What is a Learning Disability?

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Summary

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A learning disability is a problem with how someone learns and understands information. It makes it harder for them to read, write, do the math, or know what they’re being taught. With the right help, people with learning disabilities can still be successful.

 

 

Frequently Asked Question

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What causes learning disabilities?

Learning disabilities can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, brain injury, environmental factors, or a combination of these. The exact cause is often unknown.

 

Can learning disabilities be cured?

There is no cure for learning disabilities, but with proper support and accommodations, individuals with learning disabilities can be successful in school and in life.

 

What can be done to help individuals with learning disabilities?

Support and accommodations such as specialized instruction, technology, and individualized educational plans can help individuals with learning disabilities be successful in school and in life. Ongoing support and advocacy are also important for helping individuals with learning disabilities reach their full potential.

 

Scientific Definition

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A learning disability is a condition that affects how a person learns and understands information. It can make it hard for someone to read, write, do the math, or know what they’re being taught. People with learning disabilities have trouble processing information the way most people do, even though they are just as smart as everyone else. It’s not because they’re lazy or not trying hard enough. It’s a real issue that affects how their brain works. But with the proper support and resources, people with learning disabilities can achieve academic success and in life. They need a little extra help to reach their full potential.

 

 

Treatment for Learning Disability

Treating the symptoms of learning disability involves a combination of strategies and interventions to address specific challenges. Here are some effective approaches to consider:

  • Individualized education plan (IEP): Collaborate with the school to create a tailored education plan that includes accommodations, modifications, and support services.
  • Specialized instruction: Seek specialized instruction, such as Orton-Gillingham or multi-sensory techniques, to enhance reading and writing skills.
  • Assistive technology: Utilize assistive tools like text-to-speech software, speech recognition programs, or organizational apps to support learning and organization.
  • Multisensory learning: Engage in hands-on activities that involve multiple senses to reinforce learning.
  • Behavioral and emotional support: Address any emotional or behavioral challenges through counseling, therapy, and teaching coping skills.

With appropriate support and interventions, individuals with learning disability can make significant progress in their academic and personal lives.

Symptoms of Learning Disability

The symptoms of learning disability can vary, but they generally involve difficulties in specific areas of learning. Here are some common signs to watch out for:

  • Reading difficulties: Trouble with reading fluency, comprehension, or recognizing words.
  • Writing challenges: Difficulty with spelling, grammar, organizing thoughts, and expressing ideas in writing.
  • Math struggles: Problems with understanding and applying mathematical concepts, memorizing basic facts, and solving math problems.
  • Attention issues: Difficulty staying focused, being easily distracted, or exhibiting impulsivity.
  • Memory problems: Trouble retaining and recalling information, especially when it comes to instructions or sequences.

If you or your child experience these challenges, seeking support from professionals can lead to effective strategies and interventions that can help overcome these difficulties. Goally, the tablet solution, supports kids with learning disability through interactive apps for life and language skills development. It includes digital visual schedules, AAC, gamified learning, emotional regulation training, and social skills videos. With Goally, children with learning disabilities receive targeted support for growth.

 

This post was originally published on Feb. 2, 2023. It was updated on July 8, 2023.