LIKE most parents in her position, Jenny Green had difficulty finding the right help when her child was diagnosed with a learning disability.
As she became better at navigating the available services, she found there were many others who felt just as isolated and unsure of where to turn to get the best help for their children and support for themselves.
The result was the first Learning Difficulties, Disabilities & Early Intervention Expo in 2007.
The event was organised by Sutherland Shire Learning Difficulties Support Group, of which Mrs Green is a member
The event was found to be highly useful for families and service providers, and is now held every two years.
The next expo is on Saturday, March 24, at Caringbah Baptist Church.
There will be more than 60 exhibitors to advise families whose children are struggling at school, have learning difficulties, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, challenging behaviour, anxiety, a disability or developmental delay.
Professional speakers will talk on special needs topics related to childcare and family issues.
Representatives of local services attending include:
- ADHC
- Janine Painter Occupational Therapy Services
- Autism Spectrum Australia (ASPECT)
- Epilepsy Action Australia
- Kogarah Diagnostic and Assessment Centre
- Sutherland Special Needs Toy Library
- Support Groups for Learning Difficulties, Autism, Dyspraxia & Dyslexia
- Association for Children with a Disability NSW
- Learning Links
- Sylvanvale Foundation
- Quantum Reading Learning Vision
- Mental Health Association
- ADDults with ADHD(NSW) Inc
- Dyslexia NSW
- Cerebral Palsy Alliance
- Shirewide Youth Services
- Steve Dawson, clinical psychologist
- KU Inclusion Support Agency
- Vision Australia
- Assistance Dogs
- Department of Education & Communities
- Book & Resource Sellers
Entry is free and food and drink will be available. Check the website for a complete list of exhibitors.
Details: learningdifficulties.org.au; 85448604; or:
