A neurodevelopmental approach for helping gifted learners with diagnosed dyslexia and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD)

Abstract

Many intellectually and creatively gifted learners experience barriers to learning and development. These may be incorrectly diagnosed as distinct mental disorders, such as Attention Deficit Disorder, hyperactivity, dyslexia and so on. Medication, behaviour and remedial therapy are among the most frequently cited treatments. Emerging approaches to therapy, based on applied neuroscience and the importance of movement in structuring the brain, are finding that it is possible to ‘heal’ interactive links of dysfunctional behaviours and ensuing learning difficulties. This article presents a neurodevelopmental view of learning and attentional problems that are not uncommon in some gifted learners. By means of two case studies, a neurodevelopmental approach will be illustrated whereby such learners have been helped to overcome their learning barriers.