Effat College and the Future Experts Center ran a two-day conference titled “Learning Differences Forum” on Wednesday and Thursday. The college said the conference came in recognition of the lack of expertise in the field of learning disabilities in Saudi Arabia. A team of experts in the forum showed ways to properly identify learning disorders and other psycho-educational processes. The event included workshops for the attendees. “We have engaged ourselves in the cause by seeking renowned experts throughout the world and inviting them to come and share their knowledge,” said Dr. Raymond Hamden, a clinical and forensic psychologist. “They hope to make a difference in the lives of those who suffer silently.” He added that if a student has a learning disability, it can get him into trouble if he or she goes unnoticed by educators at an early stage, “so why not target this issue beforehand?” added Hamden. Reema Hadid, an educationlist and behavioral–emotional specialist, said that about one in every 10 people has a learning disorder. She added that true learning disorders are due to abnormalities in brain structure or function, which can be hereditary. “The sooner you discover the irregularity and find treatment for it, the greater the chances of a better life for the person,” she said. She added that parents should be able to differentiate between a learning disorder and a normal behavioral problem in their child. “That's why we will continue to arrange such workshops to train people how to diagnose abnormalities in their children and to consult doctors early on.” Sabine Rizk-Skaf, a clinical psychologist, said sometimes it is quite difficult for parents to accept the reality that their child has a learning disorder. “They should realize the fact and immediately work for its solution, rather than just denying it,” she said. __
