Supporting Students with Learning Disabilities

De-escalation strategies are vital in creating a safe, supportive, and productive learning environment where students feel valued and understood. When educators proactively use techniques like active listening, validating emotions, and offering choices, they help diffuse tension and prevent conflicts from escalating into disruptive or harmful situations. These approaches not only foster trust but also empower students to develop emotional regulation skills, which are essential for their long-term success. By implementing de-escalation strategies, teachers can shift interactions from reactive discipline to meaningful guidance, reinforcing a culture of respect and collaboration. For example, using a calm tone, maintaining non-threatening body language, and providing structured support can help students navigate challenges without feeling overwhelmed. When students experience patience and empathy from educators, they are more likely to engage positively, take ownership of their actions, and build resilience. Ultimately, de-escalation is not just about managing behavior it’s about cultivating an environment where every learner feels safe, heard, and capable of growth. When educators embrace these strategies, they transform classrooms into spaces of empowerment, fostering emotional intelligence and strengthening relationships that support lifelong learning.

One of the most challenging parts of working in education is managing relationships with parents. While most parents are supportive and engaged, there are times when communication becomes tense, emotionally charged, or even confrontational. Navigating these moments requires patience, compassion, and resilience. It's always much easier to have these conversations in person. Avoid email if possible, as tone and intent can often be misinterpreted. Face-to-face discussions allow for more empathy, real-time feedback, and the ability to address concerns directly. In person, you can use body language and tone to convey understanding, which helps build trust and reduce tension. If in-person isn’t possible, a phone or video call can be a good alternative, allowing for a more human connection that email simply can’t provide. So, how can educators handle difficult parent interactions effectively? ➡ Listen Actively – Sometimes, parents just want to be heard. Taking time to listen without interruption can diffuse frustration and shows you’re genuinely invested in their child’s well-being. ➡Stay Calm and Professional – Even when emotions are high, responding with calm professionalism helps maintain control of the conversation and keeps the focus on the student. ➡Seek Common Ground – Finding a point of agreement, however small, can open the door to productive problem-solving. ➡Set Boundaries – Maintaining clear and respectful boundaries ensures that communication remains productive. If things become too heated, it’s okay to suggest an end to the meeting and a follow-up conversation later. ➡Focus on the Solution – Rather than dwelling on the problem, guide the conversation toward actions that support the student’s progress and success. Difficult conversations aren’t easy, but they can also be opportunities to build stronger relationships and trust. How do you handle challenging parent interactions? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you're considering a career change away from frontline education, please so get in touch to discuss how we can support you. #Leadership #Growth #Management #Education

This week, I'll introduce my favorite books that can help you become wiser and more resilient in this increasingly chaotic world. First up is "Learning How To Learn" by Barbara Oakley, Terrence Sejnowski, and Alistair McConville. It was originally written for students, but I find it incredibly useful for adults too. The core message of the book is that anyone can become a more effective learner by understanding how the brain works and applying specific strategies. Some of its key ideas: 🔵 Your brain operates in two modes: focused (deep concentration) and diffuse (relaxed, creative thinking). Switching between them helps you understand and solve problems better. 🔵 Break complex topics into smaller "chunks." Master each chunk, then connect them to build a solid understanding. 🔵 Instead of rereading notes, test yourself. Active recall strengthens memory more effectively than passive review. 🔵 Review material over spaced intervals. This spaced repetition helps transfer knowledge to long-term memory. 🔵 Use the Pomodoro Technique: work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. This keeps your mind fresh and focused. 🔵 Visualize concepts using images or metaphors. This makes abstract ideas easier to grasp and remember. 🔵 Tackle the hardest problems first when you're most alert. If you get stuck, switch tasks to let your subconscious work on the problem. 🔵 Sleep is crucial. It consolidates memories and clears out brain waste, enhancing your ability to learn. 🔵 Be aware of "illusions of competence." Just because something feels familiar doesn't mean you've mastered it. 🔵 Mix different types of problems during practice (interleaving). This improves adaptability and problem-solving skills.

Building a strong connection with your parents isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential for your well-being and theirs. Here’s how to foster meaningful conversations: 1. Schedule Regular Time: Set aside dedicated moments each week to talk or visit. Consistency builds closeness. 2. Active Listening: Show genuine interest in their stories and experiences. Listen without distractions to understand deeply. 3. Share Your Life: Open up about your successes, challenges, and dreams. Let them be a part of your journey. 4. Express #Gratitude: Acknowledge their support and sacrifices. A simple "thank you" goes a long way. 5. Quality Time Together: Engage in activities they enjoy. Whether it's a walk, cooking together, or watching a movie, cherish these moments. 6. Be Patient and Compassionate: Understand their perspectives and be patient with differences. Respect their opinions. 7. Celebrate Milestones: Mark important occasions together. Celebrating achievements strengthens #bonds. Connecting with your parents not only enriches your life but also enhances theirs. Make the effort to nurture this precious relationship—it’s a gift that keeps giving, fostering #happiness and resilience in both your lives.

