I Can't Do This But I CAN Do That

HBO, 2010

SYNOPSIS

“I used to really hate reading, because I didn’t know how to, and it just became a big pain,” says nine-year-old Abby, who is among the 2.6 million public school children who have learning differences. “They said I was stupid, so I thought I was stupid.”

Abby is one of eight students featured in I Can't Do This But I Can Do That, which spotlights the creativity and talent that is often overlooked when students with learning differences are written off as less capable, or not given the help they need to succeed. The film encourages students to redefine themselves, and families and teachers to look beyond labels. As 12-year-old John says, “It’s not a learning disorder, it’s a learning difference. If people think you have a disorder, their expectations drop tremendously. I can do better than that.”

I Can't Do This But I Can Do That: A Film For Families About Learning Differences is an inspiring account of children with LDs who have been able to learn what seemed impossible -  and in the process, discovered unsuspected strengths and talents in the arts and in physically challenging sports. With enormous resolve and tenacity and the help of dedicated parents and teachers, they are able to use their strengths to overcome the cognitive and emotional challenges that used to hold them back.

TRAILER