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Understanding Learning Disabilities
Understanding learning disabilities: Becoming educated
Understanding learning disabilities means becoming better educated. A learning disability affects the way children of average to above average intelligence receive, process, or express information and lasts throughout life. It impacts their ability to learn the basic skills like reading, writing or math. The Coordinated Campaign for Learning Disabilities (CCLD), a coalition of national organizations within the learning disabilities community, defines a learning disability as “a neurobiological disorder in which a person's brain works or is structured differently.” Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders — Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), used by psychologists and medical doctors, doesn't list "learning disability," but describes disorders in reading, mathematics, and written expression. Academic achievement, as measured by standardized tests, must be substantially below expectations for the child's chronological age, intelligence, and age-appropriate education.
Understanding learning disabilities: What to look for
Understanding learning disabilities involves patience and commitment. Learning disabilities are not the same as mental retardation, autism, hearing or visual impairment, physical disabilities, emotional disorders, or the normal process of learning a second language. Learning disabilities aren't caused by lack of educational opportunities, such as frequent changes of schools, poor school attendance, or lack of instruction in basic skills.
Difficulty with basic reading and language skills are the most common LD. LD may be inherited. Girls are affected as frequently as boys. Kids don't outgrow or get cured of LD. With support and intervention, kids with LD can be successful in learning and life.
With the right support and interventions, your child can succeed in school and become a successful adult. Speak with them openly and acknowledge their learning difficulties. Remind them that they are intelligent, but have a different way of learning. Identify their strengths and talents, and encourage them to develop them. Coach them on strategies that will help them through their learning challenges. Be available to help them with homework. Be a role model — read a book or newspaper or write a letter while they study. Appreciate them for their uniqueness, special qualities, and contributions (Children With Learning Disabilities No. 16).
Understanding learning disabilities: What you can do
Understanding a learning disability is the first step to finding a solution. Most kids have some problems in school at one time or another. Some struggle with a specific subject while others have trouble relating to a certain style of teaching. Sometimes, learning disabilities are blamed on lack of motivation, immaturity, or behavior problems. But if your child has significant ongoing problems with the basic skills like reading, writing, and arithmetic, then he or she may have a learning disability. Learning disabilities affect at least 1 in 10 schoolchildren. Learn as much as you can about the different types of learning disabilities. Seize the opportunity to make an enormous difference in this student's life.
Learning Disabilities - Learn More!
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