Know a kid with a learning disability who could use support? Check out these local groups

Wichita State All-American runner and magna cum laude graduate Rebekah Topham dominated on the pavement and in the classroom, despite her unofficial dyslexia diagnosis making things tougher.

She got the help she needed, and if you need help or know someone who does, there are organizations and programs in Wichita that provide assistance. We found a few in the area that’ll help with dyslexia and other learning disabilities.

Brain Balance Wichita

Brain Balance has program centers all across the country. Their Wichita program is designed to help kids improve their focus, social and academic skills.

Each child’s program will be different, as they’re tailored to individual needs. Your child can work with one of the coaches three times a week on-site or take part in the at-home program with weekly check-ins with a program coach.

To see if your child qualifies for help, fill out the form or call 316-883-3949.

Phillips Fundamental Learning Center

For 21 years, they’ve worked to provide clarity and hope for kids with dyslexia. Staff provide assessments for children ages 5-18 who may have difficulty reading. The assessment can take place in person or over Zoom.

It consists of an hour meeting with your child exploring their phonemic, reading, writing and spelling skills, and after it’s over, you’ll receive a written report and recommendations for the next steps.

You can also enroll your child in the Ralph Literacy Academy, a private school at the learning center, designed to help kids with dyslexia.

To schedule an appointment, call 316-684-7323.

What about other learning disabilities?

Sedgwick County has a developmental disability organization designed to put your child in a place to succeed.

To apply for these services, call 316-660-7630 and an access specialist will schedule a meeting with you, where you’ll be given instructions to get important information needed to determine your child’s eligibility for services.

You’ll be given a packet for children 6 and under and 7 and up at your appointment. You’ll fill that out and then they’ll determine if you or your child are eligible for assistance.

This story was originally published January 30, 2022 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Know a kid with a learning disability who could use support? Check out these local groups."