Understood.org, a leading non-profit organization supporting the 70 million people in the U.S. who have learning and thinking differences, such as ADHD and dyslexia, has launched Through My Eyes. This free, first-of-its-kind, interactive experience lets people step into the world of kids with ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia. Through personal stories and expert-created resources, Through My Eyes helps shift perspectives to increase understanding and advocacy among adults and kids.
The launch of Through My Eyes is supported by Understood.org’s “See Differently, Act Differently” campaign. This campaign encourages parents and educators to move beyond assumptions and become stronger advocates for children who learn and think differently.
Understood’s recent research found that over 40 percent of parents don’t know that learning and thinking differences are caused by biological variations in the brain. Instead, many mistakenly attribute these differences to how a child is raised, environmental factors, or excessive screen time. This stigma can keep kids from getting the support they need.
“Kids with learning and thinking differences are often misunderstood because the underlying causes of their challenges are largely invisible. People tend to focus on behaviors, like emotional outbursts, rather than understanding the root cause and where support is needed,” says Dr. Andrew Kahn, licensed psychologist and associate director of behavior change and expertise at Understood.org. “Whether it’s a teacher, relative, coach, or friend, Through My Eyes gives the people in a child’s life the insight they need to become stronger allies.”
Immersive Storytelling Brings Kids’ Real Experiences to Life
Through My Eyes pairs kids’ real stories about navigating their learning and thinking differences with credible guidance for parents and teachers.
- 9 documentary-style videos: Kids with ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia share an honest look at their daily life at home, school, and other activities.
- 6 gamified simulations: Users play games (starring the kids from the videos!) where they try to navigate everyday scenarios. Along the way, they’re presented with bonuses, like accommodations and support. And they face obstacles that are unique to the kids’ individual experiences with ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia.
- 16 expert-created resources: Understood.org experts developed complementary resources, including self-advocacy packs for kids, inclusive lesson plans for teachers, and tips for talking with a co-parent.
Through My Eyes is available at no cost on mobile, tablet, and desktop, including Chromebooks for classroom use. It doesn’t require any special technology.
“Understood is focused on closing the gaps in support and understanding for families living with learning and thinking differences. Through My Eyes is the latest example of how we’re combining our expertise with technology to make a real impact at scale—helping more people thrive,” says Nathan Friedman, co-president and chief marketing officer at Understood.org.
An Expert-Designed and Community-Tested Platform
Through My Eyes was made possible through a grant awarded by Oak Foundation and support from InnovateEDU and Split This Rock. Platform simulations were designed and developed by Make Me Pulse.
To ensure accuracy and usefulness, Understood collaborated with internal and external partners, including a panel of core experts with backgrounds in psychology, equity research, special education, and school leadership. The interactive platform was reviewed by 13 mission-aligned partners: American Academy of Pediatrics, Barbara Bush Foundation for Family Literacy, CAST, CHADD, Digital Promise, Diverse Learners Cooperative, Equal Opportunity Schools, Erika’s Lighthouse, First Book, The Jed Foundation, Kessler Foundation, Learning Heroes, and Social Cipher.
About Understood.org
Understood is a non-profit focused on shaping the world for difference. We raise awareness of the challenges, skills, and strengths of people who learn and think differently. Our resources help people navigate challenges, gain confidence, and find support and community so they can thrive. Together, we can build a world where everyone can reach their full potential. Understood is a 501(c)(3) organization headquartered in New York. For more information, to donate, or to partner, visit u.org/media and follow us @UnderstoodOrg.
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