LEARNING MY WAY: I'm a Winner!

A learning disabled boy recounts events leading to receiving special help (in the context of a regular classroom) in fourth grade. Dan describes his hyperactivity, failure to learn, lack of physical coordination, struggles with unsympathetic adults, and the resulting anxiety and conflicts at home and school. Belatedly, his problem is diagnosed, and his school provides an I.E.P. (Independent Educational Plan) and daily help in a resource room. All Dan's problems are not solved--the other kids still tease him, his learning rate is slow--but he has gained a sense of accomplishment, understanding of his problem, and a better self-image. By using a fictional narrative and focusing on one individual, the authors limit discussion to one set of symptoms; although accurate, this doesn't give a sense of the variety of problems a learning disabled person may have. Moreover, it does not convey the high intelligence such people may have, or give a feel for the kind of remedial help they need or their prospects for the future. Adequate as far as it goes, but it doesn't go far enough. Glossary, good list of activities to reinforce learning, and a list of organizations.