Learning Disabilities and Differences

Children who learn and think differently can succeed in school, work, and relationships. Often, they can benefit from help that uses their strengths and targets any areas of need.

 

What is a learning disability (LD)?

Learning disability is a term used to describe a range of learning and thinking differences. These differences can affect the way the brain takes in, uses, stores, and sends out information.

Some children have specific learning disabilities (also known as LDs), such as reading or math disabilities. Others may have conditions that affect learning like attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or hearing loss. Many children with learning differences and difficulties can have more than one learning disability or condition that affects learning.

 

What causes learning difficulties?

There are many reasons why a child may have difficulties learning. The causes aren't always known, but in many cases children have a parent or relative with the same or similar learning and thinking differences and difficulties. Other risk factors include low birth weight and prematurity, or an injury or illness during childhood (for example, head injury, lead poisoning or a childhood illness like meningitis).

Regardless of the cause of learning difficulties, the first step is to recognize the child is struggling and to discuss concerns with the child's parents, teachers, and doctor. Together, you can find out what is contributing to the difficulties and make sure the child gets any help needed.

 

How do I know if a child has learning differences and difficulties?

Learning and thinking differences aren't always obvious, but there are some signs that could mean a child needs help. Keep in mind that children develop and learn at different rates. Talk with the child's parents and teacher and parents should let the child's doctor know if your child shows any of the following signs.

Preschool children may have:

• Delays in language development. By 2½ years of age, your preschool-age child should be able to talk in phrases or short sentences.
• Trouble with speech. By 3 years of age, your child should speak well enough so that adults can understand most of what they say.
• Trouble learning colors, shapes, letters and numbers.
• Trouble rhyming words.
• Trouble with coordination. By 5 years of age, your child should be able to button clothing, use scissors, and hop. They should be able to copy a circle, square, or triangle.
• Short attention spans. Between 3 to 5 years of age, your child should be able to sit still and listen to a short story. As your child gets older, they should be able to pay attention for a longer time.
• Frustration or anger when trying to learn.

School-aged children and teens may find it difficult to:

• Follow directions.
• Get and stay organized at home and school.
• Understand verbal directions.
• Learn facts and remember information.
• Read, spell or sound out words.
• Write clearly (may have poor handwriting).
• Do math calculations or word problems.
• Focus on and finish schoolwork.
• Explain information clearly with speech or in writing.

 

Four ways parents can help children who learn and think differently

• Focus on strengths. All children have things they do well and things that are difficult for them. Find your child's strengths and help them learn to use them. Your child might be good at math, music or sports. They could be skilled at art, working with tools or caring for animals. Be sure to praise your child often when they do well or succeeds at a task.
• Develop social and emotional skills. Learning differences combined with the challenges of growing up can make your child sad, angry or withdrawn. Help your child by providing love and support while acknowledging that learning is hard because their brain learns in a different way. Try to find clubs, teams, and other activities that focus on friendship and fun. These activities should also build confidence. And remember, competition isn't just about winning.
• Use resources & support groups to help you learn more about parenting a child with learning difficulties. Learning and thinking differences are common. You and your child are not alone in this journey.
• Plan for the future. Many parents whose child learns and thinks differently worry about the future. Help your child plan for adulthood by encouraging them to consider their strengths and interests in education and career choices. Remind them that learning differently isn't tied to how smart they are. In fact, many people with learning difficulties are very bright and grow up to be highly successful at what they do.

 

For more information, read AAP’s blog on Learning Disabilities & Differences: What Parents Need to Know.