|
Learning disabilities are the result of differences in the brain that create
difficulties with specific types of learning, such as the ability to process,
store or produce information. Learning disabilities can affect a person’s
ability in the areas of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and mathematics.
One indicator of a learning disability is a distinct gap between the level of
achievement expected and what is actually being achieved. Difficulties with
social development skills and behavior may also be a sign.
Experts aren't exactly sure what causes
learning disabilities. Several external factors may be contributing factors.
- Heredity – it’s not uncommon to see people
with learning
disabilities have other family
members suffering from similar
difficulties.
- Problems during pregnancy and birth – illness,
injury, substance
abuse, lack of oxygen or other factors.
-
Incidents after birth - head injuries,
exposure to toxins or
malnutrition
may contribute.
Learning disabilities are lifelong and there is no cure. However, once they are
identified and treated, an individual can learn to overcome the disability and
achieve success in school and in life. The key to success is early intervention
with specialized teaching strategies.
It is estimated
that one in five children have some form of learning disability. If undetected and untreated, learning disabilities not only negatively impact
the individual, but will also negatively impact society as a whole.
- Children with learning disabilities are three times more
likely to
drop out of high school.
- 60% of adults with severe literacy problems have
undetected or
untreated learning disabilities.
- Learning disabilities are one of the most common obstacles
to
employment faced by welfare recipients. |
|
|
Common Signs of
Learning Disabilities
Learning Disabilities Checklist
Keeping record of your
child's behaviors.
(Copies available at LPLC.)
www.keepkidslearning.org
Links and resources for
parents to help support and teach their children who are struggling to
learn.
Click
here for more websites
that provide information on learning disabilities, help you
understand what your child needs, support you and your child, and
working with their school.
Click here for
information on early childhood warning signs.
For more information, please contact us:
Lee Pesky Learning Center
3324 Elder Street
Boise, ID 83705
208-333-0008
208-333-0888 fax
info@LPLearningCenter.org
|
