More than 4 million children in the United States are affected by a learning disability, with many of them receiving specialized educational services from their local school district. If you suspect that your child may be experiencing difficulty learning, it is important to receive an accurate diagnosis so that they may begin receiving early interventional services and educational support. We’ve compiled a quick guide to some of the most common signs of learning disabilities below.
What are some signs of learning disabilities?
While there are many different signs that your child may be struggling with a learning disability, here are some of the most common that parents should watch out for:
- Difficulty with time management
- Difficulty staying on-task
- Difficulty with organization
- Procrastination
- Transposing words or letters when reading or writing
- Poor memory
- Trouble staying focused in school
- Impulsiveness
- Frequently getting in trouble at school
- Becoming easily distracted
- Hyperactivity
- Trouble sleeping, or sleeping too much
- Difficulty expressing themselves
- Trouble learning new words or concepts
- Trouble following directions
- Poor spelling
- Speech delays
- Performing below grade level
- A strong dislike of school
- Slow vocabulary growth
- Poor handwriting
- Trouble understanding numbers
- Trouble telling time
- Slow to complete schoolwork
- Resistance to doing homework
- Poor coordination
- Frequently losing personal items
- Loss of motivation
Children experiencing the effects of a learning disability may also act out in school or suffer from mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.
How can parents identify and treat a learning disability?
While the presence of several signs from the list above is a good indicator that your child may indeed be living with a learning disability, a definitive diagnosis can only be made by a professional. An accurate diagnosis is needed in order to qualify for any interventional programs and assist with the creation of individualized educational plans for your child.
It is important to remember that the presence of a learning disability does not indicate low intelligence, but rather, is the result of an information-processing problem. These disabilities most commonly affect academic performance, self-esteem, memory, and attention in kids and adults alike. Thankfully, the right early intervention can help set your child up for success throughout their entire lives.
A combination of academic support, tutoring, classroom accommodations, individualized education programs (IEPs), therapy, holistic treatments, and even medication can assist kids with improving their skills, academic performance, and self-esteem.
If you think your child may be exhibiting signs of a learning disability, give us a call today to set up a consultation with your local pediatricians in Arvada.