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 conducted with UBC show that LDS RISE students are catching up to their general classroom peers on average by up to an astounding ½ grade level per year with significant increases in self-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
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UBC Faculty of Education
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University of Waterloo Social and Intelligent Robotics Research Lab
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UBC Psychological Services and Counselling Training Centre
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Program Overview
LDS delivers inclusive and financially accessible programs that follow its proven RISE methodology and target student-specific learning loss and educational needs.
See AllFeatured Programs
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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
Adult Learning
Adults with suspected or diagnosed learning differences get targeted and individualized support and intervention to help them achieve their specific learning, education, or employment goals.
- Ages
- 18+
- Where
- East Vancouver & North Vancouver Learning Centres
- Dates/Times
- Monday – Friday 9 am to 7 pm, Saturday 9 am – 5 pm
In the Press
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– Carla Ward interviews Marlo Humiski, Senior Manager, Early Years Programs. The discussion highlights the Early Risers Program, which provides early intervention in a preschool-like setting, engaging families through community partnerships and workshops. With a focus on literacy, numeracy, and fine motor skills, the program includes professional support from specialists and features QT the Robot to aid emotional awareness.
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– Rachel Forbes, Executive Director at LDS, is interviewed by CBC Daybreak about how kids with learning differences can be supported as they return to school. Rachel shares some of the barriers families face and encourages them to find support as they advocate for the best possible learning for their kids.
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– Nearly 10% of BC’s population has a learning disorder, with many going undiagnosed until adulthood. Rachel Forbes, Executive Director at LDS, says many families face barriers to access diagnosis support.
Learn MoreNews + Resources
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Prevent Sensory Overload this Holiday Season
The holidays can be a magical time. However, it can also be a time of heightened stress and overstimulation, particularly for neurodivergent individuals and families with neurodivergent children.
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Community Compass – December 2024
Welcome to our Community Compass blog series! Are you searching for exciting and enriching activities to fill your calendar in the Lower Mainland? Look no further! We’re thrilled to introduce our monthly blog post highlighting a curated selection of engaging events and activities in our community.
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Advocating for your Child’s Needs in BC Schools Without an IEP
There are still effective ways to advocate for your child’s educational needs if you don’t have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Here’s a guide to help you navigate the process and advocate for your child’s unique needs.
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