Specific learning disabilities are a neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterised by the persistent difficulty with academic tasks such as reading, writing and mathematics.

Specific Learning Disabilities is an umbrella term used to define several types of Learning disabilities like:

Dyslexia (Difficulty with reading): Children with dyslexia have trouble with reading. They have difficulty joining letters and reading them. They often avoid activities that involve reading. They may have language learning difficulties.

Children with Specific learning disabilities may exhibit:
-Poor academic performance
-Slow writing
-Multiple spelling mistakes

Learning Disabilities are most often caused by:
-Genetic reasons
-Neurobiological problems

Your child will be assessed by a child psychologist to determine if they have a specific learning disability. The child’s history will be taken and a psychiatric interview will be done. The child’s academic abilities and learning will be assessed using standardised tools..

Your child will need remediation and special education in order to help cope with the condition.

If the child has been diagnosed with dyslexia, the child will have to attend reading programs that the therapist has advised.

Specific learning disability is not a disease and therefore it is not possible for the child to completely be free from the disability. But with regular and timely interventions, your child should be able to lead an independent life.

You can certainly help your child in handling their condition. It is advised to create an accepting environment for the child and try not to guilt or shame their condition.

The government of India will provide a disability certificate for Specific learning disabilities under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.

Break down complex activities that bore your child into smaller units. These small units must be easily achievable, this will keep your child going.

Based on the strengths of the child, they can be advised to use assistive devices like:

Text-to-speech systems

Speech-to-text systems