Learning Disability Association

Are you or your family member dealing with a learning disability or neurological condition? The Learning Disability Association of the Mohawk Valley (LDA) can help you gain knowledge; develop skills and strategies for success in school, work, and your community; and advocate for services and accommodations that will allow you to thrive.

Founded in 1968, LDA joined forces with RCIL in 2000. With offices in Utica and Watertown, LDA serves a nine-county region including Oneida, Herkimer, Jefferson, St. Lawrence, Franklin, Essex, Clinton, Hamilton, and Lewis.

LDA offers an ever-growing range of services, including the following:

information and referral

educational advocacy

professional conferences

parent training/support groups

tutoring

adult basic education (ABE)

general equivalency diploma (GED)

screenings and assessments

 

 

Urban Safari and Adventure Challenge youth programs

What are learning disabilities?

Learning disabilities -- often termed "hidden" or "invisible" disabilities -- are actually a diverse group of neurobiological characteristics that are developmental in nature. Learning disabilities affect the way people store, process, or produce information. People with learning disabilities often need to develop creative approaches to their unique learning styles because their brains process words or information differently. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 9% of children 6-17 years of age are reported to have been diagnosed with learning disabilities.

A learning disability can impact various aspects of learning and behavior in different ways throughout an individual's lifespan. Recent research has shown that the presence of contributing factors such as lead paint and inadequate perinatal care may occur more commonly in lower-income neighborhoods, but there is frequently no apparent cause for learning disabilities. A learning disability is not a disease, so there is no "cure," but there are ways to compensate for the challenges it poses through proper identification and accommodation. LDA works with people of all ages to find the best ways to utilize and celebrate their unique learning styles and gifts.

For more information on LDA programs and services, please contact us.

      Information

Teacher of the Year Award 2008