The recent decision by Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur to induct 10 counsellors after a series of tragic student suicides is a stark reminder: "LEARNER WELL-BEING CANNOT BE AN AFTERTHOUGHT" This follows their SETU initiative (Support, Empathy, Transformation, and Upliftment) and the appointment of the first Dean of Student Well-Being- steps intended to ensure students don’t just cope, but feel genuinely supported. ✅ Why this matters High academic stress and career pressure remain very real. Proactive, visible counselling makes a difference, especially when counsellors meet students where they are in hostels, clubs, and common spaces, helping to reduce stigma and increase access. As someone working on national and international standards for educational institutions, I see this as a systemic challenge. Academic pressure, inadequate mental-health support, and the absence of clear operational benchmarks leave many campuses reactive rather than preventive. At the Bureau of Indian Standards, our Subcommittee on Campus Facilities and Accommodation Services (SSD 04:03) is finalizing the National Standard for Campus Facilities and Accommodation Services—Requirements. Thanks to dedicated team members- Sudhirkumar V Barai Sandeep Kanojia Aditya Bhatt Tarush Chandra Bhavna Tripathi Kajal Marwaha and the others- we are close to publication. The draft sets measurable requirements for: Safe, inclusive residential and learning spaces Health & wellness centres with mental-health and counselling services Mechanisms for continuous feedback and improvement, and more Standards can’t replace empathy- but they establish non-negotiable accountability and a measurable baseline that every campus, public or private, large or small, must meet. It’s time to move beyond ad-hoc measures. Every campus must be designed to nurture both intellectual growth and emotional resilience. True success is not only in academic achievement, but in how well students are supported along the way. We build that, and we build lasting resilience. https://lnkd.in/g-gh5dUN

Navigating the Maze: Practical Tips for Managing ADHD in Kids and Teens Ever feel like you're chasing butterflies with your kids? You're not alone! After some questions from parents in my DMs, I researched more about ADHD in kids and teens, and here's what I found... Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be a complex and challenging condition for both kids and their families. While it presents itself differently in each individual, common struggles often arise around organization, homework, and social interactions. But fear not. Together, we can equip ourselves with the tools and resources to navigate this maze and foster positive growth. Harnessing the whirlwind: 1. Structure is key: Implement routines and schedules, utilizing visual aids like charts and planners. Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps. 2. Declutter the environment: Minimize distractions in workspaces and bedrooms. Clear surfaces and designate storage areas for belongings. 3. Harness technology: Explore organizational apps, timers, and reminder tools to keep track of tasks and deadlines. Conquering the Homework Hurdle: 1. Dedicated study space: Create a quiet, well-lit area free from distractions for homework sessions. 2. Chunk it up: Break down large assignments into smaller, achievable parts, taking short breaks between each. 3. Engage different learning styles: Utilize visual aids, audio recordings, or kinesthetic activities to cater to individual learning preferences. 4. Seek support: Don't hesitate to reach out to teachers or tutors for extra help when needed. Building Bridges in the Social Sphere: 1. Empathy is essential: Help your child understand how their behavior might affect others and encourage active listening. 2. Role-playing social scenarios: Practice appropriate communication and conflict resolution skills in a safe and supportive environment. 3. Foster social opportunities: Encourage participation in activities and clubs where your child can connect with others who share similar interests. Charting a Course with Resources and Support: 1. Connect with professionals: Consult with pediatricians, psychologists, or therapists who specialize in ADHD management. 2. Embrace the ADHD community: Join support groups or online forums to connect with families facing similar challenges, sharing experiences and advice. 3. Utilize online resources: Websites like CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD) and ADDitude Magazine offer valuable information, tips, and resources. Remember, navigating ADHD is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate small victories, offer encouragement and use positive reinforcements, look at regular exercise, healthy sleep habits, and most importantly, work together as a team. With patience, understanding, and the right tools, you can not just survive, but thrive with ADHD. Thoughts? LinkedIn News, LinkedIn News India, LinkedIn News Asia #ADHD #ADHDawareness #ADHDlife #ADHDkids #ADHDparenting #neurodiversity

