Frequently Asked Questions* What is Educational Therapy? Educational Therapy is a process that combines an understanding of how individuals learn, the ways in which feelings can impact learning and the knowledge of specialized teaching methods. Through skilled assessment, case management and alternative teaching methods, Educational Therapy empowers children with learning disabilities and other learning challenges to acquire skills and develop optimally. What is the difference between an educational therapist and a tutor? An Educational Therapist provides intensive intervention, formal assessment and case management for students with a wide range of learning disabilities and learning differences. A subject matter tutor provides assistance with homework and teaches children requiring instruction in a specific subject matter. A tutor’s background does not usually include training in exceptionalities, learning disabilities, specific syndromes and case management. Does my child need an educational therapist? If your child has never been identified by specialists or school personnel: • Your child may have experienced early ear infections, delays in learning to talk, difficulties maintaining concentration and memory issues. • Your child may resist attending school or participating in other childhood activities. • Your child may take an extreme amount of time and parent support to get homework tasks done. • You may see an on-going struggle with homework and school assignments. These difficulties may become intensified as academic subjects become more challenging. • Your child may become discouraged and withdrawn. If your child has been identified by a specialist or school personnel: • In order for your child to reach her/her full potential, additional educational intervention support may be required. • Your child may already have been identified as a struggling learner by school personnel such as a classroom teacher, the school psychologist, or the speech and language specialist. However, he or she may require additional individualized interventions beyond those now received. • Your child is receiving services from multiple specialists, and you need assistance in coordinating services. • You need assistance in interpreting reports and recommendations from various specialists who work with your child. *Frequently Asked Questions and Answers have been taken from the Association of Educational Therapist website. www.aetonline.org |