hot early days of the school year #ldchat
    In reply to @SumPepandWong
  • lisaklipfel Jan 11 @ 12:14 PM EST
    A2. Provide info to teachers. Ask teachers what they need. What are their concerns/struggles. #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:15 PM EST
    For sure! No one knows the kid like the parents (if they are good parents, anyway) #ldchat
    In reply to @DeborahLynam
  • sensoryf Jan 11 @ 12:15 PM EST
    A2: Parents can decide how they can support their child's teacher/class based on their skillset and what the teachers need #ldchat
  • AssignmentHelpN Jan 11 @ 12:15 PM EST
    17 for ’17: Experts on E-learning & EdTech Trends for 2017 https://t.co/I9aiwWWsrV #iolchat #LDchat
  • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:15 PM EST
    I agree, often parents have insight to anxieties and behaviors that the teacher may not see. #ldchat
    In reply to @DeborahLynam, @NonVerbalLD
  • SumPepandWong Jan 11 @ 12:15 PM EST
    A2 Find common ground. Determine together what the team's strengths and weaknesses are. Brainstorm ways to fill in the gaps. #ldchat
  • BBabushka Jan 11 @ 12:15 PM EST
    Good advice for ALL relationships. #ldchat
    • CarrollSchool Jan 11 @ 12:14 PM EST
      A2: Consistent, respectful and open conversations is critical for building parent-teacher relationships - conferences, 1:1, emails #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:15 PM EST
    A2 Teachers report on what the kid does in school, parents can report on what they do at home. How much HW, etc #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:16 PM EST
    8 Tips for Building a Good Relationship With Your Child’s Teacher: https://t.co/NfCid92vZf #ldchat
  • angela_lange25 Jan 11 @ 12:17 PM EST
    I feel when families are appreciative of the work we are doing at school #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • kristinmosborne Jan 11 @ 12:17 PM EST
    A1: Communication between parent and teacher is paramount to a child's success. #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:17 PM EST
    A2: Look for opportunities to engage with teacher outside of child specific concerns - volunteer/community/classroom events, etc #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:18 PM EST
    How Often Is Too Often to Contact My Child’s Teacher? https://t.co/fVDKi2TfCQ #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:18 PM EST
    A2 Don't forget to communicate good news! Too often, parent-teacher communication is only about problems #ldchat
  • angela_lange25 Jan 11 @ 12:18 PM EST
    if parents come in & ask ?'s is always a positive sign we are going to be a team in building their child's education #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • UnderstoodJennO Jan 11 @ 12:19 PM EST
    A2: I love email updates as a teacher and a parent on what to anticipate if something has happened. It allows empathy. #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:19 PM EST
    Good point, in fact it's easier to build relationships around positive stuff! #ldchat
    In reply to @NonVerbalLD
  • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:19 PM EST
    celebrating successes is a good way to build home/school/student relationship #ldchat
    In reply to @NonVerbalLD
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:19 PM EST
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:20 PM EST
    A2. Volunteering in class when possible builds the relationship #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:20 PM EST
    8 Sentence Starters to Use When Talking to Teachers: https://t.co/XdhQhPdRQ2 #ldchat
  • kristinmosborne Jan 11 @ 12:20 PM EST
    Q2: Clear communication and especting everyone's time. #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:21 PM EST
    Q3. Should you have a disagreement with your child's teacher, what are some ways to reduce or avoid friction? #ldchat
  • CarrollSchool Jan 11 @ 12:21 PM EST
    A2: Being a good listener (both parties) and really hearing what the other says - and ask questions! #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:21 PM EST
    Asking questions & showing interest is important. Sets great example 4 your child too - shows u care! #ldchat
    In reply to @angela_lange25, @UnderstoodOrg
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:21 PM EST
    A3 Learn how to disagree without being disagreeable #ldchat
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:21 PM EST
    Such a good point! #ldchat
    In reply to @CarrollSchool
  • UnderstoodJennO Jan 11 @ 12:21 PM EST
    A3: Listen first, ask clarifying questions, and meet over the phone or in person. Email is a bad way to communicate disagreement. #ldchat
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:21 PM EST
    @CarrollSchool Such a good point! #ldchat
    In reply to @CarrollSchool
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:22 PM EST
    A3 Try to get a 3rd party to mediate #ldchat
  • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:22 PM EST
    A3. Disagreements are not always bad. Keeping an open dialogue about what may be in the child's best interest. #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:22 PM EST
    A3: Be wary of negative talk in front of kids or up a chain of command. Seek dialogue & direct problem solving whenever possible. #ldchat
  • sonlight00 Jan 11 @ 12:22 PM EST
    #Ldchat A3 sending a friendly e-mail, and not being confrontational, keep things positive
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:22 PM EST
    9 Tips for Improving Your Relationship With Your Child’s Teacher: https://t.co/u73CHCfZ0F #ldchat
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:22 PM EST
    Totally. Emails can convey the wrong emotion easily #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodJennO
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:23 PM EST
    Can you elaborate on this one? #ldchat
    In reply to @NonVerbalLD
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:23 PM EST
    Right! Disagreements handled well can strengthen the relationship #ldchat
    In reply to @nfpugliese1
  • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:23 PM EST
    A3. Sometimes a difference of opinion leads to different insight and a better solution. Keep it positive though. #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:23 PM EST
    Should I Go Straight to the Principal to Get Services? https://t.co/zNUE1Xb221 #ldchat
  • sonlight00 Jan 11 @ 12:23 PM EST
    #Ldchat A2 check in frequently and keep letting them know you want to be involved
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:23 PM EST
    OMG - always have someone proof your emails before sending!!! #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodGinny, @UnderstoodJennO
  • kristinmosborne Jan 11 @ 12:24 PM EST
    A3: Listening! I like repeating their statement to make sure I understand what someone might be trying to communicate. #ldchat
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:24 PM EST
    Such good advice. Parents need to be careful of thihs. #ldchat
    In reply to @DeborahLynam
  • CarrollSchool Jan 11 @ 12:24 PM EST
    A3: Try to work together towards an amenable solution but, if needed, bring in support as needed. #ldchat
  • edielovesmath Jan 11 @ 12:24 PM EST
    A3. Alleviate parent disagreements by focusing on the why and how. "What" is the quickest way to the blame game. @UnderstoodOrg #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:25 PM EST
    How to Talk With Your Child's Teacher About Too Much Homework? https://t.co/DxL5A2qq9P #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:25 PM EST
    Yes! That is a great way to clarify... good communication tip! #ldchat
    In reply to @kristinmosborne
  • sonlight00 Jan 11 @ 12:25 PM EST
    #Ldchat A1 it takes a good team to help your student, and you want your teacher on that team!
