Learning Disabilities

What are Learning Disabilities? A learning disability is defined as a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using language, spoken or written, which may manifest itself in an impaired ability to listen, think, speak, read or do mathematical calculations. The term does not apply to students who have learning problems that are primarily the result of hearing or motor disabilities, intellectual disabilities, emotional or behavioral disorders or environmental, cultural or economic disadvantage (Federal Register, Volume 57, No 189, September 29, 1992).

How are Learning Disabilities diagnosed? - A qualified School Psychologist, trained in psychoeducational assessment, determines diagnosis of a learning disability. Clients at the Speech, Hearing, and Learning Center are administered a test of intelligence to assess academic potential; and various skills of visual and auditory processing and academic achievement are also measured and evaluated. Because learning disabilities and Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder are often co-existing, measures of attention are usually incorporated into the full evaluation.

How do I know if an evaluation is necessary? - Although individuals vary in development and the acquisition of various skills, a consistent pattern of behavior that lags behind one's peers over time may indicate the need to seek professional consultation regarding a possible learning disability.

The following checklists provided by the National Center for Learning Disabilities provide a list of warning signs for a possible learning disability.  Click for list
Preschool	Elementary School	Adults

 

For more information about learning disabilities, the following
websites may be helpful.

National Center for Learning Disabilities
Coordinated Campaign for Learning Disabilities
Learning Disabilities on Line
Learning Disabilities Association

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