Specific learning disability (SLD) is a disorder that can manifest itself in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and mathematical calculation. Dyslexia is an example of a specific learning disability. SLD is often difficult to diagnose and often gets mixed up with autism spectrum disorders or attention deficit disorders.
Some myths have developed over the years about specific learning disabilities and children with SLD that continue to make it difficult to give children the help they need.
The child will grow out of it
A dyslexic child will most likely grow up and remain dyslexic. These disabilities will not disappear or resolve on their own, but with help, children can circumvent and work around their specific disabilities. This belief that children can outgrow their learning disabilities cause many children to underperform and suffer esteem issues that exacerbates their problems learning.
Children with SLD have low IQ
Children with SLD are often of average to above average intelligence. Having a specific learning disability does not automatically mean a child is slow or has low intelligence. They have a disability that prevents them from learning normally in any number of ways whether it is by writing, speaking or reading. Some children only have a single disability whereas others may have multiple issues to contend with.
Due to the many misconceptions, myths, and lack of knowledge surrounding SLD, many children go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed leading many children to underperform, fail, or drop out believing they are unable to learn like their peer.
Find out more about specific learning disabilities, and how to develop individual education plans to help children overcome their difficulties.
College of Allied Educators offers our Advanced Diploma in Special Education and Diploma in Learning Disorders Management & Child Psychology programme to help you understand your child or the child in your care to more effectively help in their learning and development.
For a FREE COURSE PREVIEW
CALL US at 6223-2743
EMAIL your enquiry to ENQUIRY@ICAE.EDU.SG
or Register for your free preview below: