Solution

Incorporating the principles of Universal Design for Learning, Understood.org translates expert information into easy-to-use, engaging, and practical information that helps parents on a day-to-day basis to assist children with learning and attention issues. One of the features, “Through Your Child’s Eyes,” provides five short game-like simulations allowing parents to experience their children’s learning and attention issues, watch videos about children like theirs, as well as hear expert input. Another tool called “Tech Finder” matches available technology with children’s specific needs, while “Parenting Coach” summarizes expert behavioral advice collected over the years into proven, bite-sized tips. In addition, free daily online chats and webinars give parents access to renowned experts and the opportunity to ask questions.

Impact

• From October 2014 to mid of 2017 more than 32 million visitors have used Understood.org resources, with a record of 2 million individuals in a single month in 2017.
• In March 2017 usage increased by 51 percent compared to the year before.

Goals

The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD), one of Understood.org’s founding partners and the organization that operated Understood.org, is a leading organization, committed to improving the lives of the one in five children and adults nationwide with learning and attention issues. Together, the NCLD policy team and the Understood.org team bring the parent perspective to NCLD’s critical policy work with national and state lawmakers.

Understood.org has also begun to work on the ground by bringing parents together, supporting them, and mobilizing them to advocate at the local, state, and national level. Although designed for parents whose children attend U.S. schools, Understood.org has been discovered and embraced by people from around the world in both English and Spanish.