Kids with learning disabilities may not be able to work out situations or problems in the mainstream way, but by seeking out new solutions they may find ways to learn or get the task done.
I watched a television program on the BBC from the Child of our Times series that explored creativity in kids and one of the children featured had a learning disability - ADHD. The commentator brought up an interesting question to the viewers that was something like - when a child with ADHD is on medication so they can sit still and learn are we sacrificing their creative spirit at the expense of learning facts?
Here is the BBC web page if you're interested in reading more about the program. I think what is offered at this page is worthwhile reading.
I have found through teaching academics kinesthetically to students with and without learning disabilities during my years as a dance specialist, that kids who are encouraged to move in patterns and rhythms branch out to creative moves of their own.
Further, I found that moving around enthusiastically sparks more energy for learning. It seems to get the ball of ideas rolling in a way, I think, that goes along with the theory that set in motion a ball rolls along the floor.
When kids are enthusiastic and full of energy they would naturally act creatively if allowed to and given the chance. I have found when a child produces a creation that they admire, they remember it. This follows then, that encouraging creativity in kids will be an asset in later life in finding solutions as needed.
Promoting and giving space for kids to use their creative energy and produce results may result in them finding a way of learning that is natural for them - the end result may look the same for 20 children but there may be 20 paths to reach that end. Helping kids find their own way of learning by watching their creative play gives a hint on how to encourage learning new material and find solutions as they grow up.
In summary, everyone learns in their own way, whether with learning disabilities or not, and by encouraging enthusiastic creative play the way an individual naturally learns may show up. Then, when put to use to learn facts or find solutions throughout childhood and adulthood, the idea that trying out different methods and strategies will naturally come to mind.
Article by Susan Kramer
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