Mount Pleasant Magazine Sept/Oct 2019

34 www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.BestOfMP.com | www.ReadMPM.com feature child’s learning needs. Our center has a parent mentor who serves in this capacity for families. Also, find activities or places where your child can be successful and celebrate in those. Whether it be sports or the creative arts — everyone needs an outlet where they feel successful and can play on their strengths.” Ballenger also said that schools can make adjustments for a more supportive learning environment, like extended test times, small group testing or even oral administration of a test. “It is important to know as much as you can about your child’s academic needs so that you can partner with their teachers to ensure a successful school year.” Yates said she feels lucky that she was able to teach herself tips and tricks to get through school since she wasn’t diagnosed until the age of 26. “Use the resources that are out there now because there are so many great ones,” she said. “Don’t wait to get an evaluation if you suspect a learning disability. Having a diagnosis makes a big difference.” Lindsey Ballenger and her partner, Renee McCaslin, founded one of those evidence- based strategies right here in the Lowcountry, The Orton-Gillingham Center of Charleston, a nonprofit organization that uses the Orton- Gillingham approach to teach individuals with difficulty in reading, spelling and writing. This approach is particularly helpful for dyslexic learners. Ballenger concurs with Dr. LaRosa that early intervention makes all the difference. “When you can read well, your self confidence will improve,” she empathized. Ballenger and McCaslin started the organization after their own children were diagnosed with dyslexia, and they experienced firsthand the need for more support and services in the area. When Ballenger’s youngest began showing the same patterns as her sibling, she began this approach on her at just 4 1/2. She said that parents are their children’s best advocates. “Connect with someone that can help you navigate your Photo courtesy of Genie Grace Buchanan. Genie Grace Buchanan. GET YOUR MP SWAG HERE Show your love for our town visit www.ILoveMountPleasant.com/Shop