Early Childhood Warning Signs

Possible Signs of Learning Disabilities for Early Childhood

Be aware of warning signs for learning disabilities. If your child displays regular patterns of these characteristics, have him/her evaluated. Early intervention can make a big difference in the ability to succeed in school. Each trait needs to be assessed according to the child's age.

Language Development – Child has difficulty:

• Being understood when speaking
• Following simple directions

• Expressing wants or needs

• Putting words together into

phrases, uses words out of sequence
• Understanding directions

Physical Development – Child has difficulty:

• Using scissors, pencils, crayons

• With balance and coordination

• Focusing
• Making sense of what he sees

• Hearing

Social Development - The child

• Is overly aggressive or withdrawn

• Cries frequently and/or has sudden

mood swings

• Becomes overly upset when frustrated

If you have concerns regarding your child's development, first check with your family physician. For additional evaluation for infants up to age 3, check with the local Child Development Agency through Health and Welfare. For children ages 3 to 5, contact your local school district for information on free preschool screening evaluations offered in all districts. If evaluation indicates a possible learning disability, there is assistance available to you under the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

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