What Are Learning Differences And Learning Disabilities?
Everyone learns differently; we each have strengths and areas of difficulty. Learning differences may cause difficulties with writing, reading or math. Difficulties in these subjects can affect a child’s learning, academic performance, and self-esteem. A Learning Disability is a neurodevelopmental disorder that causes significant learning differences. A child is considered to have a Learning Disability when their school performance does not match their cognitive and intellectual abilities. There are multiple types of learning disabilities including: Auditory Processing Disorder, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia, and Dysgraphia. Some cases of learning differences are more severe than others.
What Can You Look For As A Parent?
A child with Dyslexia may read slowly or inaccurately, or have trouble understanding what they are reading. They might also have trouble with grammar or spelling.
A child with Dyscalculia may struggle with numbers or mathematical reasoning.
A child with Dysgraphia may struggle with handwriting, grammar, or punctuation.
A child with Central Auditory Processing Disorder may be distracted or upset by loud environments or have trouble following instructions.
A parent or teacher might notice that the child struggles significantly in school, or with homework despite their effort and intelligence. A child with learning differences may have behavioral or attentional difficulties at school, and they may dislike or avoid school or relevant activities with which they struggle.
What Can You Do If There Is A Concern?
Talk to your child’s teacher to see if they have noticed a pattern or to rule out other causes for your child struggling in school. Speak to your child’s pediatrician about what you and your child’s teacher noticed. The pediatrician can help to rule out medical conditions or problems that might cause your child’s learning difficulties.
