A learning difference is not the same as an intellectual disability. However, learning differences can sometimes make it difficult for a child to demonstrate their ability.

For a variety of reasons, approximately twenty percent of children who are motivated to learn and can demonstrate age-appropriate learning behaviors will require specialized instruction using evidence-based strategies in the areas of reading, spelling, printing, or numeracy:

• Developmental

  • a student in any particular grade can be up to twelve months younger than their peers

• Neurological

  • direct instruction is required because the brain processes information differently

    • examples include language processing differences such as dyslexia (reading/decoding), dysgraphia (printing/encoding), dyscalculia (math/numeracy); and executive functioning

  • adaptations or modifications are required because the brain processes information differently

If you are concerned about your child's ability to demonstrate their understanding, consider these first steps:

• vision

• hearing