It is gravely important that parents and professionals come to understand the significant impact that the child with learning problems has upon a family. Although these children contribute their special gifts to family life, they can also complicate and compromise the day ­ to ­day functioning of the household.

This seminar is designed to explain the various reactions of family members to the LD child and offer specific suggestions to insure the successful integration of the child into the family.

The seminar is useful for parents and relatives of the special needs child. but may be particularly helpful for the professionals who provide services for these families.

Objectives:

• The learner will understand the Westhead/Smith Theory regarding the stages of parental acceptance of a diagnosed learning disability.
• The learner will understand the impact of a special need child and sibling relationships.
• The learner will understand the impact of a special needs child upon grandparents and other members of the extended family.
• The learner will master specific strategies to improve and foster family relationships.