LDs and ADHD 101: Foundations for Supporting Learning and Success

Part 1 of LDAO’s Certification Series

This self-paced course provides a foundational understanding of learning disabilities (LDs) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), combining historical context with current, evidence-informed strategies.

Designed for educators, professionals, parents / caregivers, employers, and employees, this course helps participants strengthen their ability to recognize, understand, and support individuals with LDs and ADHD.

Developed by the Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario (LDAO)—a trusted leader in professional learning, advocacy, and support for over six decades—this course is the first in the LDAO Certification Series, a three-part professional learning pathway that promotes informed, inclusive, and evidence-based practice.

Participants who complete all three courses will receive an official Certificate of Completion from LDAO.

What You’ll Learn

By the end of this course, participants will be better equipped to:

  • Understand personal and systemic perspectives on LDs and ADHD
  • Recognize early indicators and contributing factors
  • Explore inclusive practices and modern tools that foster success
  • Interpret assessments and identify support strategies
  • Understand how co-occurring conditions may affect learning, work, and daily life

Who Should Take This Course

This course is ideal for:

  • Educators and school staff
  • Parents and caregivers
  • Employers and workplace leaders
  • Anyone new to understanding LDs and ADHD

Availability: Now open

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Course Content

Each unit includes interactive activities, curated resources, and reflection opportunities.

Unit 1: Foundations – Understanding Learning Disabilities and ADHD

Explore the definitions and historical context of LDs and ADHD.

Unit 2: Contributing Factors and Early Signs

Understand what contributes to LDs/ADHD and how early signs may appear.

Unit 3: Identification, Types, and Processing

Learn how LDs are categorized, how they impact learning, and what that means in practice for support and planning.

Unit 4: Understanding a Diagnosis

Gain confidence in interpreting psychoeducational assessments and next steps.

Unit 5: Supporting Individuals with LDs and ADHD

Discover evidence-based, inclusive strategies you can use across school, home, and community settings.

Unit 6: Resources, Case Studies, and Feedback

Wrap up with real-world application, tools, and reflection.

Whether you’re an educator, parent, or professional, this course will leave you better equipped to recognize, understand, and support individuals with LDs and ADHD.

Time Commitment:

Core content requires approximately 10+ hours to complete. With reflection activities and curated resources, learners typically engage for a total of 20+ hours.

Format:

Self-paced, interactive, includes reflection activities and knowledge checks

Audience:

Educators, professionals, parents / caregivers, employers, and employees

Certification Pathway:

This is Part 1 of 3 in LDAO’s Certification Series on LDs and ADHD. Complete all three to earn a Certificate of Completion from the Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario.