Learning Disabilities and The National Center for
Learning Disabilities (NCLD)
by Shirley Cramer, Executive Director, NCLD, New York, New York
Learning disabilities is a term that refers to a group of disorders which are believed to be neurological in origin. They interfere with the ability to process, store, or produce information and can impair a child's ability to read, write, speak, or acquire social skills. Learning disabilities affect both children and adults and create a gap between a person's true capacity and day-to-day performance.
Learning disabilities affect an estimated one in ten children nationwide. This has been called the "hidden handicap," as too often the condition goes undetected and untreated. Left undetected and untreated, learning disabilities can cause children to lose their self-esteem (they are labeled "stupid" or "lazy"), which often leads to very serious problems, such as drug and alcohol abuse, illiteracy, juvenile delinquency, and school drop-out. With early intervention, children with learning disabilities can learn to accommodate for their differences and lead productive and successful lives.
The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) is a national, not-for-profit organization committed to improving the lives of children with learning disabilities.
Services of NCLD include raising public awareness and understanding, national information and referral, educational programs, and legislative advocacy.
NCLD assists families and professionals through seminars, workshops, and the replication of model educational programs. NCLD produces a variety of publications for parents and educators. NCLD's Information & Referral Service links parents, professionals, and others concerned with learning disabilities to needed services. NCLD's staff respond to questions by phone and mail, and send out packets of information on learning disabilities.
The sooner a child with learning disabilities is helped, the greater the chances for success.
For information, write or call:
National Center for Learning Disabilities
381 Park Avenue South
Suite 1420
New York, NY 10016
(212) 545-7510
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