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Education
November / December 2007
What Are Learning
Disabilities?
By Michelle Rexach
For many parents, the term “learning disability” or “learning
disorder” can sound scary at first. But it is important to know
that a learning disability has little to do, if anything, with a
person's intelligence. Did you know for example, that many
successful icons such as Walt Disney, Alexander Graham Bell, and
Winston Churchill all had learning disabilities? A learning
disability is a specific problem affecting the brain's ability to
receive, process, analyze, or store information. These problems
can make it difficult for a student to learn as quickly as others.
There are many kinds of learning disabilities and most students
with a LD have more than one kind. Some LDs can interfere with a
student's ability to concentrate or focus, causing their mind to
wander. Other LDs can make it difficult to read, understand what
is being read, write, spell, or solve math problems. In any case,
it is crucial to detect LDs as early on as possible. Early
detection will ensure that the child does receive the proper help
he or she needs to succeed in school and in life .
What Are the Signs of Learning Disabilities?
As important as it is to make detection as early as possible, LDs
are relatively hard to diagnose, especially before the age of 7.
Most LDs become more noticeable by second grade when specific
academic skills, such as reading and writing, are expected to be
mastered. Some of the most common warning signs to look for are:
difficulty speaking, reading, writing, figuring out math problems,
communicating verbally, or paying attention in class. However,
some LDs are diagnosed as early as first grade, when a parent or a
teacher notices a child can't follow directions for a game or is
struggling to do work he or she should be able to do easily.
Another issue that can make LDs hard to diagnose is when the child
develops sophisticated ways of “covering up” their learning
issues, like for instance, overcompensating areas of weakness with
areas of strength. In these cases, the LD won’t become evident
until high school or even at college level, when schoolwork - and
life - gets more and more challenging.
The most common and best-known learning disability is dyslexia,
which is defined by trouble recognizing or processing letters and
the sounds associated with them. Some dyslexics may be able to
read or write just fine, but they have difficulty with other
aspects of language such as comprehension skills. Others may have
difficulty with non-verbal LDs involving making sense of visual
details like numbers and signs on a blackboard. These often
confuse mathematical signs (plus sign with the sign for division
for example) or will make frequent mistakes with similar numbers
(such as confusing 13 with 31). In higher grades, abstract
concepts like fractions and algebra equations may be especially
difficult to master for students with nonverbal learning
disabilities.
Making LD diagnosis more complicated is a behavioral condition
called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) which very
often is associated with LD. Students with ADHD are often easily
distracted, have trouble concentrating and some are excessively
active or have trouble controlling their impulses. These behaviors
may potentially cover up, be confused with, or enhance a LD.
How Can I be Sure My Child Has a LD?
Just because your child has trouble studying for a test doesn't
mean they necessarily have a LD. There are as many learning styles
as there are individuals. Some early academic problems in school
can be overcome by doing and practicing more or with remedial
tutoring. Some kids are just naturally slower readers or learners
than others, but they can still perform within the expected level
for their age. Other times, what seems to be a learning disability
is simply a delay in development and will eventually catch up with
- and perhaps even surpass - his or her peers.
If you are concerned about your child’s performance in school, my
advice is to begin by sharing your thoughts with the teacher.
Gather as much information as you can, such as samples of his
schoolwork and tests. Next, rule out vision or hearing problems.
If your child’s academic problems are not due to a physical issue,
consult a psychologist and have him tested. There are specific
tests to help diagnose LDs, pinpoint learning strengths and
weaknesses and reveal areas where the child may need additional
help.
The important thing is to NOT ignore the problem. A LD will not
disappear by itself. Remember that early detection is essential,
but it’s never too late to get help. The resources are readily
available to assist you in this process. For more information,
consult your school counselor or local school psychologist.
Michelle is founder of Psycoeducational Services of Tampa Bay. She
has been in practice for over 6 years, starting in San Juan, PR.
She is an author of three books on the subjects of discipline,
giftedness and divorce, and also offers seminars and conferences
nationwide, including South and Central America. For more
information contact Michelle at Psychoeducational Services of
Tampa Bay. (813) 514-8293
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