Children who perceive and understand the world through the lens of learning and processing challenges often face unique struggles in school. These difficulties can impact their confidence and motivation to succeed.
While many children find certain academic tasks tough at times, persistent challenges may signal an underlying learning disorder that requires thoughtful attention and support.
A learning disorder arises when the brain processes information differently, causing a gap between what is expected and what a child can perform.
It’s vital for parents and educators to work together, offering the encouragement and resources children need to build self-assurance and excel academically.
Request an AppointmentTypes of Learning & Processing Disorders
Learning and processing disorders can affect many areas such as reading, writing, math, speech, and social skills.
Reading Disorder: Dyslexia
Reading disorders involve difficulties in connecting spoken language with written letters. When differentiating sounds is hard, it may result in dyslexia.
Children with dyslexia often face challenges like:
- Spelling words incorrectly
- Reading slower than peers
- Difficulty understanding the text
- Trouble remembering what they read
- Struggling to draw conclusions from reading
Writing Disorder: Dysgraphia
Writing requires coordination of vision, movement, and processing. When a child experiences dysgraphia, they may have:
- Handwriting that is slow and hard to read
- Difficulty recalling letter shapes and lines
- Frequent spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors
- Challenges expressing abstract ideas in writing
Learning Disorder in Math: Dyscalculia
Dyscalculia affects math skills, causing difficulties such as:
- Understanding number concepts
- Solving math problems and learning rules
- Using math symbols correctly
- Organizing and recording numerical information
Speech and Language Disorder
Speech and language disorders affect the ability to use and understand spoken or written words but often spare visual learning. Common issues include:
- Stuttering or difficulty speaking smoothly
- Articulation errors with certain sounds
- Childhood apraxia affecting lips, jaw, and tongue movements
Nonverbal Skills
Children with nonverbal learning disabilities may have strong verbal abilities but struggle with:
- Perceiving object location
- Understanding abstract ideas
- Reading social cues and emotions
- Physical coordination difficulties
- Attention, planning, and organizing tasks
- Handling advanced reading or writing tasks
Causes of Learning & Processing Disorders
Though there’s no single cause for learning and processing disorders, certain factors may increase risk in childhood:
- Family history of learning disorders
- Premature birth or low birth weight
- Exposure to alcohol or drugs during or after pregnancy
- Emotional trauma or abuse in early childhood
- Head or nervous system injuries
Recognizing Learning & Processing Disorders in Your Child
Many children face academic challenges, but persistent symptoms lasting over six months despite tutoring may point to a learning disorder.
Watch for signs such as:
- Trouble reading, spelling, writing, or math
- Difficulty understanding or following instructions
- Short-term memory problems
- Poor coordination in sports or walking
- Frequently losing personal items
- Struggling to finish homework on time
- Acting out during school tasks
Evaluation Process for Learning & Processing Disorders
Without proper support, children with learning difficulties may face challenges in higher education and mental health, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem.
If you suspect learning issues, request testing through school or private evaluation. This includes vision and hearing tests and assessments of processing skills.
A psychologist will also review teacher feedback, academic performance, and screen for conditions like ADHD, anxiety, or depression.
Treating Learning & Processing Disorders
Children with learning disorders often improve noticeably with a tailored approach and solid support from family, school, and therapy.
Helpful techniques include:
- Tutoring: Extra assistance from specialized tutors to build skills and organization.
- Individualized Education Program (IEP): Customized learning goals and school services.
- Occupational Therapy: Helps improve writing, math, and speech abilities.
- Medication Management: May address related mental health concerns like anxiety or depression.
- Complementary Treatments: Diet adjustments, vitamins, and visual exercises.
Comprehensive Mental & Behavioral Health Care for Your Child
At Sammy Kim, MD, we know your child’s emotional wellness is just as important as their physical health. Our caring team includes a skilled pediatric psychologist dedicated to supporting your child through mental and behavioral health challenges.
We offer same-day visits at our clinic in Encino, CA. To schedule, please call (818) 789-0941 or contact us online.
Request an Appointment