Problems with learning

Some children have a specific learning difficulty or specific learning difference. These tend to be spotted when the child reaches school age because school focuses on things that may be harder for the child; reading, writing, listening, speaking, reasoning and arithmetic. Children with a specific learning difficulty may find it harder to learn in one particular area than would be expected given their general intelligence. Early detection of problems, having the right assessment in place and giving help at an early stage are all very important.

Some signs that children may have some learning difficulties are: making little progress in spite of great effort, needing constant guidance for every stage of a task and having a poor memory for spoken or written material. If they have strong general knowledge but have difficulty reading this may indicate dyslexia whilst difficulties with writing may indicate dysgraphia. Dyscalculia is usually thought of as a specific learning difficulty which makes it hard to process numbers.

Dyslexia should be recognised as a spectrum disorder, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. In particular, children with dyslexia have difficulties with: phonological awareness, verbal memory and verbal processing speed.

Children with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): may show disruptive or inappropriate behaviours, have a short attention span, be restless or constantly fidget, and they may be easily distracted. These children may benefit from learning support.