“Keeping up with the other kids in class, is a lot easier if you know your ABCs”
What are learning difficulties?
Learning difficulties describe medical conditions that affect a child’s ability to read, write, speak, listen and get along with others. Many kids with learning difficulties have average or above average intelligence with no physical problems and yet struggle to keep up with others of the same age in learning and daily functioning.
Experts suggest that learning disabilities are caused by genetics, problems during pregnancy and birth (e.g. low birth weight, prematurity), medical conditions and injuries to the brain after birth (e.g. head injuries, brain infections). While the causes are not clear, treatment options are available and have been proven to be effective.
Often, children with learning disabilities are gifted and/or have another co-existing condition such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). For these reasons, it is important for these children to be assessed by a team of specialists with experience in helping children.
Some common types of learning difficulties
• Reading Disability (Dyslexia)
• Math Disabilities (Dyscalculia)
• Developmental Coordination Disorder (Dyspraxia)
• Auditory and Visual Processing Disorder
Diagnosis and Treatment
The first step is for the parents to spot a consistent pattern of difficulty. The child should then be assessed by a psychologist, who would also examine schoolwork samples and gather observations from parents and schoolteachers. The psychologist then suggests a customized education plan to help the child overcome his or her difficulties. Our team of child development specialists also works closely with schoolteachers to suggest changes to the school environment.
What’s important to note is that learning disabilities do not go away. Children with learning difficulties usually do not just “grow out of it”. This life-long condition cannot be “cured” by medication, therapy, or expert tutoring.
Children with learning difficulties often experience frustration, anxiety and disappointment as he or she struggles to meet daily expectations or challenges. Left unrecognised and untreated, children with learning difficulties often develop low self esteem and isolate themselves.
The good news is, early detection and accurate assessment when combined with effective interventions have been proven to help children with learning difficulties reach their fullest potential.
Make an appointment
If you think your child has a learning difficulty, please email us for appointment at firstname.lastname@example.org
To help us make the most of your appointment, parents are invited to fill in the intake form and fax it to 6397 6701 or email to email@example.com
Download intake form here
The information which you provide will be kept strictly confidential. Your permission will be sought if any disclosure of information is needed.