Having a Learning Disability means that your brain processes information differently than most people, or struggles to understand certain types of information. These differences can cause many difficulties in school or in daily interactions with the world.
These differences also mean that you see and experience the world differently: many individuals with significant struggles in one area also show tremendous talent and insight in another. Many famous people struggled through Learning Disabilities or ADHD: some of the greatest minds of our time were great because they saw the world differently.
These pages contain general recommendations and resources for children with Learning Disabilities to find ways to overcome their challenges and maximize their strengths. If you choose to have an assessment, you will receive an expanded, personalized plan for intervention and support.
General Resources for Learning Difficulties and Disabilities
- Understood.org is the website I go to first for practical information including easy-to-digest articles, apps to improve or support learning, and resources to get help.
- LDonline.org is a great resource for learning more after your child has received a diagnosis of a learning disability.
- Misunderstood Minds is a website with activities that give YOU the experience of having a learning disability to help you better understand your child’s experience. I can’t recommend this website enough.
Reading Difficulties
Dyslexia is a common term used to describe individuals with reading disabilities. The term literally means “difficulty reading”, but students may be challenged by reading for different reasons. It is important to know both how reading is breaking down as well as why.
The most common reasons for reading difficulties include: difficulty hearing individual sounds (phonological awareness), difficulty distinguishing individual letters (visual processing), and difficulties with working memory. Click here to read more.
Math Difficulties
Dyscalculia is a common term used to describe individuals with math disabilities. Similar to above, this term means “difficulty with calculations” and the reasons for these difficulties are varied. Students with math challenges may struggle from visual processing difficulties, challenges with working memory, lack executive functioning skills, or anxiety. Click here to read more.
Writing Difficulties
Dysgraphia is a common term used to describe individuals with writing disabilities. This term means “difficulty with making letter forms” and the reasons for these difficulties are varied. Students with writing challenges may struggle from visual processing difficulties, challenges with working memory, lagging executive functioning skills, or difficulties with the physical motor skills necessary for forming letters. Click here to read more.