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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are learning disabilities?

    Learning disabilities (LDs) are a group of varying disorders that have a negative impact on learning. They may affect one’s ability to speak, listen, think, read, write, spell or compute. LDs affect one or more of the ways that a person takes in, stores, or uses information. LDs come in many forms and affect people with varying levels of severity. The most prevalent LD is in the area of reading, known as dyslexia.

  • What are common characteristics of a learning disability?

    Pre-school Years

    • Trouble nursing, sucking, digesting
    • Delays in sitting, standing, walking
    • Delayed language
    • Overly active; early walking, running
    • Lack of or excessive response to sound or other stimuli
    • Difficulty following directions or learning routines

    School Years

    • Difficulty with reading, writing, spelling or mathematics
    • Difficulty expressing ideas
    • Reads but does not comprehend
    • Poor social skills, few friends
    • Cannot foresee consequences
    • Left-right confusion
    • Impulsivity
    • Difficulty with abstract thinking
    • Poor gross or fine motor coordination
    • Reversals in numbers and letters
    • Difficulty following directions
    • Memory and attention problems
  • What are common types of learning disabilities?

    Dyslexia – A Reading Disability
    Difficulty with reading, writing, spelling, speaking.

    Dyscalculia – A Math Disability
    Difficulty with doing math problems, understanding time, using money.

    Dysgraphia – A Writing Disability
    Difficulty with handwriting, spelling, organizing ideas.

  • Can a learning disability be “outgrown”?

    LDs are a life-long condition – they do not go away – but can be coped with successfully by using areas of strength to compensate and accommodations such as technology.

  • What programs are available at the LDANR?

    The LDANR’s programs are designed to support children, youth and adults who are struggling with a learning disability; however, the individual does not need to be formally diagnosed with a learning disability to participate in these programs. The LDANR recognizes that a formal diagnosis is not something all individuals/families can have done and, therefore, we welcome children, youth and adults who are struggling in their academics due to an identified or non-identified learning disability. The LDANR offers a number of programs – click here for a list of current programs.

  • How do I apply for a program?

    If you feel that your child can benefit from one of our programs, please fill out an application form and submit supporting documents via email, fax, or in person. You may want to call and speak with a Program Coordinator prior to completing an application form. The Program Coordinator can provide you with useful information regarding programs and whether they would likely meet your child’s needs in regards to their learning disability.

    **Please note applicants will be screened for other exceptionalities (i.e. autism, down syndrome, FAS, developmental delays, etc.) as the LDANR’s mandate is to offer programs and services for those with learning disabilities. The LDANR’s programs are not designed to treat students with severe mental health or students with severe emotional and behavioural issues. B.E.S.T. and S.L.A.M. programs are not behavioural programs, but rather programs to support children with learning disabilities through LD awareness, self-advocacy, building self-esteem and developing social skills.
    All participants must have the ability to behave in a small group setting.

    For more information, please contact the LDANR office at (905) 641-1021 or email info@Ldaniagara.org

  • What supporting documents do I need for my child’s application?

    Following the online application form, you are required to submit supporting documents to complete your application. These supporting documents may include and are not limited to: the child’s most recent report card or progress report (*required), a copy of the child’s IEP (*required for our SOAR programs), and/or assessments and diagnoses. Only documents in English can be accepted.

  • What happens after I complete the application and submit all the required documents?

    A screening takes place once your complete application has been received. If your child has been accepted, you will be notified of details including the time, location, program fee, etc. a week or two prior to the start of the program.

  • What happens if cost is a barrier to my child accessing LDANR programs?

    The LDANR recognizes that some families in the Niagara Region cannot always afford LDANR programs. It is important to the LDANR that cost does not act as a barrier to families accessing LDANR services. Therefore, the LDANR offers the following options to families:

    1. Payment plans: The LDANR office staff will work with families to determine a payment plan that works with them. Please note that an initial down payment will be required.
    2. Financial Assistance: At times, the LDANR has access to funds to provide full or partial subsidy to families. If a family requires financial assistance, they will be asked to complete a subsidy application form. The LDANR will do our best to work closely with families on a case-by-case basis to alleviate any financial barriers to accessing our programs.
  • Does the LDANR accept placement students?

    Yes! The LDANR partners with local post-secondary institutions to provide hands-on, meaningful learning experiences for students. If you are hoping to complete a placement with the LDANR as a component of your studies, please complete a Placement Intake Form and an LDANR office staff will be in touch to determine if the placement would be a good fit.

    Prospective placement students will be interviewed, and will be required to provide the LDANR will proof of enrolment as well any required documents to be completed as part of the placement.

Our Mission

Our purpose is to provide resources and support to individuals who are affected by learning disabilities within the Niagara Region. We provide leadership in learning disabilities awareness, advocacy, research, education and services.

Registered Charity # 73291 9097 RR 0001

Get In Touch

Learning Disabilities Association of Niagara Region
The Branscombe Centre
1338 Fourth Avenue
Unit S215
St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada
L2S 0G1

info@LDANiagara.org
Phone: (905) 641-1021
Fax: (905) 641-2336
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