Understanding a non-verbal learning disorder

After Gov. Tim Walz accepted his vice-presidential nomination, his 17-year-old son Gus's appearance at the Democratic National Convention has sparked more discussions about non-verbal learning disorders. Clinical neuropsychologist Dr. Judy Ho explains what a non-verbal learning disorder is and how it differs from more familiar conditions like ADHD and dyslexia.

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#TimWalz #Nonverbal #LearningDisorder

[CloverHikes]

Let’s be clear that Gus Walz’s expression of love and pride for his dad is perfectly appropriate for anyone, even those without learning disabilities.

[DecolonialRhetoric]

I love that Gus expressed his love of and pride for his father. Very heartwarming. More young men should be applauded for showing their emotions rather than criticized, regardless of disabilities.

[msjmoves]

I have the same disorder as Gus Walz. I was diagnosed as an adult; which made me cry from relief because I no longer felt like a moral failure. Unfortunately, it’s not recognized in the DSM-V, which means accommodations are difficult because you don’t meet the requirements for a 504. Normally, it is diagnosed in conjunction with another disorder (known as a co-morbid diagnosis for my non-psych brothers and sisters), which does meet the requirements for accommodations.

I am so grateful for this wonderful young man and his wonderful family. I hope that others can learn and find more understanding.

[YoYo_Ma]

Jeez. Even if the kid was "typical, or normal"...he expressed a normal emotion at having his dad become the nominee for VP.
It speaks to the kind of family the Walz' are. Not groomed for politics. Just ordinary people experiencing something extraordinary.

[bargerkenneth]

I think it would be neat if we left Gus alone now, at least until we know how he feels about being the focus of all this attention. And while we're at it, what if a kid without a diagnosis cried in joy and pride for their parent? Is that politics? Let kids be kids. And let humans feel emotions.

[maddietillem]

I have NVLD and am so happy that we are finally getting some media representation. It's so tiring to have to explain my disorder to every teacher, boss, and even school disability service that I come into contact with. I'm especially glad that this doctor mentioned the strengths that people with NVLD have in addition to our weaknesses.

[ANMbornagain]

He is too sweet! We are rooting for you and your family Gus!

[alphabrainwave]

I teach 5th grade in mixed ability classes, and I can tell you that when they feel welcome and motivated, kids with learning disorders are some of the hardest working and most well-adapted students you'll ever see. They often find clever ways to work around their challenges, and they are able to develop complex routines and habits to help them perform tasks that others might find simple. And if they have teachers that can help them build these adaptive learning skills, they can accomplish some amazing things. I hope the Walz family can bring awareness to the challenges and triumphs of people with learning disabilities when Harris and Walz win in November.

[tonysweet]

Any Dad would, or rather SHOULD, be proud to be loved by their son the way Gus loves his Dad. Gov Walz is a very blessed man.

[alyda]

Thank you Gus. You brought attention to your disability. I'm sure many people will receive help because of YOU ! We love you Gus, from the Navajo Nation Gallup, New Mexico
Harris/Walz 2024 VOTE VOTE VOTE🇺🇲💙🇺🇲💙🇺🇲💙

[JudyHoPhD]

So glad to have this opportunity to shed light on NVLD. It's such a misunderstood learning difference. Many people with NVLD struggle with symptoms that mimic other conditions, so it can take a while to get to the right diagnosis and treatment to help. In the meantime, they feel alone and their self-esteem suffers. Thanks NBC News for taking the time to highlight this important topic.

[sectionalsofa]

I'm a retied teacher of special needs students so I'm especially glad that this is being addressed. Gus seems like a wonderful young man. Leave it to MAGA to ridicule the disabled. Won't be the first time.

[darkerknight]

It’s a parent’s dream to have their kid that hyped over you.

[lovesmusic]

Nobody should be mocking anybody’s teenage child, period! It doesn’t matter that Gus has a diagnosis that was flat out wrong and cruel. Especially from a nationally known person with a large following who uses it to bully a child.

[elspethfougere]

Lovely to see such informative and respectful coverage of this topic. Thank you

[wendybutler]

May this proud of his dad young man bring awareness and enlightenment.

[WatrfrontTampa]

Gus made me cry ! Wow how powerful ! My brother was handicapped with heart and lungs issues, and could never participate in physical activities. He died on the operating table during heart surgery, and it changed my life because I was only 13 at the time. His life inspired me to write a novel about planet earth's future and how kids should be treated with dignity and respect! I finished college for a second time, and am writing this novel now. This kid is SO PROUD of his dad - what a GIFT for Tim and his wife. This was meant to happen ---- people can see now why Tim is the nominee for Vice President - he is so relatable and his family is so down to earth. GO HARRIS AND TIM !! Trump on the other hand told his nephew to let his disabled son die and then move to Florida ! Ann Coulter is just UGLY inside and out. Crispi does not belong in America period!

[sherryobar]

Love How Enthusiastic Gus Was!
Harris/Walz 2024

[AndeThompson-exsv]

Thanks, for educating us! Gus melted my heart!
Harris-Walz 2024!💙🇺🇸💙

[AprilB-vyuq]

The only thing that needs to be understood is a son's love for his father.