The signs of a learning disability can vary from person to person and can depend on different factors. For example, the signs of a learning disability can look different in a 5 year old versus a 12 year old. There are also many different types of learning disabilities. With many factors to consider, it is important to remember that every child is unique in their growth and development.
What is a Learning Disability?
A learning disability is a neurological condition that affects how the brain functions. Challenges caused by a learning disability are not representative of an individual’s intelligence but rather a result of the brain being “wired” in a distinctive way. Children with learning disabilities are often just as smart (or smarter) than their peers, they just have a unique way of learning and processing information.
Common Signs of a Learning Disability:
- Problems with reading and/or writing
- Problems with math
- Trouble with comprehension
- Problems with paying attention
- Poor memory
- Difficulty staying organized
- Difficulty with following directions
- Impulsiveness, distractibility, restlessness
- Trouble with sequencing
- Difficulty with listening
Behaviors and Symptoms associated with a Learning Disability:
- Acting without planning or forethought
- Acting out in school or other social situations
- Difficulty focusing due to distractibility
- Problems with performance in school (performance can vary from day to day)
- Having a challenging time dealing with schedule changes
- Difficulty with expressing thoughts
- Difficulty with pronouncing words correctly
- Using substandard speaking skills (using short and simple phrases, leaving out words, etc.)
- Inappropriate response to certain situations
- Difficult to discipline
- Difficulty with remembering and recalling information
- Delayed speech development
Common Learning Disabilities
- Dyslexia
- Dyscalculia
- Dysgraphia
- Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders
- Nonverbal Learning Disabilities
What is Dyslexia?
Dyslexia is a learning disability that affects areas of the brain that process language. A child with dyslexia has difficulty with reading, writing, spelling, and speaking.
What is Dyscalculia?
Dyscalculia is a math-based learning disability that affects areas of the brain that process numbers. A child with dyscalculia has difficulty with math concepts of all levels.
What is Dysgraphia?
Dysgraphia is a learning disability that affects areas of the brain that process writing. A child with dysgraphia has difficulty with forming letters, spelling, word spacing, and putting thoughts on paper.
What is an Auditory and Visual Processing Disorder?
Auditory and visual processing disorders are learning disabilities that affect areas of the brain that process language. A child with auditory and visual processing disorders has difficulty recognizing and interpreting information taken in through the senses despite normal hearing and vision.
What is a Nonverbal Learning Disability?
Nonverbal learning disabilities are learning disabilities that affect areas of the brain that process nonverbal stimuli. A child with a nonverbal learning disability has difficulty with recognizing and translating facial expressions, tone of voice, and other nonverbal cues into meaningful information.