Learning Disability Week 2024
17th- 23rd June 2024 is Learning Disability Week.
This year, we are exploring how the Learn and Thrive resources can help a wide range of people with learning disabilities and SEND.
Keep reading to learn more about the support we can provide for Autism/ASD, Global Developmental Delay, and more.
Please note: this list is not exhaustive, our resources can support a wide range of children and young people. If you have further questions on this, do get in touch with us and we can support you further in understanding how our resources may support your learner’s requirements.
Down’s syndrome
Individuals with Down’s syndrome are born with an additional copy of chromosome 21.
✔ Visual learning and labelling - using Widgit symbols
✔ Processing time built into each video
✔ Speech & language development
✔ Bold & clear resources - to keep attention and be easy to see
Autism / ASD / Asperger’s
Autistic people may have communication and social issues, sensory differences, and more. Autism, ASD, and Asperger’s are all neurodivergences.
✔ Structured lessons, consistently using the same structure within each series
✔ Modelling positive behaviour to understand the implications
✔ Clarity and literal language to avoid ambiguity
✔ Visual learning and labelling
Global Developmental Delay
This term is used when a child takes longer to reach certain milestones than their peers - this can be used alongside other diagnoses, and is broad ranging.
✔ Speech and language development, including using Makaton in Teach Me Too to support this
✔ Visual learning
✔ Interactive activities
✔ Modelling behaviours to reinforce positive interaction and behaviour
Fragile X Syndrome
A genetic condition, primarily related to the X (male) chromosome, causing developmental issues, e.g. intellectual disability and cognitive impairment.
✔ Labelling and colour coding
✔ Routine and structured teaching
✔ Visual learning
✔ Processing time built into videos
Williams Syndrome
A rare genetic condition which may cause learning difficulties, through delayed childhood development. Individuals also have distinctive facial characteristics, may develop physical and/or mental health issues, and are often talkative and excessively friendly.
✔ Verbal teaching - good for auditory memory
✔ Teaching on socially acceptable behaviours
✔ Use of social stories to reinforce learning
✔ Routine and structured videos
Sources: NHS & mencap