What is a learning disability?
Federal law states that a learning disability (LD) is a permanent neurological
disorder that may be subtle to severe. It limits the brain’s ability to store,
process and produce information and affects a person’s ability to speak,
listen, read, write or do math. A child with a learning disability has average
to above average intelligence, but he or she falls below his or her academic
potential to a significant degree. The current estimates indicate that children
with learning disabilities make up 15 percent of the school-age population.
What are the risks factors?
The most common risk factor is family history. Less common risk factors include
poor nutrition, severe head injuries, child abuse and pregnancy-related factors.
(National Center for Learning Disabilities)
Treatment for cancer or leukemia, infections of the central nervous system,
or lead poisoning can also increase the risk for learning disabilities.
What factors are not considered risk factors?
Blindness, visual problems, deafness, physical or motor handicaps do not cause
learning disabilities. Nor do autism, mental retardation or a low intelligence
quotient (I.Q.). Learning problems may be present in these conditions, but they
are not considered true learning disabilities. Environmental, cultural or
economic disadvantages do not cause learning disabilities but may be present
with learning disabilities. Similarly, behavioral disorders or emotional
disturbances may also be present with learning disabilities.
What other problems might children with learning disabilities have?
About 20 percent of children with learning disabilities also have attention
deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Children with learning disabilities may
become frustrated, lose interest in school and avoid challenges. They may have
low self-esteem and emotional problems, such as withdrawal, anxiety, depression
or aggression. It is also common for children with learning disabilities to have
social problems. Children with undiagnosed learning disabilities can become
angry and frustrated. These feelings may lead to emotional problems.
What are the signs of learning disabilities?
The following signs may signal that a child has a learning disability:
- Dislike of reading
- Poor handwriting
- Difficulty with math
- Difficulty putting information in
order
- Memory problems
- Trouble with coordination
- Difficulty with language such as
following directions, remembering words, rhyming, and expressing oneself
What is dyslexia?
Dyslexia is one of the most common forms of learning disability. Dyslexia is a
language-based disorder that affects reading, writing, spelling and often
handwriting. Although letter or word reversals may be a concern for children
with dyslexia, they are not the primary markers for dyslexia.