What are the pros and cons of telling a child about their special needs/learning difference?

Not all learning differences are obvious and many are a secondary issue. And often times they are misjudged. There are many different conditions, like spina bifida occulta, that present these secondary issues, such as learning, behavioral and social challenges. Knowing many people with children that struggle with these and many other challenges, and are telling the children the diagnosis – and not telling them, has me thinking. Which is the better route for the child.

I for one think educating children in an empowering but factual manner will help them to feel less abnormal and more like it is just a part of who they are (a wonderful part of who they are). In addition I feel that growing up and being exposed to the worlds prejudices, in turn absorbing them then finding out that they are one of these people looked down upon can be dangerous. Where as if they grow to except (embrace) themselves from a young age they might come to feel more sorry for the ignorance of others and not themselves.

So my question is: Which of the two options will draw out the child’s potential and bring about the best quality of life possible? If you happen upon this post please leave a comment. I am in a position of guidance and endless resource to a person very dear to me and would like to think beyond my experiences and gain a well rounded view before I step into this roll.

~dyslexicwhisperer