Is your child very bored with schoolwork? Does he give you excuses when you give him homework? Or does the teacher often complain, "Your child is not paying attention in class, he is very bored"? As a mother or father, when you hear things like this, you may feel very sad. "Why is my child the only one like this?" You may think. But this may not be due to the child's laziness or lack of intelligence. Perhaps the reason for this may be a 'learning disability' as we speak.
Simply put, what is a learning disability?
A learning disability is a problem that affects the way someone takes in and processes information. Simply put, it's something that affects the way the brain works. It's not to be confused with low intelligence. Children with learning disabilities are often very intelligent. But the way they see, hear, and understand things is a little different from other people.
Think about it this way, we are not all the same. Some people write with their right hand, some with their left. Similarly, some people's brains process information differently. This difference can make it difficult for them to focus on a lesson in class or study for an exam. But remember, with the right help and strategies, they are very capable of overcoming these challenges.
The important thing is that a learning disability is not a disease, it is a condition. And it is not the fault of the child or the parents.
Types of learning disabilities and their characteristics
There are several types of learning disabilities. And even the same type can affect each person differently. Another important thing to note is that conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorders should not be confused with learning disabilities. They are completely different conditions.
Let's take a look at the main types of learning disabilities and their common characteristics.
| Type of Disorder | How it affects and common characteristics |
|---|---|
| Dyspraxia | This affects the child's motor skills, which are movement and coordination. For example, they may bump into themselves, drop things, have difficulty eating with a spoon, tie shoelaces, or button shirts. As they get older, they may also have difficulty writing and typing. |
| Dyslexia | This affects language comprehension. Reading and writing are very difficult. Letters appear reversed (e.g. 'b' and 'd'), words are forgotten, lines skip while reading. Grammar and comprehension problems also occur. Sometimes it is difficult to match words when speaking. |
| Dysgraphia | This affects the child's writing skills. The handwriting is very poor, almost illegible. Spelling is often wrong. It is very difficult to put what is in your mind on paper. |
| Dyscalculia | This affects mathematical abilities. When you are young, it is difficult to recognize and count numbers. As you get older, it is difficult to do simple calculations (addition, subtraction) and remember things like multiplication tables. |
| Auditory Processing Disorder | This is not a problem with hearing. It is a problem with the way the brain processes sounds. When someone is speaking, it is difficult to distinguish their voice from the surrounding noise. It is difficult to follow what is being said. Words that sound the same (like 'kala' and 'kala') cannot be distinguished. |
| Visual Processing Disorder | This is not a problem with your eyesight. It is a problem with how your brain interprets what you see. It is difficult to read. It is difficult to distinguish between two objects that look the same. Hand-eye coordination is poor. For example, it may be difficult to catch a ball. |
What are the signs that suggest a learning disability?
These conditions can be difficult to diagnose because there is no one-size-fits-all list of symptoms that will suit every child. And many children try to hide their difficulties. Maybe all you notice is that your child is constantly complaining about homework or saying they can't go to school.
However, be aware of the following features:
- When asked to read or write, they show no interest, just give in.
- Difficulty remembering things (e.g. lessons, phone numbers).
- They work very diligently. When the other children finish their work, they are still where they started.
- Difficulty following instructions.
- Inability to maintain focus on one task.
- Difficulty understanding complex (abstract) ideas.
- Lack of attention to detail, or unnecessary concern about details.
- Lack of social skills to work and play with other children.
- Disturbing others in class.
If you suspect that your child has these symptoms, it's best to talk to your child's teacher and your family doctor about it. You can ask for your child to be evaluated.
You may need to see several specialists to get an accurate diagnosis. This may include a clinical psychologist, occupational therapist, or speech and language therapist. They can perform various tests and assessments to help you get to the root of the problem.
Things you can do as a parent
It's normal to feel overwhelmed when you learn that your child has a learning disability. The process of making a diagnosis can be overwhelming. But remember, you are your child's greatest strength.
1. Be well aware of this.
First, find out what your child's disability is and how it affects their learning. Find out about the treatments and support available. Then you can actively participate in choosing what your child needs.
2. Be your child's advocate
You are the child's strength. Talk to the child's teachers and principal at the child's school and try to develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) that can provide special attention and support for the child. There are ways to help children like this in the school system. Research them and work to maximize the benefits for the child.
3. Take care of your child's health habits
Good sleep, a nutritious, balanced diet, and plenty of play and exercise are essential for a child's mental and physical health. These things also indirectly help a child's learning.
4. Pay attention to your child's mental health
Learning disabilities can have a big impact on a child's self-esteem. They may think things like, "I can't," "I'm stupid." So be aware of your child's thoughts and changes in behavior. If they are constantly sad or angry, have changes in their sleep or eating patterns, or no longer enjoy things they used to enjoy, talk to your doctor about it.
Take-Home Message
- A learning disability is not a problem with a child's intelligence or laziness. It's a difference in the way the brain processes information.
- Be on the lookout for symptoms such as difficulty reading, writing, and math, as well as lack of attention.
- If you have any doubts, first consult your family doctor (doctor). He or she will refer you to the necessary specialists.
- Your love, support, and encouragement are the greatest strength a child can have.
- With proper identification and proper support, a child with a learning disability can overcome any challenge and succeed.
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