How to Detect a Learning Disorder in Your Child

Millions of children are affected by learning disorders, and unfortunately, many are undiagnosed or go untreated.  Although it can be very difficult to determine whether or not your child may have a learning disorder, it is possible to spot some of the early warning signs.

 

A good indication of a possible learning disorder in your child are developmental problems – for instance, if your young child has problems with basic motor skills, such as picking up a pencil or buttoning a shirt, a learning disorder might be to blame.

 

Failure to understand certain concepts may be another signal of a learning disorder.  Does your child have difficulty telling time?  Is your child unable to tie their own shoelaces, when their brothers or sisters could do so effortlessly at the same age?

 

Two marks of a learning disorder which often accompany one another are too much energy and difficulty paying attention.  Your child might be extremely hyperactive, which could cause him or her to have trouble paying attention while performing everyday tasks, such as sitting in class.  Math will be a struggle for him or her, as well as learning abstract skills such as algebra or adding.

 

Unless you have specialist training in child psychology, it’ll be impossible for you to diagnose any learning disorders your child might suffer from.  If you suspect your child is having difficulty learning, the first thing you should do is speak with your child’s teachers.  They will be able to give you a fuller picture on what your child’s skills are like and which they feel he or she needs to improve on.  You’ll then need to take your child to a person who is able to diagnose and treat any issues, such as a certified child therapist or a speech and language therapist.

 

Remember that all hope is not lost for your young child.  Many gifted youngsters have symptoms which mirror those of a learning disorder, and only prompt diagnosis and therapy can help you tell the difference between the two.  For such youngsters, encouraging their strong points can do wonders for their self-esteem.  For instance, your child may have a complete inability to process numbers or do math, but may be a virtuoso on the piano if given the chance to learn.  The key is to give them enough variety in their lives to work on the things they’re good at.

 

The bottom line is that learning disorders are very treatable and most children grow up to learn to cope with this disability throughout his or her life.

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