Goals are important in most areas of life and the LDHope Learning therapy program is no exception. Throughout the program it is important for the student and parents to keep their goals in mind.
Students are often excited and hopeful when they begin the LDHope therapy. Occasionally, as the newness wears off there is a danger of the program becoming routine. To help keep motivation and enthusiasm high it is important to develop goals and record positive changes as they occur.
Step 1 – Developing Goals
Sit down with your child and find out what they want from the program, i.e. to read easier, remember my spelling words, be able to follow instructions, etc. After discussing their goals write them down. Be creative, design a poster with their goals in the center and post it where they will see it everyday (the refrigerator or by their computer). This will daily remind them of their goals and what they are working toward.
Step 2 – Success Stories
Record positive changes that you see. Keep a tablet handy so that when you see positive events you can write them down. A success can either be academic or related to daily activities. A change can be anything from eye contact when spoken to, to a 100% on a spelling test.
I received a phone call from a parent a couple of weeks ago who told me that her daughter made a pitcher of lemonade by herself. You may say, “Big Deal”. But it was a big deal for this girl. Before starting her LDHope therapy she would ask her mother how to do everything step by step. So, when she took the initiative to take a tin of lemonade from the cabinet, read the directions on her own, and make a pitcher of juice, that was progress!
By keeping a journal you will be able to look back at all of the progress seen – no matter how big or little the progress – it is a step closer to your goals!
Instead of: “Why can’t you…” “I hate it when…” “Do it this way.”
Try Saying: “What if we…” “It might be better if…” “Consider doing…”
Amy is a Christian mother of three amazing adults, a small business owner, and the director of student services for Essential Learning Institute. Her passion is helping children who are struggling to learn, find and reach their potential. Her daily motto is, “Find the joy in your moments”
