May 25, 2023 - Introducing Peter Bergen

Hi, my name’s Peter. I’m a 16-year-old currently attending a STEM-focused high school and I’m very interested in raising awareness about the learning differences many people around my age (and much younger) deal with on a daily basis. I’m excited to be able to work with NYC Kids Project to spread awareness on this issue. As someone with ADHD, and who has a younger brother with Dyslexia, I know firsthand how said learning differences can change peoples’ lives and provide new challenges. For me personally, I tend to have a harder time concentrating on tests and homework assignments, among other things. Understanding how things like my ADHD affect the lives of people like me is an important first step in learning how to be more inclusive and understanding.

I’ve now introduced myself and the issue I’m working to spread awareness of - but how can people like you, who may or may not have a learning difference, help? As I said before, it’s important to know how various learning differences can impact people on a daily basis - but it’s also equally as important for those who don’t have learning differences to understand that people like me are still every bit as intelligent and sensitive as everyone else. Unfortunately, this is a sentiment that seems to be lost among many people today. Often, when kids need extra time on tests, or a special teacher to cater to their specific skill set, they’re seen as “less capable.” Instead, realize that learning differently doesn’t mean being less capable, and act accordingly. Treating everyone equally is a great first step.