🧠 **How to Remember Everything: According to Science** 🧠 Memory is a powerful tool, but we often struggle with retaining information. Science offers effective strategies to boost your memory and recall. Here’s how you can remember everything: 1️⃣ **Spaced Repetition** - **What It Is:** Revisit information at increasing intervals over time. - **Why It Works:** This technique strengthens neural connections, making it easier to recall information when needed. 2️⃣ **Active Recall** - **What It Is:** Test yourself on the material you’re trying to learn, rather than just re-reading it. - **Why It Works:** Actively retrieving information from memory reinforces it, making it more likely to stick. 3️⃣ **Mnemonic Devices** - **What It Is:** Use patterns, acronyms, or visual imagery to link new information to existing knowledge. - **Why It Works:** These mental shortcuts help you organize and recall complex information more easily. 4️⃣ **Visualization Techniques** - **What It Is:** Create vivid mental images associated with the information you want to remember. - **Why It Works:** Visualization taps into your brain’s visual memory, making abstract information more concrete and memorable. 5️⃣ **Chunking** - **What It Is:** Break down large amounts of information into smaller, manageable chunks. - **Why It Works:** The brain handles smaller units of information better, which improves retention. 6️⃣ **Sleep** - **What It Is:** Ensure you’re getting enough restful sleep. - **Why It Works:** Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation, turning short-term memories into long-term ones. 7️⃣ **Healthy Lifestyle** - **What It Is:** Maintain a balanced diet, regular exercise, and manage stress. - **Why It Works:** A healthy lifestyle supports brain function, improving your ability to learn and remember. 8️⃣ **Teach What You Learn** - **What It Is:** Explain new concepts to someone else. - **Why It Works:** Teaching forces you to organize and clarify your understanding, reinforcing your memory. 9️⃣ **Use Multiple Senses** - **What It Is:** Engage different senses (sight, sound, touch) while learning. - **Why It Works:** Multisensory learning creates more associations in your brain, aiding recall. 🔟 **Mindfulness and Meditation** - **What It Is:** Practice mindfulness to stay present and focused. - **Why It Works:** Meditation enhances your attention and memory by reducing cognitive distractions. Incorporating these science-backed strategies into your daily routine can significantly improve your memory. What techniques do you use to remember important information? #Memory #Learning #PersonalDevelopment #Productivity #BrainHealth #ScienceBacked !

12 tips to better retain what you learn. Use these to improve your memory: Whether you're: ↳Studying for tests ↳Trying to memorize a work presentation ↳Learning a new language ↳Or just wanting to remember someone's name or your grocery list It pays to have a great memory. Often, however, people see their memory as fixed. "I'm so forgetful!" they'll say. Or, "I'm bad with names." But the reality is: You can improve your memory with practice. Use these tactics to strengthen yours. 1) Teach It ↳To remember, you must first understand - and to truly understand, try explaining ↳Ex: Learning physics? Describe Newton's Laws in simple terms - if you can't, you've found a gap 2) Space Repetition ↳Review at increasing intervals, adding more space as you improve ↳Ex: Learning Spanish? Review the new words you learn after 1 day, then 3 days, then a week 3) Create Mnemonics ↳Turn less ordinary or more complex info into shortcuts - odder is often better ↳Ex: Memorize the planets with "My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Nachos" 4) Make It Ordinary ↳Connecting new ideas with ones you're already familiar with helps retention ↳Ex: Learning supply and demand? Think of Uber's surge pricing - when demand is up, cost goes up 5) Write It Down ↳Writing things down (by hand) boosts our ability to remember them ↳Ex: Forget names easily? Write them down three times after meeting someone 6) Say It Out Loud ↳Speaking information also reinforces recall ↳Ex: Using names again - Say, "Nice to meet you, Sarah!" to remember her name 7) Chunk Information ↳Break long info into smaller, digestible parts that are self-contained ↳Ex: Want to memorize a speech? Divide it into short, distinct sections 8) Use Memory Palace ↳Tie information to images for recall, placing things in familiar locations ↳Ex: Remembering a grocery list? Picture milk at your front door, eggs on the couch, and bread on the TV 9) Engage Senses ↳You know how sounds or smells sometimes trigger long-ago memories? Use it ↳Ex: Learning a language? Read, write, listen, and speak it in one session 10) Use Active Recall ↳Test yourself - or have someone else test you - instead of just re-reading ↳Ex: Studying from a book? Cover key parts and recall them before checking to see if you were right 11) Don't Multitask ↳Our inability to remember is often tied to a lack of real focus ↳Ex: Studying? Put your phone in another room to avoid distractions and let your brain prioritize one task 12) Sleep Well ↳Memory consolidates during sleep, and good rest improves our retention ability ↳Ex: Study briefly before bed to let your brain reinforce it overnight Have you used any of these before? --- ♻️ Repost to help others improve their ability to retain information. And follow me George Stern for more content on growth.

✨ Early Identification is the Key to Inclusive Success ✨ As educators and leaders in inclusion, one of our greatest responsibilities is ensuring that every learner receives the right support at the right time. I’m sharing Initial Screening Checklists for Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia—practical tools designed to guide observations and support early identification of learning differences. 📝 These checklists help teachers, parents, and inclusion teams to: • Recognize early signs of literacy, numeracy, or writing challenges • Document consistent patterns that may need further evaluation • Guide targeted interventions aligned with school policies and curriculum standards ⚠️ It’s important to note: these are preliminary tools, not diagnostic assessments. Their purpose is to inform the next steps—whether that’s providing classroom accommodations, adjusting teaching strategies, or referring for professional evaluation. #Inclusion #SEND #Dyslexia #Dyscalculia #Dysgraphia #InclusiveEducation #Leadership