Learning Disabilities
Learning disabilities are neurological disorders affecting how individuals process information. Dyslexia impacts reading, spelling, and language comprehension. Dyscalculia affects understanding numbers, math concepts, and problem-solving. Dysgraphia impairs writing skills, including handwriting, spelling, and organizing thoughts on paper. Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) makes understanding spoken language difficult despite normal hearing. Nonverbal Learning Disorder (NLD) affects spatial and social skills, making it hard to interpret nonverbal cues.
Maine Resources
Learning Disabilities Association of Maine - The Learning Disabilities Association of Maine (LDA of Maine) supports individuals with learning disabilities, their families, and educators through advocacy, education, and resource sharing. They provide guidance on learning disability types, related disorders, and best practices for supporting affected individuals. LDA of Maine also promotes legislative advocacy and community engagement, working to enhance understanding and improve access to educational and supportive services.
Maine Access to Inclusive Education Resources - The Maine Autism Institute for Education and Research (MAIER) focuses on advancing education, research, and services for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. It collaborates with schools, families, and community organizations to provide training, professional development, and evidence-based resources. MAIER’s initiatives include family support programs, research projects, and advocacy for inclusive practices.
MaineHealth - Learning Disabilities - MaineHealth provides specialized pediatric care for children with learning disabilities, focusing on comprehensive assessments, personalized treatment plans, and family support services. Their multidisciplinary approach includes speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, and educational consultations. The goal is to improve learning, communication, and daily functioning through evidence-based practices.
Scarborough Neurodevelopment Center - The Scarborough NeuroDevelopment Center in Maine provides specialized speech and occupational therapy services for individuals with various neurological and developmental conditions, including Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, and learning disabilities. Their team uses evidence-based practices and advanced therapeutic techniques to support clients’ communication, cognitive, and sensory development. Services include personalized treatment plans, speech-language therapy, and neurodevelopmental rehabilitation.
Regional Resources
New England Learning and Diagnostic Center (NELDC) - Located in Boston, MA, NEDLC provides evaluations for learning disabilities, educational advocacy, and assistance with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 accommodations.
New England AHEAD - A regional professional organization comprising disability services professionals from higher education institutions across New England, dedicated to promoting equity for students with disabilities in higher education.
National Resources
Northern New England Alliance of the International Dyslexia Association (NHIDA) - Supports individuals with dyslexia through advocacy, education, and outreach. They offer training programs, community events, and resources to raise awareness about dyslexia and evidence-based literacy instruction. Their mission includes promoting literacy through research-backed teaching methods and fostering an inclusive learning environment.
Learning Ally - Supports students with learning differences such as dyslexia through accessible educational solutions. They provide audiobooks, literacy tools, and teacher resources to enhance reading and comprehension skills. Their platform includes a vast library of human-narrated audiobooks and personalized learning features. Learning Ally collaborates with schools, educators, and families to improve academic outcomes and foster lifelong learning.
National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) - Empowers individuals with learning and attention issues by providing advocacy, research-based resources, and policy recommendations. They focus on supporting students, parents, and educators through educational initiatives, public awareness campaigns, and leadership development programs. NCLD also works to advance policies promoting equal opportunities and inclusive education. For comprehensive information and support tools, visit their website.
National Institute of Child Health & Development (NICHD) - Provides essential information about various types of learning disabilities, including dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia. It covers causes, risk factors, signs, and symptoms, along with diagnosis and treatment options. The page emphasizes early identification, personalized education plans, and support services as crucial elements for managing learning disabilities. It also includes links to research and additional educational resources.
National Joint Committee on Learning Disabilities (NJCLD) -Focused on improving education, services, and advocacy for individuals with learning disabilities. It promotes interdisciplinary research, policy development, and professional standards while fostering awareness and understanding of learning disabilities. The NJCLD provides resources, position papers, and recommendations to enhance education and support systems.
OpenDyslexic - OpenDyslexic is a free, open-source font designed to improve readability for individuals with dyslexia. It features unique letter shapes to reduce letter flipping and mirroring, enhancing text clarity. The font is available for personal and commercial use and can be integrated into various platforms, including web browsers, apps, and e-readers.