Neuroaffirming Learning Support
Our Research-informed Individualized Student Education (RISE) meets the unique needs of each individual learner with learning or brain-based differences, aged 3 to adult.
What We Do
Through our one-to-one specialized learning support, LDS empowers unique learners to recognize their own strengths, gain confidence, and achieve lifelong confidence and success inside and outside the classroom. In “Josh’s story” Jennifer and Donna share their son’s story, and how working with LDS helped him realize his potential and discover his superpowers.
Why LDS?
Since 1970, LDS has been delivering transformational support programs that span the full development cycle and target student-specific learning needs. Our expanding RISE programs are progress monitored and aligned with BC’s Core Competencies and research-based curricula. They are designed to be holistic, individualized, inclusive, technology-enabled, and classroom integrated. With the support of our education and technology partners, donors, corporate sponsors, and community partners, we can meet the unique needs of all learners including those with suspected or diagnosed learning disabilities (clinical term) like dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, processing disorders, and learning challenges that may be related to ADHD or to ASD/autism.
Experienced, specialized instructors
Our highly qualified, passionate instructors include BC-Certified Teachers, Special Education Assistants, Orton-Gillingham certified instructors, Speech Language Pathologists, Inclusive Education Instructors, Occupational Therapists, Certified Early Childhood Educators and more!
Individualized, resource-intensive support
A customized learning plan is designed for each student by our specialized team. This includes our Lead Case Manager and a carefully matched instructor.
Technology-enhanced
We consistently integrate leading assistive technologies in innovative ways into our customized programs to improve and more deeply personalize the learning process for our students.
Proven results
Our multi-year studies with UBC show that LDS RISE students are progressing on average by up to an astounding 1.5 grade levels each year and reporting significant increases in confidence and self-esteem.
Accessible and inclusive
We design our physical and virtual spaces and programs with inclusivity top-of-mind. Our sliding fee scale ensures that students of all ages and backgrounds can access our learning support.
Our Education Partners
See All
UBC Faculty of Education
Visit their website
University of Waterloo Social and Intelligent Robotics Research Lab
Visit their website
UBC Psychological Services and Counselling Training Centre
Visit their website
Featured Instructor
With many years of experience working with ESL learners and students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Evalyn is committed to creating inclusive learning environments. She holds a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education, a Master’s in Teaching English Language Arts, and a PhD in Reading Education, and continues to expand her knowledge in TESL. She brings this blend of lived experience and professional expertise to her role at LDS.
See Evalyn’s full bioFeatured Programs
Open
RISE One-to-One Instruction
Our comprehensive learning support is personalized to meet each student’s learning goals. Get support in foundational skills – literacy and/or math and school skills – executive function, self-regulation for learning, studying, homework and coursework.
- Ages
- 5 – 18
- Where
- East Vancouver & North Vancouver Learning Centres, online, on LDS Access, or at schools
- Dates/Times
- Monday to Friday 9 am – 7 pm, Saturdays 9 am – 4 pm
Open
Early RISErs
Early RISErs is an early childhood education and intervention program with parent/guardian participation that is focused on equipping families with knowledge about their young child and their learning and development to date.
- Ages
- 3 – 5
- Where
- East Vancouver Learning Centre
- Dates/Times
- Fall, winter, and spring cohorts. Fall cohort on either Fridays 10 am – 12 pm or Saturdays 10 am – 12 pm
Open
Academic Assessment (KTEA-3)
The Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement, third edition (KTEA-3) is a Level-B academic assessment. It provides detailed information on a student’s reading, written expression, and mathematics performance.
- Ages
- 4 – 25
- Where
- Learning Centres
- Dates/Times
- Varying
- Application
- Open
News + Resources
See All
High School Ready: Supporting Your Neurodivergent Teen
If you missed this live workshop, you can watch the full recording below and gain practical tools to support your neurodivergent teen’s high school transition.
Learn More
Trust Your Gut: Why Early Screening & Intervention Matter
As a parent, you know your child better than anyone. If you have concerns about your child’s development or learning, trust your instincts and seek help. Waiting and hoping they’ll “grow out of it” can delay the support they may need.
Research consistently shows that early identification and intervention lead to significantly better outcomes for children with learning differences and brain-based differences like dyslexia, ADHD, autism, and other challenges
Learn More
What to expect when applying to Jordan’s Principle
Learn about Jordan’s Principle, who is eligible, and how you can use this funding from Indigenous Services Canada to fund sessions and services with LDS.
Learn More