Learning disorders are usually hiding in plain sight. But, most parents and teachers don't have the tools to recognize them or address them.
Here are some signs and symptoms of a possible learning disorder by age range.
PRESCHOOL SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- Pronunciation problems
- Difficulty rhyming
- Difficulty following directions or routines
- Slow vocabulary development
- Trouble finding the right word to use
- Delayed motor skills development
GRADES K-4 SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- Slow to learn the connection between letters and sounds
- Confuses basic words
- Unable to blend sounds to make words
- Makes consistent spelling and reading errors like reversals, transpositions, inversions, and substitutions
- Slow to learn new skills
- Trouble learning basic math concepts
- Impulsive, difficulty planning
GRADES 5-8 SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- Struggles with reading comprehension and/or math skills
- Poor handwriting
- Dislikes reading and writing and will avoid reading aloud
- Difficulty with open-ended questions and word problems
- Trouble following and participating in classroom discussions
- Poor organizational skills
- Slow or poor recall of facts
- Trouble with spelling and letter sequences
If you feel like your child may have a learning disorder, the first place to start is to get a formal evaluation. This can be done by your school district or by a private psychologist or neuropsychologist.