Learning Disabilities: An Overview

Identifying learning disabilities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 6-10% of children ages 5-17 have been diagnosed with a learning disability. There are several different kinds of learning disabilities, so their symptoms can vary. For details on different kinds of learning disabilities, visit the Learning Disabilities Association. Common symptoms of learning disabilities can include trouble paying attention, difficulty remembering, poor hand-eye coordination, difficulty with letters and numbers, or being easily distracted. It is important that you discuss your child’s behavior and performance with his teacher beginning as early as preschool and communicate any concerns. If you suspect your child might have a learning disability, you should talk to the school about getting an evaluation. Evaluations are free of charge and are conducted by professionals. For more information on special education evaluation and services, see One Tough Job’s fact sheet on Special Education.

Learning disabilities will not go away, but your child can be given extra help through tutoring and/or special education services at the school so that her academic skills can improve. With appropriate identification and intervention, your child can achieve the same goals as her peers. Bright, hard-working, and motivated students with learning disabilities can graduate from high school and go to college and beyond, if they wish. For more information on learning disabilities, visit the National center for Learning Disabilities Parent Center.

This article has been reviewed by Dr. Betsy Busch, MD