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:25 PM EST
    Q4. How can parents talk to teachers about their child's specific challenges? #ldchat
  • sensoryf Jan 11 @ 12:25 PM EST
    Q3: It's important to listen to and respect one another always. Providing resources & information that supports your thoughts is key #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:25 PM EST
    Sometimes a disagreement disappears when a 3rd party interprests or mediates #ldchat
    In reply to @DeborahLynam
  • lisaklipfel Jan 11 @ 12:26 PM EST
    A3 depends on disagreement. Misinformation? Or denying FAPE? One is ed/comm. other requires another personnel assist. #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:26 PM EST
    A4 That's one of the hardest, esp. for kids whose LD is not dyslexia or dyscalculia #ldchat
  • SumPepandWong Jan 11 @ 12:26 PM EST
    Oooo, this is good. Hadn't thought about it quite like this. #ldchat
    • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:23 PM EST
      A3. Sometimes a difference of opinion leads to different insight and a better solution. Keep it positive though. #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:26 PM EST
    Absolutely - Interest-based negotiating 101: Focus on why (interest) not what (position) #ldchat
    In reply to @edielovesmath, @UnderstoodOrg
  • nfpugliese1 Jan 11 @ 12:26 PM EST
    A4. Being honest about your concerns & showing willingness to be part of the solution is crucial to creating a partnership. #ldchat
  • lorri1956 Jan 11 @ 12:27 PM EST
    #ldchat a4 don't be afraid to speak up for.your child. Set an appointment to discuss and follow up appointments on progress
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:27 PM EST
    A4 It is particularly hard in mainstream schools where teacher may not have training in your kids problems #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:27 PM EST
    8 Tips for Talking to Your Child’s Teacher About #Dyslexia: https://t.co/kLWtinObjG #ldchat
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:27 PM EST
    A4. Asking first if the teacher would be interested in some resources... then provide if he/she is interested. #ldchat
  • CarrollSchool Jan 11 @ 12:27 PM EST
    A4: Start the conversation early in the relationship & establish an ongoing way to communicate struggles & successes. #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:27 PM EST
    A4: Share your parental perspective of strengths & weaknesses with a positive student profile. https://t.co/qF2mGc3LWa #ldchat
  • SumPepandWong Jan 11 @ 12:28 PM EST
    A4. Begin with "I notice" statements about the child. Ask if teacher notices the same. #ldchat
    • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:25 PM EST
      Q4. How can parents talk to teachers about their child's specific challenges? #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:28 PM EST
    7 Tips for Talking to Your Child's Teacher About #ADHD: https://t.co/108JYpaFFt #ldchat
  • UnderstoodJennO Jan 11 @ 12:28 PM EST
    A4: Sometimes the parent has way more insight into the disability-it's great to share w/ the teachers that knowledge. #ldchat
  • DeborahLynam Jan 11 @ 12:28 PM EST
    A4: Highlight important IEP components for easy access. Try sharing an IEP at a Glance template. https://t.co/WQdYsKYqq4 #ldchat
  • edielovesmath Jan 11 @ 12:28 PM EST
    A4. Parents should give long-term perspective of teens with ADHD. Ask questions, don't tell. @UnderstoodOrg #ldchat
    In reply to @UnderstoodOrg
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:28 PM EST
    7 Tips for Talking to Your Child's Teacher About Sensory Processing Issues: https://t.co/saP5h8abZC #ldchat
  • UnderstoodGinny Jan 11 @ 12:28 PM EST
    A4. May be a good idea to set up a meeting w/ teacher and case manager to discuss the disability #ldchat
  • UnderstoodOrg Jan 11 @ 12:29 PM EST
    Only a couple minutes left. Any final thoughts? #ldchat
  • NonVerbalLD Jan 11 @ 12:29 PM EST
    Final thought: I'd love more chats about the "other" LDs. #ldchat