Types of Learning Disabilities

Reading Disabilities:

This is often referred to as dyslexia. Between 2 and 8 percent of school-aged children have a reading disability. Some of the common signs of a reading disability include: difficulty associating or recognizing sounds that go with letters and separating the sounds within words, difficulty sounding out words, trouble rhyming, problems understanding and using words and grammar, and poor spelling.

Writing Disabilities:

Writing disabilities, called dysgraphia, affect a person’s ability to express their thoughts in writing. Some of the common signs include: awkward or tight grip on a pencil, illegible handwriting, speaking the words out loud while writing, omitting words in sentences, difficulty with grammar and syntax structure, avoidance of writing tasks, problems articulating thoughts and ideas into written words, and difficulty organizing and planning thoughts when writing.

Mathematical disabilities:

Dyscalculia is a broad term for many different types of disorders that involve problems with math. Some signs include: slow to develop counting and math problem-solving skills, difficulty recalling number sequences, computing problems, problems with time concepts, poor sense of direction, and difficulty completing mental math. A child with math LDs might be able to complete math problems one day, but seem lost and confused when facing the same problems the next day.

Learning disorder can vary in severity:

• Mild: Some difficulties with learning in one or two academic areas, but may be able to compensate

• Moderate: Significant difficulties with learning, requiring some specialized teaching and some accommodations or supportive services

• Severe: Severe difficulties with learning, affecting several academic areas and requiring ongoing intensive specialized teaching