Understanding Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) in Children: Key Facts for Parents

Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) refers to any damage to the brain that occurs after birth from a traumatic or non-traumatic event. It can dramatically impact a child's life in a myriad of ways, ranging from cognitive, physical, emotional, and behavioural changes. As a parent, understanding brain injuries and the implications they can have on your child's academic and personal growth can be a critical first step in managing this challenging situation. At Goode Learning, our team of professional educators and consultants are well-versed in providing comprehensive educational support for children with brain injuries, delivering tailored learning strategies to help them thrive.

What is Acquired Brain Injury (ABI)?

An ABI can result from various causes such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI) often caused by falls, accidents, or sports injuries, or non-traumatic brain injuries caused by illnesses, infections, strokes, or lack of oxygen to the brain. ABIs do not include congenital or degenerative conditions. The effects of an ABI can be unique to each child, and their abilities may vary day-to-day based on factors like fatigue, stress, and health.

How Do Brain Injuries Impact Learning?

Children with brain injuries may experience changes in their learning abilities. They may struggle with concentration, memory, processing information, forming new learning connections, and managing their behaviour. They may face challenges in reading, writing, numeracy, understanding instructions, and completing assignments. Recognizing these challenges is the first step toward tailoring an effective teaching and learning approach.

Classroom Adjustments for Children with Acquired Brain Injuries

Classroom adjustments can significantly enhance the learning experience for children with brain injuries. Here are some strategies:

1. Personalised Learning Approach: Adjust the curriculum and teaching strategies to suit a student's learning pace and style. Use various teaching methods such as visual aids, hands-on activities, and software programs to make learning interactive and engaging.

2. Structured Environment: Providing a consistent routine can help students with an ABI cope better in a classroom setting. Regular schedules, clear rules, and expectations can provide stability and help reduce uncertainty and stress.

3. Regular Breaks: Regular breaks can help manage fatigue and improve focus. It allows the student to rest and recharge, which can improve their ability to learn and retain new information.

4. Multisensory Teaching Techniques: Using multisensory teaching techniques can aid understanding and memory. Presenting information visually, audibly, and with tactile experiences can enhance a child's learning process.

5. Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement encourages good behaviour and boosts self-esteem. Provide praise for achievements, even the small ones, to build confidence.

How Can Goode Learning Help?

At Goode Learning, our dedicated team of professionals is committed to fostering an inclusive, individualized learning environment for all children, including those with brain injuries. With our expertise in both subject-specific and strategies-specific learning, we offer various services tailored to your child’s unique needs. These range from 1:1 Tutoring, Reading Interventions, and Executive Functioning Skills enhancement, to Homework Help+. 

IEP Support for Children with ABI

Our IEP Support service provides parents of children with brain injuries an opportunity to have their child's Individual Education Plan (IEP) reviewed by a special education specialist. This evaluation can help parents understand the IEP better and address any queries they have, plus it allows us to provide recommendations and action steps to ensure the child's academic success.

Professional Development

We also offer Professional Development services for parents, teachers, and special education specialists working with children with brain injuries. These expert-led sessions aim to equip you with cutting-edge strategies for enhancing the learning outcomes of your child or students with ABI.

Partnering with Goode Learning

Understanding and managing brain injuries can be challenging, but with comprehensive educational support, children with ABI can continue to learn and grow at their own pace. At Goode Learning, we are committed to driving your child’s success by cultivating an environment that recognizes their unique abilities and needs.

If you're a parent with a child with a brain injury and want to learn more about how we can support your child's learning journey, contact us today. Together, we can discuss the best educational strategies and services for your child.