The Mislabeled Child

When children had trouble learning in school 20 years ago, they were labeled as lazy, careless, or slow. Today children with learning difficulties are often labeled ADHD, Dyslexic, or behaviorally challenged without diagnosis. Dr. Brock Eide and Dr. Fernette Eide, the authors of The Mislabeled Child, look beyond behavior to find the true sources and solutions for children's learning challenges. The problems are presented as a spectrum rather than isolated, individual learning difficulties.

What I like about this book is its potential for helping parents not only figure out what the learning difficulties their children face might be, but what they can do to help. All of these tips are good, sound learning strategies, so anything that is suggested is an activity that will enhance your child's learning, even if the problem turns out to be slightly different than you perceive. The tips here will help any child who is experiencing even limited learning difficulties.

For example children with attention problems often fail to turn in homework. This is a red flag that the child needs help. At home, parents can look over the assignment with the child and help him organize it to get started. For math this might be as simple as highlighting the plus and minus signs. For written work other "opening moves" are suggested.

The scope here is large and includes information on ADHD, Dyslexia, auditory/sensory processing problems, memory difficulties, giftedness, and concerns with handwriting. This is a great source for parents who are struggling with a child's learning issues. -Barb L.