Learning disabilities
Learning disabilities are a class of disorders that affect the brain's ability to learn and process information. They may be caused by a variety of factors, including Central Nervous System Dysfunction (CNS), genetics, and culture. In some cases, learning disabilities can co-exist with other handicapping conditions, such as intellectual disability and social or emotional disturbance. In other cases, learning disabilities are entirely separate from these other conditions.
Signs of a learning disability
If your child struggles to read and write, or struggles with math, he or she may have a learning disability. This condition affects a person's ability to learn, so it can impact everyday life and relationships. Signs of a learning disability can be subtle, or they may be obvious.
Prevalence of learning disabilities
Learning disabilities are incredibly common, affecting one out of five people in the United States. While these children are usually quite intelligent, they have problems processing information. The impairments are typically related to language, reading, math, or social interaction. Symptoms often manifest themselves in the preschool years. While each child's symptoms may differ, the most common symptoms can be found in preschoolers.
Identifying learning disabilities
Many children with learning disabilities struggle in school. This makes it difficult for them to perform well, but there are several signs that can be noticed by parents. Early detection can help children with these disabilities improve their skills and lead productive lives. If you suspect your child of having a learning disability, you should seek the services of a qualified psychologist or learn about the available treatment options.
Early detection and concerns
Learning disabilities often begin early in life, and parents should be concerned about their child's development. Some signs may manifest themselves as a difficult time adjusting to school, trouble following simple directions, or difficulties with spelling or math. Other symptoms of a learning disability include difficulty understanding others and struggling to speak or communicate out loud.
Types of learning disabilities
Different learning disabilities can affect a person differently. For example, dyslexia may lead to difficulty reading and writing, while attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) causes difficulty controlling impulse and focus. Other learning disabilities may make it difficult to understand or process auditory information. For more information on different types of learning disabilities, visit LD Online.
Effects of learning disabilities
Learning disabilities can also affect motor skills, such as the ability to write and understand written or spoken language. They may also have problems with interpreting and understanding visual information. Individuals with these types of disabilities may have trouble paying attention, controlling their behavior, or performing complex math calculations. Oftentimes, their learning disabilities will interfere with their ability to interact with family and friends.
Visual processing disabilities
Some individuals with visual processing disabilities have difficulties in recognizing different objects, such as shapes or colors. In addition, they have problems identifying patterns. They may also have difficulty with mental math and can't remember basic math facts. They may also have problems aligning digits, completing arithmetic procedures in the wrong order, or keeping track of their turn or score.
Common learning disabilities
The most common learning disabilities are dyslexia and dysgraphia. These learning disabilities can make it difficult to read and write. However, there are many other types of learning disabilities that can affect your child. A child with dyslexia will have problems with reading, writing, and math concepts, while a child with dyscalculia will have trouble with counting money, telling time, and measuring things.
Treatment options for a child with a learning disability
There are a number of treatment options for a child with a learning disorder. It is the responsibility of public schools to screen children for learning issues and provide appropriate treatments when necessary. Parents should contact their child's school to request an evaluation. This evaluation will identify any learning disorders your child has, as well as his or her strengths and weaknesses. It will also help determine the best placement for your child in school. In addition, your child may qualify for protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Civil Rights Act.
Special education services can help your child develop organizational and study skills. A speech-language therapist can also help your child learn how to effectively write. Some children may need medication to help them focus or concentrate. If your child is suffering from attention-deficit disorder, a doctor may prescribe a specific drug or treatment to help improve your child's ability to concentrate in school. Other alternative treatments may include dietary changes and supplements, eye exercises, neurofeedback and technological devices.
In addition to learning disabilities, children with learning problems can also experience emotional difficulties, such as low self-esteem and frustration. Counselors will help your child to understand these feelings and develop coping mechanisms to overcome them. They can also help your child to develop relationships with other kids. Moreover, children with learning disabilities may also be diagnosed with other conditions like ADHD, which require treatment as well.
