A group of neurodevelopmental abnormalities known as learning disabilities can seriously impair an individual’s capacity to pick up new skills. This can make it difficult for the individual to do activities like talk, read, write, pay attention, comprehend information, recall things, do math calculations, or coordinate motions.
Types of Learning Disabilities
The term “learning disability” is general and covers a wide range of specific learning impairments, such as:
Dyslexia: At 80% of all cases of learning disabilities, dyslexia is the most prevalent type of learning disability. Difficulties in speaking, reading, writing, or comprehending words are the hallmarks of this language-processing disease. This may result in problems with grammar, reading comprehension, and other language abilities as well as a reduced rate of vocabulary growth.
Dysgraphia: Dysgraphia sufferers may struggle to write because of problems with vocabulary, spelling, grammar, critical thinking, and memory. Poor handwriting is a defining feature of this disorder, since the individual may have difficulty with motor planning, spatial awareness, and letter spacing. It might be challenging for someone with dysgraphia to write and think at the same time.
Diagnosis and Assessment
Once a child is enrolled in school, learning problems are usually suspected by caregivers and educators. A specialist will need to do more evaluations and testing on your child in order to diagnose them. The approach will involve your child’s pediatrician as well as a school psychologist or child psychologist.
It is significant to remember that a psychologist diagnoses a learning issue. If the school determines that your kid has a learning-specific disability, they may proceed to conduct an assessment and create a customized learning plan. A legal identification under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and a psychological diagnostic follow somewhat distinct procedures. However, they usually entail a combination of:
- Observations.
- Interviews.
- Assessments.
- Medical and family history.
- School reports.
How are learning disabilities managed?
Students with learning disabilities require alternative or extra support when studying. The kind and degree of the learning disability determine what kind of assistance—or management—is required. To identify your child’s ideal learning problem plan, you and they may consult with many professionals. This group could consist of:
- Educators.
- Educational remediation specialists.
- Psychologists.
- Special education services.
- Healthcare providers, like occupational and physical therapists.