subject: Does Brain Training Really Help Learning Disabilities [print this page] Brain training is popular these days and there are many programs to train a person to improve the thinking process. Who does not want to think clearer, faster, and improve the brain development process. For some of us this training is great but optional. However, for others this training can mean the difference in having a normal life or one that is severely limited.
A disability is defined in Webster's dictionary as a limitation or restriction. A child with a learning disability is restricted and limited in learning capacity when one or more cognitive skills are underdeveloped. For example, memory is an area of the brain in which we all would like to see improvement. If we do not stimulate and challenge the area of the brain that controls memory, our capacity for memory is curtailed through lack of use or stimulation.
Memory is a cognitive skill or ability that can be developed and improved with proper training.
Targeted cognitive brain training, pinpoints the areas of the brain that need improvement. For children with learning disabilities such as dyslexia, ADD, ADHD, or autism this is especially important. Cognitive skills will give these children a solid foundation on which to learn.
For example, Timmy reads so slowly that the text has no meaning and never finishes his work on time; Amy is a fast reader but skips words and lines when reading and lacks comprehension; Jake lacks concentration, has poor memory skills and a short attention span, therefore, he cannot remember anything he reads; Steve goes to tutoring for several months each year and catches up with class and then falls behind in school again. These problems will never go away and will only get worse over time if something isn"t done to address and solve the problem.
An intervention of intense cognitive brain training to improve cognitive skills and abilities will lay a strong foundation of success. One on one training can be done in a clinical setting or at home or school.
