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January 2025

Volume 1, No 40 (PDF)

Embracing 2025: Advocacy, Opportunity, and Inclusion for All

As we roll into 2025, the Learning Disabilities Association of Canada continues to be focused on advocating for all individuals living with Learning Disabilities. We are thankful for the valuable support and programs available through provincial and territorial Learning Disability Organizations and Chapters.  

The need for support in the Learning Disabilities community grows, as the complexity of the world ever increases. The expanding influence and sophistication of burgeoning technologies, such as AI, may possibly create greater opportunities and support for everyone, including those with Learning Disabilities.  

However, we also recognize that some misconceptions about Learning Disabilities persist, and so we continue to advocate for an inclusive, equitable society for all in 2025. 

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We need your help!

Despite progress, obtaining necessary services and tools for education remains a struggle for parents and young adults with learning disabilities. Working adults also face difculties revealing their LD for fear of negative consequences.

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Landmark College is renowned for its specialized programs designed for students with learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, or executive function challenges. As a dedicated partner of LDAC, Landmark offers international students from Canada an inclusive academic environment where individualized support leads to success.

Discover how Landmark College is empowering students to learn differently and excel beyond expectations.

Learn More

Dr. Gabrielle Young

Gabrielle D. Young, PhD, is an Associate Professor at Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN), where she teaches undergraduate and graduate courses surrounding understanding and supporting students with specific learning disorders, as well as the practicum in special education.

Dr. Young’s research interests surround the use of assistive and instructional technology in inclusive classrooms, applying the principles of universal design for learning to support students with exceptionalities in the general education classroom, and pre-service teachers’ efficacy to support students in inclusive classrooms and facilitate positive mental health.

Learn more about Dr. Young’s work and publications :
https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=fsCZqT8AAAAJ&hl=e

Rising Support for Students with Disabilities in New Brunswick

A recent report highlights a growing trend in New Brunswick’s post-secondary institutions: an increasing number of students are reporting disabilities, including learning disabilities. This rise underscores the critical need for accessible education and robust support systems.

Universities and colleges are responding with enhanced accommodations and tailored programs to ensure these students thrive academically and socially. This development reflects a broader commitment to inclusivity and equity in education values.

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Jamie Oliver Sheds Light on Dyslexia in Powerful New Documentary

World-renowned chef and advocate Jamie Oliver delves into his personal journey with dyslexia in a compelling new Channel 4 documentary. The program highlights the unique challenges and strengths of living with dyslexia, offering insights into how it has shaped his creativity and career. Oliver’s candid storytelling sheds light on the importance of embracing neurodiversity and understanding the lived experiences of individuals with learning differences. 

This documentary is a timely reminder of the importance of creating a society that celebrates diverse abilities. As advocates for individuals with learning disabilities, the Learning Disabilities Association of Canada applauds efforts to raise awareness and promote inclusivity.

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Idris Elba and the Role of Assistive Technology in Dyslexia

In a recent interview, actor and advocate Idris Elba opened up about his experience with dyslexia and the pivotal role assistive technology has played in his career. The article explores how Elba has leveraged tools designed to support individuals with learning disabilities, enabling him to overcome challenges and excel in his craft. 

Elba’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of accessibility and innovation in technology for those with learning differences and highlights the transformative potential of assistive technology in empowering individuals with dyslexia and other learning disabilities.

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Supportive Ideas for Refilling the Executive Functioning Fuel Tank: 'I Know What I Need To Do, But Why Can’t I Do It?

As we try to stick to our New Year’s resolutions, life gets in the way, which can cause us to struggle with our executive functions. A recent article from Foothills Academy provides supportive ideas for refilling the executive functioning fuel tank, exploring the common challenges of planning, organizing, and following through when our mental resources are depleted. 

This resource offers actionable strategies to help individuals regain focus and achieve their goals.

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The Learning Disabilities Association of Canada has no afliation with the media outlets or organizations, and is not responsible for the content reported in each article. We are simply providing some highlights of the publicly available stories that hit the news this month. To keep all of us aware of what is happening in the world, we provide Canadian, US and global stories where relevant. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but hopefully it provides you with some food for thought

Overcoming Challenges: Larry Mullen Jr.'s Journey with Dyscalculia

Larry Mullen Jr., the renowned drummer and co-founder of U2, who recently revealed his struggle with dyscalculia—a learning disability affecting numerical comprehension. Mullen shared that counting bars in music feels like “climbing Everest,” shedding light on the challenges faced by individuals with this condition. 

Despite these obstacles, Mullen’s perseverance has been instrumental in U2’s global success. His journey underscores the message that learning disabilities do not define one’s potential. As Mullen’s experience illustrates, with determination and the right support, individuals can overcome challenges and achieve greatness.

Dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD... The new children’s book BORN TO BE ME! Presents 15 true stories of amazing Canadians from all walks of life who live with a learning disability or difficulty.

“We distributed “Born to Be Me” to grade 6 and 7 families forparents and kids to read the testimonials and experiences of Canadians with Disabilities. The book can help individuals with their ownself-perception, esteem and confidence”.Simon Williams, Executive Co-Director, Foothills Academy Society

Click Here to Purchase

Published by Dominique & Friends, in collaboration with all of the 9 provinces and territories of the Learning Disabilities Association of Canada, this new book follows the publication of the French books ” Non aux étiquettes! ” and “Mission : Non aux étiquettes!” Jennifer Couëlle’s lively texts are illustrated in full color by Phil Poulin. Adapted fonts make reading easier for dyslexic persons. A glossary at the end of the book explains the different diagnoses.

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT!

Despite our progress, parents and young adults with learning disabilities continue to face challenges in accessing essential services and educational tools. Additionally, working adults often hesitate to disclose their learning disabilities due to concerns about potential negative repercussions. Your help can make a significant diference in overcoming these obstacles.

Your generous donation will enable us to continue our vital work and expand our reach. With your support, we can

  • Advocate for policies and programs that foster inclusion and accessibility for individuals with learning disabilities.
  • Conduct research and share valuable insights on issues and solutions related to learning disabilities.
  • Educate and train parents, teachers, employers, and professionals on how to efectively support individuals with learning disabilities.
  • Provide essential services and resources to individuals and families impacted by learning disabilities.
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LDAC, where together, we can make a difference!

Sincerely,
The LDAC Team