See it Differently, Change your Learning Different Child’s Life. | Lynda Sloan Allen | TEDxVeroBeach

Every child learns in a unique way, yet our schools still rely on a one-size-fits-most learning model that leaves millions behind. With 1 in 5 students identified as “learning different” and many more bright, gifted, and differently learning-abled, it’s time to revolutionize how we educate. Fifty years ago, parents led the movement that guaranteed every child the right to an education. Today, parents can once again be the catalysts for transforming how our children are perceived, supported, and taught. This talk is a call to hope, possibility, and action. It challenges us to shift our mindset away from what’s “wrong” or “missing” and toward what’s strong, achievable, and full of potential. By reframing “learning differences” as diverse abilities, we open the door to innovative, specialized learning environments that unleash every child’s brilliance. It’s a change that starts not in schools or government offices, but in the hearts and minds of parents. Join special educator and parent empowerment specialist Lynda Sloan Allen as she shares how seeing education differently can change everything for learning-different children. My passion to become a teacher and make a difference for people who are “born with differences” began in my early teens. I started by volunteering 5000+ hours at community programs, which looked great on my resume. I then earned both Master and Bachelor of Education degrees in Elementary and Exceptional Student Education, from the University of Miami (1973-1977), becoming one of the first Special Education teachers in FL and one of the first Early Intervention Specialists in the nation. For 50 years now, I have worked with non-profits, for-profits, government, and my own businesses, serving children and families in most every capacity. From case management at Big Brothers/Big Sisters, to assistant director of a Sheltered Workshop for Adults, being a community trainer/mentor for the U.S. Department’s Drug-Free Schools and Communities Program, and even as the first Resource Development Specialist for a Children’s Services Council. For the past two decades, I have loved being a Learning Specialist at my Make Your Mark in Life Learning Center in Vero Beach, FL, where I supported thousands of students, helping them to learn based on their unique strengths, interests, talents, and goals. This has led to my final passion project: Empowered Parents Creating the Best Education Experience for their Learning Different Child. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx