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Learning Differences
Many students who attend Mansfield Hall arrive with a history of various labels, including learning differences, learning disabilities, challenges with working memory or processing speed, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), social communication disorder, a nonverbal learning disability (NLD/NVLD), or PDD-NOS, or even anxiety or depression. Often times, we are asked how we uniquely approach each of these diagnosis.
Although there are variations within each classification our response is that we work with People, not labels.
It should also be noted that with the publication of the DSM-V in 2013, as well as the DSM-V-TR (Text Revised) version released in 2022, Asperger’s is no longer recognized a formal diagnosis, and the traits previously associated with Asperger’s are now covered by the ASD-I criteria.
Regardless of important technicalities, it’s important to note that all of these diagnoses share commonalities that respond best to a holistic and integrated approach to addressing a student’s needs in college. Social challenges, difficulty with perspective-taking, and diverse learning needs require an approach that addresses much more than just academics, and thus our Four Core Approach evaluates and proactively addresses how these various characteristics can impact a student’s success.
When providing support and accommodations for students with and learning difference, including dyslexia, dysgraphia, ASD, PDD-NOS, & NLD or NVLDs it is critical to address these challenges across all domains. Unfortunately, there is no Autism College – and even the best colleges for students with Autism are not always able to comprehensively support all of the domains necessary for success. Colleges with autism support programs must not only address a student’s academic needs, but also their social engagement, independent living skills, and vocational skills. Asperger’s and college success can go hand in hand, as long as the impact of these characteristics on a student’s learning and living environment are carefully, intentionally, and explicitly addressed.
Succeeding in college with a learning differences, ASD, PDD-NOS, & NLD or NVLD can be challenging. Thus, Mansfield Hall’s comprehensive transition programs for students with autism and other related disabilities address the holistic needs for our students and individualizes student plans based on evidence-based practices. Mansfield Hall carefully evaluates and interprets information from assessments, interviews, and other helpful diagnostic tools to tailor the program to fit each student’s unique needs.
Please Note: With the publication of the DSM-V in 2013, as well as the DSM-V-TR (Text Revised) version released in 2022, Asperger’s is no longer recognized a formal diagnosis, and the traits previously associated with Asperger’s are now generally understood to be covered by the Autism/ASD-I criteria. While some members of our student community may still identify with Asperger’s Syndrome, Asperger’s, or Aspergers – or even as “Aspie” – we refer only Autism or ASD, as that is the current diagnostic neurodiverse nomenclature.
A Few Tips to Help Students Succeed in College with PDD-NOS , NLD, or NVLD
Succeeding in college with a diagnosis of PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified), NLD (Nonverbal Learning Disorder), or NVLD (Nonverbal Learning Disability) can be challenging, but it is possible with the right support and accommodations. Here are a few tips that may be helpful:
It’s important to remember that everyone with a learning difference – including neurodiversity, ASD, ADHD, PDD-NOS, NLD, or NVLD is different and that accommodations and strategies that work for one person may not work for another. It may take some time to figure out what works best for you, but with determination and support, you can succeed in college.
Feeling overwhelmed in college- but not sure why? you’re not alone.
The key isn’t just “pushing through”, it’s learning to recognize what’s happening before you hit that wall, and having systems to reset.
That might look like:
• stepping outside for a walk
• box breathing between classes
• putting on a guided meditation
• reaching out to someone you trust
Small supports = big difference over time.
At Mansfield Hall, we help students build the awareness and tools to regulate, recharge, and navigate college in a way that actually works for them.
What’s one thing that helps you reset when you’re overwhelmed?
#CollegeLife #StudentMentalHealth #ExecutiveFunction #StressManagement
Excellent week across the board!
People Ops team member Jo touched down in Madison, receiving a warm welcome with coffee and a trip to see the Capitol building. VP of Program Ops Hayley grounded herself and took in the beauty of the Statehouse. Pancakes were served, and Burlington student Nikhil took the stage to perform with his choir.
A great week to zoom out and back in- and reflect on all the things we have to be grateful for!
#collegesupport #neurodiversity #worklifebalance
College can be energizing… and draining.
If you’ve ever felt socially exhausted, you’re not alone.
Understanding your limits (and what helps you recharge) can make all the difference.
#CollegeStudents #Neurodiversity #StudentWellbeing
Hangin` in there until spring weather kicks in!
This week at Mansfield Hall our Eugene, OR students did some rock climbing, Burlington, VT connections students took an outing to the bowling alley/arcade, while others took a trip to a local sugar house to learn about all things maple syrup. Students in Madison, WI continued their endeavors to learn about all things maintenance...and they make it look fun!
Happy Friday Friends- enjoy the weekend.
Mansfield Hall had the joy of hosting some professionals at our Madison, WI location recently, which included a student panel.
One of the questions asked was: What do you like about Mansfield Hall?
The answer: how inclusive it is.
No one gets to choose the brain they have, but we do get to choose the world we create. We choose to accept, celebrate, and work toward a world that’s more inclusive of every brain and the incredible things they can do.
Happy World Autism Awareness Day. We see you, and we celebrate you for all that you are and all that you can be!
❤️MH
#autismawareness #neurodiversity #collegesupport
Sensory overload happens when your brain receives more sensory input than it can comfortably process.
Our nervous systems are constantly taking in information, but when there’s too much coming in (or it’s coming too fast) our systems can become overwhelmed.
We get it, and it can be managed with small, intentional supports like reducing input, creating predictable routines, and building in quiet recovery time.
