ADD/ADHD and LD (Learning Disabilites) Glossary
There are special-ed acronyms, abbreviations, and terms that every parent with an ADD/LD child Know. You can penetrate this jargon with the help of this glossary.
Techniques and material that help AD/HD or LD students learn or perform schoolwork more effectively. Accommodations include extra time on tests, a lighter homework load, and permission to tape-record assignments.
Equipment or software that helps children compensate for learning impairments. Examples include electronic spell-checkers and audio books.
A neurobiological disorder that causes problems with attention span, impulse control, and activity level.
A set of strategies developed by school personnel to help a child behave in a way that is appropriate to the classroom and allows him to learn.
A physician who specializes in childhood behavioral problems, such as AD/HD and aggressive behavior, as well as difficulties at school.
A publication of the American Psychiatric Association that is used to diagnose psychiatric disorders, including AD/HD.
A professional who works with families to secure appropriate educational placement or services for children with AD/HD or LD.
A psychologist who specializes in learning and in the behavioral, social and emotional problems that interfere with school performance.
Under IDEA (see below) public schools are required to provide disabled students with appropriate educational services at no cost to the parents.
A school-based evaluation of a student’s learning difficulties using standardized tests and other tools. A team of school professionals uses the assessment to determine a child’s eligibility for special education and related services.
An evaluation conducted by a qualified professional who is unaffiliated with a public school district. Schools are required to consider the findings or recommendations of an IEE.
The Federal law that guarantees s special education and related services to students with disabilities. AD/HD is not listed among IDEA’s disability categories, but children with AD/HD often qualify under a category called “Other Health Impairments.”
The formal, written plan that guides the delivery of special-education services to a child who qualifies for such assistance under IDEA.
A neurobiological disorder that impairs a person’s ability to read, write, or do math by affecting the way he receives, process, or expresses information.
Under IDEA, school districts must provide special-ed services in a general education setting, rather than is separate classes or schools, whenever possible. A regular classroom is the least restrictive environment for students with disabilities.
An adjustment in the curriculum that creates a different standard for students with disabilities, as compared to others in the class.
A group of people who work together to develop and review a child’s IEP. The team might include the child’s classroom and special-education teachers, school administrator, school psychologist, therapist, educational advocate, and parents.
A psychologist who specializes in the relationship between brain function and behavior.
The Federal Law that grants children with disabilities the right to an appropriate public school education. Children with AD/HD or LD who are ineligible for special-education services under IDEA may qualify for accommodations and services under Section 504. The written plan outlining these services is called a 504 PLAN.
Specially designed instruction for children whose educational needs can’t be met in a regular instructional program.
