A DRUG-FREE APPROACH TO LEARNING DIFFICULTIES

DORE - This programme claims to address the physiological causes of learning difficulties like dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADD, ADHD and Asperger’s Syndrome, using individually tailored, repetitive excercises with simple equipment like bean bags and wobble boards.

Excercises are designed to improve sensory responses and stimulate the cerebellum, the area of the brain that processes informaton and controls balance, coordination and movement, which studies show is underdeveloped in children with learning difficulties and associated behavioural problems.

There are various centres in various countries. Check the Dore website to see if you have one in your area.

It may very well be your answer to a drug-free approach.

Remember that it is not only children who suffer these difficulties!

They have free on-line tests which you can take to determine if you have the various symptoms of the above learning difficulties.

You have nothing to lose!

DORE ARE HAVING THEIR SECOND OPEN DAY ON MARCH 15 2008, 09.00 - 13.30 AT THEIR CENTRES IN JOHANNESBURG, CAPE TOWN AND DURBAN. CALL 086 100 3673 FOR INFO OR TO BOOK!

Often, a child's problems are only brought to attention when he enters the formal schooling years. It is important to pick up on these problems early so that they can be addressed. Although no one knows for sure what causes learning difficulties, most researchers are in agreement that they are caused by the differences in how a child's brain works and how information is processed.

The brain and the spinal cord which makes up the central nervous system is responsible for learning. Sensory stimuli is picked up by nerves all over the body and messages sent via the spinal cord to the brain to be interpreted. It appears that children with learning difficulties have a maturational lag in the development of their central nervous system.

Early intervention can greatly improve the chances for a child to succeed in school.

A child who lags behind can suffer feelings of "not being good enough" which can greatly damage his esteem. Sadly these children are labelled negatively by his teachers.

But remember this! Many children with learning difficulties grow up to be achievers and may become successful in their career choice, specifically if they have been given support along the way.

There are certainly cases that must be medically treated but it would be unfair to use this as a first option. Let your child be professionally assessed before resorting to medication.

Trust your instinct and seek advice as early as you can!