Discovering that your child has additional learning needs can be a challenging journey, marked by observations, assessments, and a range of emotions. The path evolves as parents grapple with the diagnosis, often prompted by concerns raised by teachers or professionals. As you embark on this journey, pondering whether and when to share this information with your child becomes a pivotal decision.

Understanding the nuances of your child's condition, strengths, and challenges is the foundation for informed decision-making. It's crucial to recognize the uniqueness of each child and how their strengths and needs evolve over time and in various contexts. Assessment reports, while medically focused, might lack guidance for parents. Navigating online resources can be overwhelming, with contradictory or irrelevant information. Seeking reliable sources tailored to your context is key.

For children with physical or sensory needs, awareness often begins at a young age, involving frequent appointments with physicians and therapists. In contrast, hidden needs like dyslexia, autism, or ADHD may only surface in later years, causing bewilderment and frustration for the child, usually around kindergarten or primary school.

Neurodivergent individuals frequently recount negative school experiences, often feeling broken or mystified by their challenges. The contrast between their struggles and peers' accomplishments can lead to stress, anxiety, and a diminished self-image. Understanding these challenges is vital for parents navigating their child's learning needs.

Revealing a diagnosis to a child can be a relief, shifting their perspective from feeling inadequate to understanding their unique wiring. There's no one-size-fits-all answer to when this revelation should occur; it depends on the child's age and the family dynamics. It's not a single conversation but an ongoing, gradual dialogue woven throughout their life, emphasizing that their identity isn't something they'll outgrow, but an integral part of who they are.

Choosing the right language is crucial – tailoring explanations to the child's age and maturity level. Emphasizing the positives, highlighting their strengths, and addressing the supportive network around them foster a healthy understanding of their condition. It's essential to reassure them about privacy and empower them to decide when and with whom to share this information.

When ready to disclose the diagnosis, involving the school is paramount. Collaborating with teachers, school counselors, and inclusion teams ensures a supportive environment. Together, you can champion the child's uniqueness, fostering an atmosphere where they feel valued for who they are.

Additional sources of support and information:

The Butterfly: An Abu Dhabi-based support organization for families dealing with additional learning needs.

Thinking Differently by David Flink: This book offers insights for parents on understanding and accepting learning disabilities in their children, providing tips and strategies for effective advocacy.