The Learning Connection

Q. What inspired you to become interested in learning differences and ADD?

A. I became interested in child development when my second child, who is now 28, was born. He was so different from my first, with different sleeping habits and learning issues than my first, and it made me very curious about child development. This led me to years of studying not only child development, but the way children learn, including the impact of parenting issues and styles, gifted learners, right- and left-brain differences and their impact on learning, ADD, and on from there. Learning about my son's differences led me to a number of realizations about myself and to a better understanding of some of the challenges I experienced in high school and college.

Q. Most people associate learning differences with school problems. How do such differences show up in adults and what kinds of problems do they create?

A. Whenever anyone - be it a child, a teen or an adult - has struggles that lead to "under-achievement" in school, at work, in relationships -- such as marriage or friendships --- or in other areas of life, there is reason to consider the possibility of Attention Deficit Disorder. Symptoms that typically indicate ADD in adults are excessive distractibility, impulsivity and restlessness, sleep irregularities, disorganization, parenting challenges, financial chaos, failed relationships, and struggles with time management, work habits and more.

Q. What do you think are the most important criteria for a coach?

A. The relationship between coach and client is that of a partnership. A good fit between coach and client is vital, and you have to ask a lot of questions to get a sense of whether or not a particular coach will be a good fit for you. You also should be as specific as possible in stating your specific needs and challenges and your desired goals. In asking these questions, you might also pay attention to the less tangible, but equally important characteristics such as style, energy and tone of the prospective coach being interviewed. The coach's ability to listen, summarize and help you in expressing this information may be a further indication of how well you might work together in partnership. You want someone who not only is experienced and knowledgeable, but who will be a total support and advocate for you.

Q. What kind of commitment does coaching require?

A. The commitment varies from client to client. Most coaches ask for a three-month commitment to try out the process. It takes a while to get to know each other and come up with the process that is most effective to meet the clients desired needs and expected outcomes.

Q. If learning differences that were unaddressed have always made reading a slow and/or difficult process for someone, is it 'too late' to overcome that as an adult?

A. It is never too late to learn and better understand ones learning challenges, differences and struggles. It is when difficulties are identified that improvements and success can follow. Seeing a professional who works specifically with adults is the key to finding successful treatment, programs and help.

Q. What books, websites, local schools, support groups or other resources would you recommend that encourage understanding of learning differences in both children and adults?

A. In my observation, the fastest and most comprehensive source of information is on the internet ---- exploring the many, many sites that address both AD/HD and coaching. However, I believe that The Learning Connections is a very unique resource that assists individuals, couples and families in coping with and better understanding learning differences. We promote the concept that learning differences can be identified, understood, managed and ultimately valued. Over the years, I have encountered so many bright, creative, talented and capable children and adults whose approaches, perspectives and abilities are unique and ultimately very valuable, that I really cannot think of them as having learning disabilities. We are committed to assisting, encouraging and providing support for individuals with learning differences through consulting, coaching, workshops and resources.

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Beverly Rohman

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