Are you concerned that your child might have a learning disability? A learning disability is a condition that effects how your child reads, does math and processes information. Researchers theorize that learning disabilities are caused by malfunctions in the brain. Having a learning disability is a life-long condition; however, receiving early intervention for your child’s learning disability will help. Children who have learning disabilities may need special servicesin school.
Here are some warning signs to look for if you are concerned your child has a learning disability.
Preschool Warning Signs
Children who have problems with speech including pronunciation or learning new words
Problems following simple instructions
Difficulty with rhyming
Difficulty learning the alphabet or learning to count
Problems with gross motor skills such as walking, skipping, running or balancing
Struggles with learning to tie his shoes, button or zipper his clothes, or other self help activities
Difficulty understanding or answering questions
Problems with fine motor skills such as not being able to grasp or manipulate small objects, use scissors, color or paint
Difficulty learning colors, shapes or other concepts
Difficulty staying focused and paying attention
Trouble making friends or interacting with peers
Easily angered or frustrated, may throw temper tantrums
Early Elementary School Warning Signs
Slow at learning how letters and sounds correspond
Difficulty communicating or speaking in complete sentences
Difficulty with reading or spelling
Difficulty learning basic sight words
Struggles with learning to tell time
Poor handwriting
Confuses math signs such as +, -, ¸, x, =
Trouble memorizing math facts such as times tables
Difficulty concentrating or completing work on time
Unable to follow multiple directions
Problems with vocabulary or comprehension such as confusing basic words or using the same word for everything (ex, calling all bread foods a bun, instead of using appropriate distinctions such as muffins, cake, toast, etc)
Slow to learn new skills or only wanting to learn one way to solve a problem
Struggles with organization and self-esteem
If you are concerned that your child has a learning disability you should seek an evaluation. Contact your local school system or your pediatrician for information on having your child evaluated.