Learning Disabilities

Learning Disabilities are a group of neurological disorders that affect the brain's ability to receive, process, store, and respond to information. They can interfere with skills such as reading, writing, and math, and can also affect other areas such as memory, attention, and organization.

Definition

Learning disabilities are not a problem with intelligence or motivation. Kids with learning disabilities aren't lazy or dumb. In fact, most are just as smart as everyone else. Their brains are simply wired differently. This difference affects how they receive and process information.

Types of Learning Disabilities

There are several types of learning disabilities, including:

• Dyslexia: This is a language-based disability in which a person has trouble understanding written words. It may also be referred to as reading disability or reading disorder.

• Dyscalculia: This is a mathematical disability in which a person has a difficult time solving arithmetic problems and grasping math concepts.

• Dysgraphia: This is a writing disability in which a person finds it hard to form letters or write within a defined space.

• Auditory and Visual Processing Disorders: These are sensory disabilities in which a person has difficulty understanding language despite normal hearing and vision.

• Nonverbal Learning Disabilities: This is a neurological disorder which originates in the right hemisphere of the brain, causing problems with visual-spatial, intuitive, organizational, evaluative and holistic processing functions.

Causes

The exact cause of learning disabilities is not known, but they are believed to occur due to differences in the way a person's brain works and how it processes information. Children with learning disabilities are not "dumb" or "lazy." In fact, they usually have average or above average intelligence.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a learning disability can be difficult. There is no single test that can diagnose it. Instead, a professional will take a comprehensive approach, including observing the child and conducting interviews with parents and teachers. They will also use specially designed tests to identify a learning disability.

Treatment

While there is no cure for learning disabilities, there are many strategies and resources to help children with learning disabilities succeed in school and in life. This can include extra help from teachers, therapy, and sometimes medication.

See Also

• Special Education
• Individualized Education Program
• Learning Disability Evaluation

Learning Disabilities Resources
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