Learning Disabilities (www.helpguide.org)
Key Symptoms of Learning Disabilities:
Preschool signs and symptoms of learning disabilities
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Problems pronouncing words
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Trouble finding the right word
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Difficulty rhyming
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Trouble learning the alphabet, numbers, colors, shapes, days of the week
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Difficulty following directions or learning routines
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Difficulty controlling crayons, pencils, and scissors or coloring within the lines
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Trouble with buttons, zippers, snaps, learning to tie shoes
Ages 5-9 signs and symptoms of learning disabilities
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Trouble learning the connection between letters and sounds
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Unable to blend sounds to make words
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Confuses basic words when reading
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Consistently misspells words and makes frequent reading errors
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Trouble learning basic math concepts
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Difficulty telling time and remembering sequences
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Slow to learn new skills
Ages 10-13 signs and symptoms of learning disabilities
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Difficulty with reading comprehension or math skills
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Trouble with open-ended test questions and word problems
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Dislikes reading and writing; avoids reading aloud
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Spells the same word differently in a single document
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Poor organizational skills (bedroom, homework, desk is messy and disorganized)
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Trouble following classroom discussions and expressing thoughts aloud
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Poor handwriting
Assessments
The diagnosis and testing process for learning disabilities
Diagnosing a learning disability is a process. It involves testing, history taking, and observation by a trained specialist. Finding a reputable referral is important. Start with your child's school, and if they are unable to help you, ask your insurance company, doctor, or friends and family who have dealt successfully with learning disabilities.
Types of specialists who may be able to test for and diagnose learning disabilities include:
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Clinical psychologists
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School psychologists
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Child psychiatrists
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Educational psychologists
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Developmental psychologists
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Neuropsychologist
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Psychometrist
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Occupational therapist (tests sensory disorders that can lead to learning problems)
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Speech and language therapist
Featured Resources & Articles
Learning Disabilities & Disorders
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From: www.helpguide.org
National Center for Learning Disabilities