Parents of children with learning disorders will be able to learn some strategies to intervene, motivate, and change behaviors at a workshop series starting March 3.
National research indicates almost one in five Canadians, or 60,000 people in Central Alberta, have a learning disorder.
Behavioural specialist Kier Kutney has worked in assessment and treatment capacities for more than 20 years in programs supported by mental health, justice, education and child welfare agencies.
Kutney will conduct three, three-hour workshops on behalf of the Learning Disabilities Association of Alberta, Red Deer Chapter (LDAA-RD). The first workshop is titled Understanding Disorders.
“Parents will learn how these disorders affect behaviour and effective interventions that promote skill development,” said Kutney.
The second workshop is titled Behavioural Management and Strategies where parents learn about behaviour management in greater depth including motivation, effective consequences and what works and doesn’t work.
The third workshop, Developing Relationships, reveals how parents can have a healthy relationship with their child and what kinds of activities can promote instead of sabotage the relationship.
Workshops are sponsored by the Lifelong Learning Council of Red Deer. Cost is $50 per member, per workshop. Rates for couples and non-members are available.
The most common learning disorders are various forms of dyslexia, as well as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). More severe developmental disorders include autism and fetal alcohol syndrome.
For more information, contact LDAA-RD at 403-340-3885.
-Weber
