The evidence available so far generally refutes the claim that artificial food colorings in the diet substantially aggravate the behavior of children with learning disability and hyperkinesis. (JD)

More than five years of research offers little evidence that students who attend federally funded remedial and learning disabled reading programs improve their reading skills. The three assumptions underlying these programs are discussed. Ways teachers and schools can evaluate their programs are listed. (MT)

What makes the surge in learning disabled (LD) children disturbing is that no one clearly understands what LD really means. LD is usually defined in terms of disability, deficiency, and disadvantage--rather than ability, asset, and advantage. Studies now reveal that LD children actually possess positive learning styles and abilities that were…

Describes how a third-grade teacher worked with a child in her class who had attention deficit disorder. The child was easily distracted and frustrated and had low self-esteem. The teacher's sensitivity to his ups and downs and her flexibility in modifying lessons helped the child succeed. (SM)

Two elementary teachers discuss their experiences of having children with attention deficit disorder and learning disabilities in their second-grade classrooms, focusing on the process involved in deciding whether or not to medicate the children with Ritalin to enhance their ability to learn. (SM)

The parent of a child who suffered from a developmental disability tells of problems with the kindergarten teacher concerning the child's placement and evaluation. Parents can provide valuable information about their children--if only teachers will listen. (PP)

A system of testing children for educational disabilities, first known as "Graphogestalt" and later as "SCREEN", has been discredited by responsible evaluators but is still offered to teachers and endorsed by some government experts. (JD)

A survey of classroom teachers revealed that most support remedial and learning-disabled resource room reading programs, although many teachers would prefer smaller classes to the many federal programs which they feel do not always address their needs. (CB)

A second grade teacher describes how a difficult student with learning disabilities blossomed over the course of the school year. The article examines her whole class approach and presents strategies for including such a student in creative writing activities. (SM)

Most teachers do not have enough training to teach reading, and many students, especially special needs students, cannot adapt to traditional instruction. The paper stresses the importance of a rich language environment at school to benefit students who lack it at home. Students can also benefit from a multisensory approach. (SM)