What are learning disabilities?
Learning disabilities are a form of neurological disorders and impacts the way a person learns and makes it more challenging to do so. Neurological disorders in the case of Learning Disabilities essentially means that the person’s brain is ‘wired’ differently. People who have learning disabilities are capable of learning, but rather may have different ways in which they learn. Often they also have certain limitations that require more attention and support to help them learn and reach their full potential.
It is important to understand that learning disabilities are not ‘curable’. However, there are ways to limit the impact these concerns have on a child’s education. Also, it cannot be stressed enough, that a person who has a learning disability is not ‘stupid’. Many children who have learning disabilities are often labelled as such and it can severely impact their self-esteem. In actuality, many people with learning disabilities have an intelligence quotient as high or even higher than many of their peers such as Albert Einstein and Bill Gates.
Learning Disabilities have been shown to affect between 5% to 15% of children across the world, socio-economic class, race, and languages. Learning Disabilities are present from childhood but can become more noticeable when the child begins school. Children with Learning Disabilities can also display behavioural and social difficulties. Early intervention can allow your child to thrive and get the most out of their education. Furthermore understanding that your child may have a learning difficulty is important so that you can advocate for them: for example with the proper documentation, your child may be entitled to extra time during examinations, a reader or writer when they are giving examinations, the use of a calculator and much more.
Signs to Look For
Learning disabilities are usually present from an early age but can be difficult to identify. As parents, if your child displays some of these signs, they may have a learning difficulty.
Before school, the child may have delayed milestones, such as delayed walking and talking. They may have trouble learning new words and may have difficulties naming or remembering letters or the names of colours.
Once schooling starts it can become much clearer that a child may have difficulty with their learning.
Learning Disabilities includes Dyslexia which includes difficulty spelling. Dysgraphia, which involves difficulties with handwriting and Dyscalculia, which is difficulties associated with mathematics.
For more information about Learning Disabilities, please click here.