ALTERNATIVE LEARNING PATHWAYS

Learning Support for Neurodivergent Children, Teens and Adults in Ireland

Bright, capable learners of all ages can struggle with acquiring skills, even when they exert every effort. These challenges can be confusing and frustrating for learners themselves, as well as for parents supporting a child in this situation. Some learners survive and even seem to thrive in the academic environment only for their world to fall apart when they want to flourish as an adult in the work/social environment. 

I provide personalised, strengths-based, practical strategies to support literacy, numeracy and executive function in neurodivergent learners. With the right support, learners of all ages can develop confidence, independence and success in learning and in life.

 

Does this sound familiar?

  • Bright child struggling with reading, spelling or maths
  • Homework taking much longer than expected
  • Difficulty remembering spellings or maths tables
  • Avoidance or frustration around homework
  • Trouble concentrating despite strong intelligence
  • Unable establish or maintain friendships
  • School avoidance
  • Meltdowns/tantrums
  • Unhappiness/anxiety

I take a skills based approach to learning

Learning difficulties are not fixed. Every skill from social skills like conversation, empathy, interest and connection, to academic ones such as - reading, writing, spelling, listening and focus - is made up of smaller component skills. By identifying the approach required  and strengthening these component skills, learners experience noticeable improvements in both social confidence and academic ability.

 Understanding the whole learning picture

I assess for the following:

  • Auditory processing and listening skills
  • Focus and attention
  • Visual co-ordination affecting reading accuracy
  • Emotional responses to learning such as anxiety or avoidance
  • Awareness of a difficulty
  • Willingness to address a difficulty
  • Underdeveloped social filters

 Programmes that support learning and confidence

1. Dyslexia+, including Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, ADD and ADHD  Practical programmes for reading, writing, maths and attention difficulties

2. Concepts for life Programme  focusing on executive functioning skills for children, teens and adults

3.  Autism Programme  Gentle practical programmes that support autistic learners struggling to integrate with the neurotypical world 

 Supporting parents through the process

  • Clear guidance and reassurance at each stage
  • Practical activities to support learning at home
  • Follow-up guidance and support

 First conversation

Many parents begin by simply talking through their concerns about their child's learning. There is no obligation - just an opportunity to ask questions and explore possible next steps.