Is your child not performing well in school? Before you jump into any conclusion involving his attitude toward learning, behavior in class, or the friends that surround him in school, you might want to check if he is suffering from a learning disability or disorder. We hear the words "dyslexia," "dyscalculia," "dysgraphia," and many more being thrown around TV shows and magazine articles, but we do not fully understand what they mean and how they could limit our...
more »Is your child not performing well in school? Before you jump into any conclusion involving his attitude toward learning, behavior in class, or the friends that surround him in school, you might want to check if he is suffering from a learning disability or disorder. We hear the words "dyslexia," "dyscalculia," "dysgraphia," and many more being thrown around TV shows and magazine articles, but we do not fully understand what they mean and how they could limit our children’s futures.
Learning disabilities and disorders can be different from one child to another. For example, a child may have a hard time learning math, while another child can have problems with reading and spelling words. And there are children who cannot fully comprehend what is being said to them through verbal communication. Therefore, identifying which child has a learning disability can be a bit difficult for many - but there are common signs and symptoms of a possible learning disorder. These signs and symptoms can include problems with pronouncing words and finding the right word to express his thoughts and feelings; difficulty with learning the different colors, the alphabet, numbers, shapes, and the days of the week; problems with following explicit directions; difficulty with controlling crayons or scissors; problems with using buttons, snaps, and zippers; and having a hard time learning how to tie shoes. These are often observed in preschool-age children who have learning disabilities.
Older children can be victims of learning disabilities as well. Typically, these disorders manifest in fifth to eighth graders as problems with reading, writing, and handwriting; poor organizational and math skills, or trouble with following classroom instructions and discussions. If you suspect that your child has difficulties with learning, do not delay finding support or special assistance. The earlier you try to help the child with his learning problems, the better his chances for a fuller and a more normal life.
There are also other disorders that can make learning difficult for a child. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (commonly known as ADHD), can severely disrupt learning. Children afflicted with this condition have problems staying focused, following instructions closely, and completing the tasks assigned to them. Autism can also be a problem, thanks to the pervasive and developmental nature of the disorder. Students who have autism spectrum disorders often have trouble communicating with their peers, making friends, and even reading body language and maintaining eye contact.
It is important that parents know the developmental milestones of children in order to identify learning disabilities and disorders early. Consult with your pediatrician or with a trusted educational professional regarding these milestones, as the early detection can make a big difference in a learning-disabled child's life.
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