In response to the increasing need within Al-Amari Refugee Camp and neighboring areas, the Palestinian Association for Care and Development established a specialized Learning Difficulties Treatment Unit in 2004, becoming one of the first community-based services of its kind to offer support at low costs.

The creation of this unit was driven by the noticeable rise in the number of children struggling with learning difficulties—such as challenges in reading, writing, comprehension, and attention—and the high cost of such treatment in the private sector, which posed a burden on low-income families.

Increased Demand During and After the COVID-19 Pandemic

With the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and prolonged school closures, many children experienced academic delays and worsening learning difficulties. This significantly increased the need for targeted educational and rehabilitative interventions, especially for children who had limited access to remote learning.

Services Provided by the Unit

• Comprehensive diagnostic assessments using standardized tools.
• Individual and group therapy sessions to strengthen academic and language skills.
• Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) tailored to each child’s needs.
• Psychosocial support boosts motivation and self-confidence.

Parental and Teacher Training

Recognizing the essential role of both families and schools, the association has implemented training programs and workshops, including:

• Awareness and training sessions for parents, helping them better support their children at home.
• Capacity-building workshops for teachers in Al-Amari camp schools on early detection and adaptive teaching methods.
• Educational materials and guides to facilitate home-school coordination.

Impact of the Unit on Children and the Community

• Improved academic performance for children with learning difficulties.
• Reduced dropout rates in local schools.
• Enhanced inclusion and participation of children in school and social life.
• Reduced psychological pressure on families.
• Raised community awareness about learning difficulties and how to address them.

Unit Mission Statement

We strive to provide every child with a real opportunity to learn by creating an inclusive, supportive, and specialized environment that respects individual differences and builds on each child’s strengths—free from marginalization or exclusion.