LDs are the result of neurological-based problems that affect the way that the brain receives, processes, stores, and responds to information: the brain’s cognitive functioning. LDs are not curable, they are lifelong. But, they can be managed with the proper help.

Dyslexia is a reading disability that affects how one interprets sounds, letters and words. It can affect general vocabulary skills as well as one’s reading speed and efficiency. Symptoms of dyslexia include late speech, difficulty with handwriting, and difficulty rhyming words. Dyscalculia affects an individual’s ability to process numbers, and can manifest itself as a problem with memorization skills, as well as a difficulty sequencing patterns or numbers. Symptoms of dyscalculia include difficulty counting and memorizing arithmetic concepts. Dysgraphia is a LD of writing, and can be the result of either a physical motor in-efficiency, or a mental difficulty in understanding and processing certain forms of information. Individuals with dysgraphia tend to demonstrate poor handwriting skills, illegible and/or irregular writing, and have difficulties communicating through the written form.

Trouble spelling. Avoidance of reading and writing. Difficulty summarizing. Trouble with open-ended questions. Poor memory. Difficulty with abstract concepts. Trouble expressing ideas. Mispronunciation. Easily distracted. Mix up right/left or poor sense of direction. Trouble following directions or completing tasks. [3] X Trustworthy Source Understood Nonprofit organization dedicated to resources and support to people with thinking differences, such as ADHD or dyslexia Go to source

Do you or your child perform daily tasks in a different way each time? This can be an indicator of a LD. Do this over an extended period of time.

These “learning problems” are not considered disorders. It is very difficult to distinguish between learning disorders and learning problems.

Celebrities Tom Cruise, Danny Glover and Jay Leno all have dyslexia, and have actively campaigned to raise awareness for the disability. Historians and researchers suspect that these historical figures may have also had some form of learning disability: George Patton, Walt Disney, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson and Napoleon Bonaparte.

This is not a diagnosis, but rather, only the first step of several that are required to be properly diagnosed. Being properly diagnosed includes initial consultation, screening, and then final diagnosis.

Screening is relatively inexpensive. It consists of observation, an interview, and brief testing. Mental health clinics and state rehabilitation agencies can provide initial consultation. Mental health clinics and local universities oftentimes provide assessments that are priced on a sliding scale.

After your advocate is finished evaluating all of the information, you will need to meet with him or her again in order to discuss the results.

This report can also be used to make a request for special accommodations at school or work.

Are there any terms that you do not understand? Are you unclear as to what to do next? Or what your advocate expects?

Once enough information has been collected, the teacher or learning specialist will provide your son or daughter with a series of learning strategies or supplemental learning activities. A school cannot collect information about your son or daughter without your written consent.

Do the expectations of the learning plan accurately address your son or daughter’s needs?

Take action to implement these changes as quickly as possible, like getting a tutor for your child or trying different learning strategies. If your student gets targeted help, they may be able to overcome whatever they’re struggling with. [11] X Expert Source Laura Reber, SSPSchool Psychologist Expert Interview. 15 May 2020. You can try these strategies without having a formal diagnosis. In fact, in some cases, having a diagnosis of a disorder or disability can make it harder for a student to overcome their learning difficulties, so if you can intervene, it may be better in the long-term. [12] X Expert Source Laura Reber, SSPSchool Psychologist Expert Interview. 15 May 2020.

Your son or daughter’s teacher will be able to provide you with more information regarding the process. The “Individuals with Disabilities Education Act” ensures free-screening for your child. Formal screening will include a series of tests and interviews, and the committee may suggest special education.

You have the right to be part of this process! If you have specific learning goals for your child, they should be discussed at the post-evaluation meeting.

The “Individualized Education Program” may have a timeline of development. This is only a guide, not an exact rule.

LDs are very difficult to diagnose, which means that re-evaluations are not uncommon. Because symptoms tend to over-lap, even highly trained experts can misdiagnose a specific type or kind of LD.