Wendel Abel
Now that the summer holidays are almost over, we are focused on getting the children organised for school in September.
Some parents and teachers may be distressed about a child who is not learning or performing at his or her grade level. The child may have recently started to show a decline in his or her performance.
Many factors may prevent children from learning and it is important that we understand these factors. Too often we respond harshly to children who are having problems; we may abuse them emotionally, verbally and even physically by beating them. Here are the factors:
Food and nutrition
Many children do not start their days with a proper breakfast. The wrong choice of food may often affect a child's behaviour or learning. Food and nutrition are critical to the proper functioning of the brain and, therefore, a child's ability to learn. We should start our children's day with a balanced meal.
Learning disorders
Many children have
learning disorders which include
reading disorders, disorders that affect written expression and mathematics disorders. In reading disorders, we may
find that they have difficulty identifying words, a tendency
to misread information, poor reading comprehension and
poor spelling. Children with mathematics disorder show
poor ability to apply math skills.
Children who are hyperactive
Hyperactive children have problems with attention, organisation and focusing and this may affect their ability to learn and grasp information.
Learning problems, medical conditions
Many learning problems may be due to medical conditions. Lead poisoning is one condition that may affect children's ability to learn. Lead poisoning is common in communities in Jamaica where backyard battery making is done. Drugs such as ganja may affect a child's short-term memory. Brain damage may arise from problems in pregnancy or difficulties during labour. Children of mothers who use alcohol may develop brain damage which affects their
ability to learn in later life.
Associated problems
Many children who have difficulties learning may become demoralised and develop poor self-esteem.
Tips to deal with children with learning problems
Early detection is important: Parents and teachers should be vigilant in detecting learning problems early.
Early referral is key: If a child is believed to be a 'slow' learner then he or she should be referred to a professional who is trained to identify such problems.
Do not abuse your children: Parents should recognise that they may not be adequately trained to teach their children. Sometimes, in trying to help the slow learner, parents also become frustrated and abusive. If your child is having difficulty learning, seek professional help early and learn techniques that will help your child.
Speak to the child's teacher: Parents should consult with teachers if their children are not learning. Teachers will advise the parents of the steps to be taken to address the problem.
Special education: Many children may need to attend
a special education facility or school to address their learning problems. A number of schools offer these services. For example, a special programme for children at the secondary level, was recently started at the Undergraduate School in Kingston, telephone number 925-1421 or 941-2712.
Dr. Wendel Abel is a consultant psychiatrist and senior lecturer, University
of the West Indies; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.
