Learning disability and learning difficulty may sound similar to the ear but the two terms are not interchangeable. There is a substantial difference between children suffering from either.
This makes a considerable difference in the course of treatment or help that one extends towards the child.
While schools and educators have been trained to know the difference, parents too must know about the same. It will help you get the right attention to your child’s academics as well as holistic development, especially in school.
So what is a learning difficulty and how different is it from a learning disability? Let’s take a look.
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What Is a Learning Difficulty?
Learning difficulty is a condition that creates an obstacle to a specific form of learning. For instance, if the child can’t cope with math as quickly as other children largely due to understanding the concept, it’s a learning difficulty.
This, in no way, affects the child’s intelligence quotient (IQ).
A child suffering from dyslexia may be categorised as someone with a learning difficulty. This is because dyslexia impacts the child’s ability to specifically read, write and spell.
However, the child can work on other day-to-day tasks without a problem. They also do not need constant care and support.
What Is A Learning Disability?
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In contrast, a learning disability is when the child’s learning and intelligence are affected across all areas of life. In this case, the child may be unable to make calculations outside of the classroom even for the simplest of things.
So for instance, a child suffering from Down’s Syndrome would be someone with a learning disability. Since the disorder impacts all areas of the child’s life including their health, IQ, life skills and physical condition.
A child with Down’s Syndrome may also need support and care on a regular basis. However, in most cases, they can take care of themselves and live a normal life.
Learning Disability vs Learning Difficulty: The Difference
To further demarcate learning disabilities from learning difficulty, here’s your quick guide about how they differ fundamentally and affect individuals differently.
| Learning Difficulty | Learning Disability |
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This occurs when kids find it difficult to learn one or more basic academic skills. It has a non-categorical definition. |
Learning disability has a categorical definition and is based on a diagnosis. |
| The National Health & Medical Research Council (NHMRC) estimates that about 10 to 16 per cent of the global population have learning difficulties. | The National Health & Medical Research Council estimates about 2 to 4 per cent of the global population have learning disabilities |
| Learning difficulties can be addressed with intensive education intervention. | Learning disabilities are usually lifelong and pervasive spilling over into the day-to-day functioning of the individual. Children with learning disabilities may not readily respond to intensive education intervention. |
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Children with learning difficulties may underachieve academically for reasons such as sensory impairment behavioural or psychological issues. They may also face dialect or language issues, especially if English is not their first language. They can also suffer from high absenteeism; ineffective instruction or inadequate curricula. |
Children with learning disabilities struggle with academic achievements as a result of underlying neurodevelopmental disorders. This is due to genetic, cognitive and environmental factors. Irrespective of the instructions or interventions, a learning disability will continue to exist. |
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Educational services or support groups use ‘learning difficulty’ for special intervention in primary and secondary education. |
Universities, as well as educational and clinical psychologists, use the term ‘learning disability’ to differentiate students in some areas of school education. |
| A learning difficulty raised from physical, emotional or environmental causes may not be recognised under the People with Disabilities act. | Learning disability is legally recognised under the Ministry for Social and Family Development. |
Learning Difficulty Symptoms in Children
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Identifying potential learning difficulties in children is crucial for providing timely support and interventions. Keep an eye out for these common signs that may indicate a child is facing challenges in the learning process:
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Reading Challenges: Struggles with reading fluency, comprehension, or difficulty in recognising and decoding words.
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Difficulty in Writing: Poor handwriting, trouble organising thoughts on paper, and challenges in spelling and grammar.
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Mathematical Issues: Difficulty understanding and applying mathematical concepts, struggling with basic arithmetic, and problems with sequencing numbers.
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Attention Problems: Inability to stay focused, easily distracted, and challenges in sustaining attention on tasks.
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Delayed Speech and Language Development: Difficulty in expressing thoughts verbally, limited vocabulary, and challenges in understanding or following instructions.
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Poor Memory: Difficulty remembering and recalling information, impacting both short-term and long-term memory.
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Executive Function Challenges: Struggles with planning, organization, time management, and completing tasks independently.
It’s important to note that children may exhibit a combination of these symptoms, and early identification is key to providing effective support.
How to Support a Child with Learning Difficulty: Practical Tips
A learning disability will have a significant disadvantage despite having academic potential on the same level as their peers.
However, parents and educators can help children with learning disabilities by introducing intervention and support, which will be a key necessity in their academic journey.
Meanwhile, children with learning difficulties need programs that offer appropriate support and evidence-based instruction to be able to catch up with their peers.
Navigating learning difficulties with your child can be challenging, but with the right support, they can thrive. Here are some tips to help you make a positive impact:
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Open Communication: Foster an open and supportive dialogue with your child. Encourage them to share their feelings and experiences.
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Individualised Learning Plans: Work with educators to create personalised learning plans tailored to your child’s unique strengths and challenges.
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Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate small victories. Recognising achievements, no matter how small, boosts confidence and motivation.
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Provide Consistent Support: Consistency is key. Offer a reliable and stable environment, ensuring your child feels secure in their learning journey.
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Encourage Multisensory Learning: Incorporate various senses in learning activities. Hands-on experiences and visual aids can enhance understanding.
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Explore Learning Styles: Identify your child’s learning style, whether it’s visual, auditory, or kinesthetic, and adapt teaching methods accordingly.
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Promote a Growth Mindset: Encourage a positive attitude toward challenges. Emphasise the value of effort and persistence in the face of difficulties.
Do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher and paediatrician to plan how you can help the child overcome this. Remember, every child is unique, and patience, understanding, and tailored support can make a world of difference.
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