Understanding Learning Disabilities: Types and Support Strategies

What is a Learning Disability?

A Learning Disability is a brain-based disorder that is often diagnosed in school-aged children and adolescents. Learning Disabilities can affect an individual’s ability to read, write, do math, and even communicate. Individuals identified as having a Learning Disability by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) often have difficulty listening, speaking, reading, writing, spelling, or performing mathematical calculations.  

According to the National Center for Learning Disabilities, of the 13% of the U.S. school-age population who received special education services during the 2020–2021 academic year, 34% received services for having a Specific Learning Disability (SLD). Further, more than half of these students were identified as having Dyslexia, which is one of the most diagnosed learning disabilities.

The Impact of Learning Disabilities:

School can be an especially stressful place for students with an undiagnosed learning disability. These children might find themselves having to work twice as hard to keep up with their peers. They might also experience low self-esteem due to poor academic performance and may even attempt to avoid school and homework altogether. Therefore, early identification of a learning disability is important to ensure that all children are provided with the appropriate support and intervention strategies.  

There are many different types of learning disabilities, and the earlier they can be identified, the better.  We will discuss some of the most common types of learning disabilities, as well as treatment and support options.

Common Types of Learning Disabilities: As supported by research conducted by Walden University and Learning Disabilities Association of America, the the most commonly diagnosed learning disabilities are described below. 

1. Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a language processing disorder that impacts reading, writing, and comprehension. Symptoms often include spelling difficulties or abnormalities (e.g. letter or number reversals), trouble with reading comprehension, reading fluency, and poor phonological processing.

2. Dysgraphia

Dysgraphia involves difficulty with writing and includes poor handwriting and difficulty putting one’s thoughts onto paper. Oftentimes, children with Dysgraphia will periodically “rest their hand” during writing exercises.

3. Dyscalculia

Dyscalculia, or sometimes known as “math dyslexia,” involves having trouble with understanding math concepts, numbers, and reasoning. Individuals with Dyscalculia may struggle with performing mental math functions, as well as recognizing patterns in numbers and telling the time.

4. Auditory processing disorder

Auditory processing disorder (APD) involves difficulty processing sounds, which often includes confusing the order/ unable to filter different sounds.

6. Nonverbal learning disabilities

Nonverbal learning disabilities (NVLD) involve difficulties in decoding nonverbal behaviors or social cues. These individuals may struggle with understanding body language, facial expressions and tone of voice.

Support and Intervention Strategies

As previously noted, early identification and intervention is important when it comes to learning disabilities. Below are some of the most commonly used and effective strategies for intervention:

If a child is identified by their school as qualifying for special education services for a specific learning disability, they will likely receive an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP will be designed using input from the child’s teachers, parents, administrators, and other professionals to address the child’s specific needs.

Other interventions may include the use of assistive technology such as online or taped textbooks which read aloud along with the student.

Small group and one-on-one instruction can be beneficial for students with a learning disability, as it allows for more individualized assistance from the teacher which can increase understanding and reduce stress.

Classroom modifications or accommodations for students with learning disabilities may include being provided with extra time to complete assignments, taped tests, or preprinted study sheets.  

Mental Health Therapy is an important tool in developing strategies for overcoming frustrations, reducing stress, increasing self-esteem, and building confidence in one’s abilities.

Parent and caregiver involvement is an important way to minimize the negative effects of a learning disability. Parents can show support for their child by:

Communicating with the school when their child is experiencing difficulties or frustrations.

Providing a quiet, calming space for their child to complete their homework. It is also helpful to remain nearby incase the child requires assistance or support.

Praise the child for completion of work rather than for good grades alone. This can help motivate the child to complete their schoolwork despite experiencing frustrations.

Seeking assistance from a qualified professional such as a Learning Disability Specialist, a Speech-Language therapist, an Occupational Therapist, or a mental health therapist may be beneficial depending on the specific needs of your child.

At Hays Behavioral Health Group, our experienced clinicians are able to conduct comprehensive evaluations to identify the presence of a learning disability early on. They can also provide interventions supported by research to address the emotional, behavioral, and other difficulties that are associated with a learning disability. 

Ready to take the next steps toward change? Call our office at 281-882-3706. We look forward to working with you!