What is a learning difficulty?
Kids can have learning difficulties in reading, numeracy, writing, or literacy which means they can have trouble processing, retaining, and understanding information. Learning difficulties can develop for a variety of reasons such as a history of interrupted learning, health issues, or regular absences from school.
How can we help our kids with learning difficulties improve? With extra support and targeted instructions.
What is a Specific Learning Disorder?
A Specific Learning Disorder is a type of neurodevelopmental disorder that is caused by differences in early brain development.
Some common Specific Learning Disorders include:
- Dyslexia: Trouble reading, spelling, and writing.
- Dyscalculia: Trouble with math concepts and calculations.
- Dysgraphia: Trouble with writing, including problems with handwriting, spelling, and organising thoughts.
Neurodevelopmental disorders can often be present throughout a person’s life but types of support and interventions can help reduce the impact of these disorders on everyday functioning.
Note: Often children and teenagers with neurodevelopmental disorders have average or above-average intelligence. Their struggles lie in how they process or manage information, not in their potential.
Learning difficulties in children
How to tell whether your child has a learning difficulty
Some ways to tell whether our child has a learning difficulty or disorder include:
By age 5
Delayed speech and language development:
This can mean difficulty pronouncing words correctly, using grammar properly, or learning to speak in full sentences with an average of 4-5 words.
By age 6
Trouble following instructions:
This can mean they might struggle to follow more than one instruction at a time or could have difficulty remembering sequences of steps. E.g., Forgetting steps as part of their bedtime routine; regularly forgetting to take something that is needed at school; or only completing one task when asked to do two or three.
By age 6-7
Difficulty with fine motor skills:
They might struggle to hold a pencil, cut with scissors, or button clothing.
Struggles with reading and writing:
If a child has trouble recognising letters, understanding letter sounds (phonemic awareness), or forming letters, it could signal dyslexia or another reading-related difficulty.
Difficulty with math:
They could struggle with recognising numbers, understanding counting, or having trouble memorising basic math facts.
By age 7-8
Short attention span:
Children with attention difficulties might have trouble focusing on a single task, resulting in incomplete work or constant distractions.
Anxiety or distress:
This could include experiencing anxiety or distress about going to school or doing their homework.
Low self esteem:
A child may express low self-confidence about their learning.
