Why do we continue to view individuals with learning challenges as damaged, broken, or less than? Why are we blind to the wealth of knowledge and unique abilities they possess, not in spite of, but because of the unique wiring of their mind?
Almost every week I meet someone who is still shackled with the shame of feeling they are “less than” because he or she is not a typical learner. At the same time, we live in a global economy that requires a wealth of different kinds of minds. I think this is the time to change our beliefs and perceptions and celebrate the unique abilities of our so-called “learning-challenged” people. Thomas Armstrong, in his book Neurodiversity, states “…many individuals who have dyslexia often see in three-dimensions…”, “…ADD people are high-energy and incredibly good brainstormers…”, “…ADHD has been called the “novelty-seeking gene”…those who possessed this gene are more likely to explore new territory, discover new food sources, or create new forms of social organization…”, and finally, “…autistic individuals are great systematizers….” To me, this looks like a gold mine of problem-solvers!
In fact, we would be wise to begin viewing individuals who have what we historically called “learning disabilities” as those who actually offer “learning opportunities” for the rest of the world.
How could we do this? Where could we start? We can start in the home or in the classroom by asking questions that help all of us discover how others see and learn the best. We can explore everyone’s strengths and weaknesses so there isn’t a false perception that some people are together or whole while others are broken or damaged. We can create opportunities that promote innovative solutions, even if they don’t seem plausible at the moment, because they foster novel problem-solving and original thinking.
What I am suggesting is promoting the activation of the conscious mind daily, because that will help open the door to new perceptions and also help create new and more effective approaches to life and learning for all.
The I Create What I Believe! (ICWIB) Program, which is based on the research of Bruce Lipton is a very simple way for children or adults to learn how to activate their conscious minds in almost any situation. If you would like to explore the ICWIB Program, the following activities are currently available on the website for free (just click the link to access an activity).
Just Scribble, ICWIB Activity One: Version One video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wURBZHk8jc&feature=youtu.be
Just Scribble, ICWIB Activity One: Version Two video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dp6fCHs5f2Q&feature=youtu.be
Just Scribble, ICWIB Activity One: Version Three video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KDelU_MDNrM
ICWIB Instructional Guide: Part One
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jlj7NDAfAFw&feature=youtu.be
ICWIB Instructional Guide: Part Two
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sH5PC1AhzGM&feature=youtu.be
Labyrinth, ICWIB Activity Four
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vt0D2I_drFM
Just Scribble, ICWIB Activity One (text):
https://icreatewhatibelieve.com/icwib-just-scribble/
Labyrinth, ICWIB Activity Four (text):
https://icreatewhatibelieve.com/icwib-labyrinth/
If you find the activities helpful and are interested in more, sign up for our FREE ICWIB newsletter: https://icreatewhatibelieve.com/newsletter/
For more information about the I Create What I Believe! Global Classroom: https://icreatewhatibelieve.com/global-classroom/
For more information about teacher training via Skype:
https://icreatewhatibelieve.com/presentations-and-training