Day 81. Learning Difficulties And Disabilities:

81. Learning Difficulties And Disabilities:

Some teenagers have learning difficulties or disabilities and as they grow older they can become increasingly aware of them.

If someone has a learning difficulty they may not learn at the same rate as their friends of the same age.

When they were younger they may have been less aware of their differences but as they grow and mature some teens will start to compare themselves unfavourably with their friends and ask why they can't do something as well as them.

It may be that their friends are trusted to go to the shops on their own while they require supervision. If this is the case it is a good idea to be honest with your teen and explain to them in simple terms that they have a learning difficulty or disability which means that while they can do a lot for themselves independently they do need a bit more help than some of their friends.

If they have a particular condition it is good to let them know this and for them to be given the facts around their condition. There are many websites that can help you and your teen learn more about specific learning difficulties and disabilities.

If you are honest with your teenager they are likely to come to terms with their differences knowing that their learning difficulty does not mean that they should give up. They should be encouraged and supported to follow their dreams just as every other teen should be.

If your teen is unlikely to be able to live independently in future, you may be worried about what will happen to them when you get old. They may also be worrying about this so it is important that you talk about this so they don't worry alone.

Social Services can give you advice and support on accommodation and opportunities for people with learning difficulties and disabilities.