WESTLAKE, Ohio - Do you have concerns about your child’s reading or math skills? Have you been told your child is at risk for dyslexia? Would you like an easy way to meet tutors, specialists, or programs to see if they are a match for your child’s needs?
The questions are serious, which is why Connecting for Kids is hosting a Learning Disability Provider Resource Showcase on Nov. 29, 6-8 p.m. at Westlake Porter Public Library.
The showcase will provide the chance to meet with area providers offering tutoring and learning disability services at no charge, according to Connecting for Kids.
Some of the local resources, programs and services that will be included are:
· Academic Programs
· Education Advocates & Attorneys
· Executive Functioning Specialists
· IEP help (Individualized Education Program)
· Specialized Schools
· Tutors
Michelle of Brooklyn Heights stepped up to let others know of the value of the upcoming event.
“What I did in many hours of searching the internet and making phone calls,” Michelle said, “parents will now be able to do in one night. Being able to talk directly to providers and finding out immediately if they have openings and are a good fit for your child is so helpful.”
Michelle noted she wished there was something like the Learning Disability Provider Resource Fair when her children were first diagnosed.
Connecting for Kids staff at the event will be available to suggest resources and even other programs to help your children even if you aren’t sure where to start.
“Ohio’s new dyslexia screening law is increasing the number of parents calling us with questions about how to have their child screened or how to find resources for a child struggling academically,” said Sarah Rintamaki, Executive Director of Connecting for Kids.
In addition, Westlake Porter Public librarians will offer books along with the children’s activities that aid in literacy.
Youth Services Manager at the library, Rebecca Shook, said, “With funding provided by the Ohio Department of Education through the Libraries Accelerated Learning Grant, we are excited for the opportunity to work together with Connecting for Kids to offer support to families with the resources available at the Learning Disability Provider Showcase. For more than 10 years, our partnership with Connecting for Kids has led to a fundamental impact on our community.”
There will be interactive family activities at the event as well as Sunburst Snacks from the Down Syndrome Association of Northeast Ohio.
To register, visit https://connectingforkids.org/showcase. Those who register by Nov. 28 and attend the showcase, the library information notes, will be entered into a drawing for a $100 gift card.
For questions or more information email Joellen Podoll, Connecting for Kids Community Relations Manager, at joellenpodoll@connectingforkids.org or call 440-340-9394.
Westlake Porter Public Library is located at 27333 Center Ridge Road in Westlake.