Know about Specific Learning Disabilities

A. What are specific learning disabilities?

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

B. Types of Specific Learning Disabilities

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.

C. Signs and symptoms of Specific Learning Disabilities

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

D. Causes of Specific Learning disabilities

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

E. Screening and assessment of Specific learning disabilities

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..

F. Treatment of Specific learning disabilities

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.

G. Curability of Specific learning disabilities

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.

H. What can parents do for a child with Specific Learning disabilities

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.

I. What government aids are there for Specific Learning disabilities?

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