Children are constantly struggling to engage in the learning process, such as reading, writing, or doing simple calculations. It could be a ...
Children are constantly struggling to engage in the learning process, such as reading, writing, or doing simple calculations. It could be a sign that they have a learning disorder, Mom.
Initially, it may be difficult to determine whether a child truly has a learning disorder or simply needs more time. However, typically children with learning disorders have been experiencing these difficulties for a long time before being diagnosed.
Parents also need to know the types of learning disorders in children, including their symptoms and ways to overcome them. Seek immediate consultation with a specialist to diagnose and determine the appropriate therapy to support the child's learning process.
What is a learning disorder in children?
According to Mayo Clinic, a learning disorder occurs when the brain receives and processes information in an unusual way. This prevents someone from acquiring and using skills effectively.
In general, learning disorders affect a child's ability to read, write, calculate, use or understand language, socialize, or learn other skills that do not involve words.
What causes learning disorders?
Factors that may contribute to learning disorders include:
1. Family history
Having a biological relative, such as a parent, with a learning disorder increases the child's risk of experiencing a similar disorder.
2. Problems during pregnancy
Learning disorders are often associated with poor fetal growth during pregnancy, including exposure to alcohol or other hard drugs. Additionally, learning disorders are also considered to be related to premature birth and/or very low birth weight.
3. Emotional trauma
Emotional trauma typically involves highly stressful experiences that disrupt a child's psychological well-being. If any of these traumatic events occur during early childhood, they can affect brain development and increase the child's risk of having a learning disorder.
4. Physical trauma
Head injuries or diseases of the nervous system may also have an impact on the development of learning disorders.
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What are the types of learning disorders in children?
In general, there are several common types of learning disorders in children, including:
1. Dyslexia
Dyslexia is one of the most prevalent learning disabilities that affects individuals of all ages, including children. This disorder affects reading skills and language processing. Some symptoms of dyslexia include:
- Reversing letter positions when reading
- Difficulty with phonological awareness (the ability to break down words into their component sounds)
- Difficulty understanding what is being read
- Late speech development
- Difficulty learning new vocabulary words
- Having difficulties with visual processing
- Difficulty with spelling, copying text, and comprehending reading materials
2. ADHD
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a child's ability to pay attention, control impulsivity, and regulate their levels of hyperactivity.
ADHD is quite common and can also affect adults. However, it is usually diagnosed most frequently in children.
ADHD makes it difficult for children to concentrate, leading to their attention easily shifting from one thing to another, including in the classroom. Many children with ADHD face disciplinary sanctions due to perceived misbehavior, but this is actually because they cannot control their actions.
Symptoms of ADHD include difficulty paying attention, impulsivity, hyperactivity, and others such as:
- Inability to sit still
- Being disorganized or forgetful
- Difficulty focusing on one thing
- Lack of motivation
- Frequent mood swings and emotional outbursts
3. Dyscalculia
Dyscalculia is a learning disability that affects mathematical or numerical skills. It can make it difficult for children to understand mathematical concepts, including performing arithmetic calculations and solving other math-related problems.
Many people may not enjoy math, but eventually, they can understand it with enough practice. However, individuals with dyscalculia struggle to grasp even the most basic mathematical concepts.
Other symptoms of dyscalculia include:
- Difficulty with basic arithmetic operations (such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division)
- Difficulty with more complex mathematical skills (such as algebra and geometry)
4. Dysgraphia
Dysgraphia is a learning disability that affects a person's ability to write. It includes difficulties with spelling, writing legibly, or expressing thoughts in written form.
This condition can be caused by various factors, including neurological conditions, developmental delays, or difficulties with fine motor skills. Symptoms of dysgraphia may include:
- Difficulty with written expression
- Illegible handwriting
- Taking a long time to write
- Struggling to organize thoughts into clear sentence structures
- Poor grammar
- Problems organizing pages, chapters, and books
How to manage learning disorders in children?
According to Healthy Children, learning disorders cannot be instantly overcome. However, there are many ways to help children and parents manage these issues and learn and develop in different aspects of life.
Some "instant" methods, such as specific vitamin supplements, have not been scientifically proven to be effective. Therefore, if you suspect that your child has a learning disorder, consult a doctor immediately.
A pediatrician can evaluate developmental delays and other conditions that may contribute to a child's learning disorder.
If necessary, a pediatrician can also refer to a specialist in neurodevelopment, developmental pediatrician, pediatric neurologist, or child psychologist. All referrals will be tailored to the child's symptoms, conditions, and individual needs.
In addition to working with teachers and pediatricians, parents can also support their child's learning process by:
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1. Focus on the child's strengths
All children have things they excel at and other things they find difficult. Identify the child's strengths and help them learn to utilize them.
For example, if a child struggles with writing but excels in music or sports, make sure to provide support when they perform well in those areas to maintain their enthusiasm for learning.
2. Develop social and emotional skills
The difference in the learning process compared to peers can make children feel sad, angry, or withdrawn. Support your child by providing love and support.
Explain that these challenges are something they need to face because their brains may work a little differently. Try to find other activities that focus on personal development to build the child's self-confidence.
3. Discuss the future
Help your child plan for adulthood by encouraging them to consider their strengths and interests. This includes supporting hobbies and other activities that are more suitable for the child in their current condition.
Remember, every child learns and thinks differently. Therefore, support these developmental differences with appropriate responses. The sooner you understand what is happening with your child, the sooner a diagnosis can be made, and appropriate actions can be taken.
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