Learning Disorder

There are several types of learning disorders, involving a child’s ability to read, perform arithmetic, or write.  For instance, a reading disorder can impact a child’s ability to process basic sound structure involving phonemes which impacts a person’s ability to read sounds and therefore words.  This is commonly known as dyslexia.  Dyslexia is thought to be a processing disorder, which often impacts writing as well.  Other reading disorders usually involve poor comprehension or delayed skills that prevent a child from meeting age-appropriate academic demands.  A math disorder and disorder of written language are other common learning disorders.  Some children present with more global challenges involving the majority of core academic areas.  Although learning disorders can occur in isolation, they are often associated with other cognitive impairments including reduced intellectual functioning, attention-deficit, and language disorders.  However, with appropriate intervention targeting the child’s specific needs, improvements in learning and academic functioning very often occur.  Although these children CAN continue to progress in their learning, they may do so at a slower rate than their peers.