#USA #New York #ADHD #Dyslexia #Understood.org

Understanding Learning Differences Through 'Through My Eyes'

Understood.org, a prominent nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for the 70 million individuals in the U.S. with learning and thinking differences, launched an innovative platform titled 'Through My Eyes'. This unique digital tool aims to bridge the understanding gap between children facing these challenges—such as ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia—and their peers, educators, and families.

A Glimpse Into the Lives of Affected Children

'Through My Eyes' offers an unprecedented immersive experience, enabling users to navigate the daily lives and challenges encountered by children living with learning differences. By pairing authentic narratives with expert resources, this platform promotes a holistic understanding and inspires advocacy among adults and children alike.

The initiative is part of Understood.org's campaign 'See Differently, Act Differently', which seeks to encourage parents and educators to move past common misconceptions about learning differences. According to recent research conducted by the organization, over 40% of parents fail to recognize that these differences stem from biological variations in the brain, often attributing them instead to environmental influences and parenting styles.

Immersive Storytelling: Real Experiences, Real Impact

The platform is designed to equip users with a better perspective on the lives of children grappling with learning differences. 'Through My Eyes' features:

• - Nine Documentary-Style Videos: Children share personal stories regarding their experiences with ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia, shedding light on their realities in various settings, such as home and school.
• - Gamified Simulations: Users can engage with interactive simulations starring the same children featured in the videos. These simulations aim to replicate real-life scenarios typical for these children, allowing users to experience the obstacles they face, as well as the support and accommodations that can help them thrive.
• - Expert-Created Resources: A collection of 16 supportive resources developed by Understood's experts is available to guide families, teachers, and peers on providing the necessary support to children with learning differences.

Accessibility and Collaboration

Best of all, 'Through My Eyes' is accessible on various platforms, including mobile, tablets, and desktops. Users can effortlessly reach the platform via U.org/ThroughMyEyes without the need for special hardware or software.

Understood.org’s initiative was made possible through generous support from various organizations, including the Oak Foundation, InnovateEDU, and Split This Rock. The development process involved collaboration with a diverse array of experts in the fields of psychology, education, and special needs advocacy, reassuring users of the platform's credibility and effectiveness.

Closing the Understanding Gap

Nathan Friedman, the co-president of Understood.org, stated, "Through My Eyes is a clear emblem of our mission to improve the way society understands and supports children with learning differences. By combining our expertise and technological innovation, we're making tangible strides toward equitable educational opportunities for all."

Ultimately, 'Through My Eyes' serves as an exceptional resource, helping to dispel myths and encourage more informed advocacy for children with learning and thinking differences. By sharing the authentic experiences of those affected, Understood.org is empowering its users to give voice to these children's journeys and foster a more inclusive environment in schools and communities.

For those interested in exploring this groundbreaking platform, additional resources can be found at Understood.org. Together, we can champion a future where every learner’s path is understood and supported.